Statement by  H.E. Eglantina Gjermeni, Ambassador, Permanent Representative

1540th PC, agenda item: Address by the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Mr. Alain Berset

Madame Chair,

I thank Secretary General Alain Berset for his address and for setting out a clear and ambitious vision for the Council of Europe at this critical moment for our continent. His leadership and long experience in public service offer a solid foundation for steering the Organization through the complex challenges Europe faces today.

The New Pact for Democracy in Europe is both timely and strategic. It recognizes that democracy is Europe’s first line of defence and that its renewal is essential to our collective security. Albania shares this conviction. Investing in democracy and investing in security are not competing choices they are mutually reinforcing commitments. Without democratic resilience, there can be no lasting stability; and without stability, democratic progress cannot endure.

In this spirit, we value the Council of Europe’s unwavering engagement in support of Ukraine. The establishment of the Register of Damage, the Claims Commission, and the work toward a Special Tribunal demonstrate the Organization’s ability to turn principles into concrete action. These mechanisms are essential to ensuring accountability and justice.

Albania stands firmly with Ukraine. On 15 October, our country formalized another financial contribution to the Council of Europe’s Action Plan for Ukraine. This renewed support reflects our consistent solidarity and our conviction that Ukraine’s recovery and democratic resilience are integral to Europe’s overall security.

Equally important is the need to strengthen cooperation between the Council of Europe and the OSCE. Their complementary mandates are vital in addressing the intertwined challenges of democracy, human rights, and security across the continent. Closer coordination between the two organizations enhances the effectiveness of our shared mission.

To mark the 30th anniversary of Albania’s accession to the Council of Europe, a conference was held in Tirana, co-organized by the Venice Commission and the Parliament of Albania. The event reviewed the progress of Albania’s democratic reforms and acknowledged the valuable support and expertise that the Venice Commission has provided throughout this enduring partnership.

Finally, Albania reiterates its principled and consistent support for the membership of Kosova in the Council of Europe. This step is not only long overdue, but fully aligned with the spirit and purpose of this Organization, to ensure that every person in Europe enjoys equal protection of rights and access to justice under the European Convention on Human Rights. Bringing Kosova into the Council of Europe would not only strengthen the protection of its citizens but would also reaffirm the Council’s role as a unifying force for human rights and democracy across the continent. It would make our collective commitment truly universal, ensuring that the values we defend apply equally, without exceptions or exclusions.

Dear Secretary General Berset, we wish you much success in your mandate leading the Council of Europe.

Thank you.