Statement by Albania at the 1470 meeting of the Permanent Council as delivered by Ambassador Eglantina Gjermeni  in response to the address of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe

Thank you, Madam Chair,

We warmly welcome Secretary General of the Council of Europe Marija Pejčinović Burić, to the Permanent Council

This address serves as a reaffirmation of our organizations’ shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

The Reykjavik Declaration has played a crucial role in invigorating the Council of Europe’s external engagement, fostering deeper political dialogue and collaboration with partners such as the OSCE. Our organizations and our commitments are stronger as a result of our continued coordination.

Our dedication to supporting the OSCE-Council of Europe coordination remains resolute, particularly in critical areas such as safeguarding human rights, promoting tolerance, and combating terrorism and trafficking. The establishment of the Register of Damage caused by the Aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine under the Council of Europe umbrella, along with the launch of the claim submission process, demonstrates our collective resolve to address and rectify injustice.

Furthermore, we extend our congratulations to the Council of Europe on the successful finalization of the draft Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law. This groundbreaking document, open to all countries in Europe and beyond, is a significant achievement and will undoubtedly contribute to our collective progress.

Madam Secretary General,

On behalf of my country, I express my deep appreciation for the invaluable contributions the Council of Europe has made in bolstering the pillars of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Albania actively participates in the Council of Europe through all its bodies, exemplifying our unwavering commitment.

As a former member of the Albanian delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly and rapporteur on enhancing women’s participation in political decision-making myself, I commend the Council’s role in advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Albania remains steadfast in its dedication to this cause at home and abroad, as evidenced also by our active engagement across all Council of Europe bodies.

We eagerly anticipate hosting forthcoming events in Tirana, including the Parliamentary Network of Women MPs and the PACE equality commission meeting, as these platforms will further advance gender equality and diversity in our countries.

The recent decision of PACE to close the monitoring procedure for Albania recognizes Albania’s transformative justice reforms, our fight against corruption, and Albania’s progress in the human rights and democracy. Albania’s commitment to the Council of Europe’s standards has been unwavering and our relentless efforts are finally yielding much awaited results.

Madam Chair, dear Secretary General, distinguished colleagues,

Albania wholeheartedly welcomes the Parliamentary Assembly’s recommendation for Kosova to join the Council of Europe.

This recognition of Kosova’s progress and potential is a significant step towards strengthening regional cooperation and stability.

The admission of Kosova to the Council will enhance its mission by upholding its core principles and values. Additionally, it will provide a platform to reinforce these principles within Kosova, fostering inclusivity and prosperity for all its citizens.

We earnestly hope that this recommendation will be valued by the Committee of Ministers in the upcoming Ministerial in Strasbourg, leading to Kosova’s admission as a new member on the Council of Europe’s 75th anniversary, joining 46 other member countries in the largest human rights organization of our continent.

Madam Chair, Secretary General, distinguished colleagues,

In these three quarters of a century, the Council of Europe has left an indelible mark on our world. This milestone serves as a poignant reminder of the Organization’s invaluable contributions to our daily lives. We honour its achievements and inspiring further progress towards a more just society.

Thank you Madam Chair.