20/01/2025• Communications, News• Bianka Hada
Honorable Madam Speaker,
Esteemed Deputies,
As we commence a new year and the parliamentary session, I wish for a new era of cooperation and dialogue in service to Albanians at home, in the Diaspora, and in the region.
Albania has already taken decisive steps towards European integration. The past year marked a historic milestone in our journey: the opening of technical negotiations with the European Union.
This important step in the integration process is the result of continuous efforts for progress and reforms, which not only required significant energy and dedication but also strengthened our resolve, confidence, optimism, and inspiration.
At every step, the key to success has been clear. It lies in constructive political dialogue and inclusivity.
The Albanian Parliament plays a vital role in achieving this grand objective.
It must contribute to deepening reforms that align our legislation with the EU acquis.
The Parliament’s role is also indispensable for improving the quality of justice and combating corruption, for welfare and economic and territorial development in respect of our natural resources, for healthcare, for strengthening education and scientific research at all levels, and for adapting to technological innovations and advancements.
These are just some of the main challenges, while many others remain to be discussed in the parliamentary chamber with clarity, argumentation, and cooperation to find solutions.
The undertaken reforms need to be followed step by step, services must be improved without losing focus, and priorities must not be neglected.
Continuous work on the rule of law, economic development, and social justice is a task to build a stronger, fairer, and more integrated Albania in the European family.
Esteemed Deputies,
Geopolitical situations remind us of the need for quality democracy, economic and political stability, and sustainable development, not just as goals in themselves but also in function of the role of Albanians as a factor of peace and stability in the region.
Albania and Kosovo as states, and all Albanians, can only be the most reliable allies in the region to the United States, NATO, and the European Union, because this is our historical duty.
Esteemed Deputies,
I appreciate that you have enabled the Albanian Diaspora to participate in the political life of the country and to contribute by voting for the general good.
The new parliamentary session coincides with the elections on May 11th. It is understandable that the political agenda of the elections is at the center of attention.
Elections are the most significant event in a democracy.
They test the maturity of political forces and institutions, so let us strive to provide the country with a fair and secure electoral process, where alternatives compete, where the voter is respected, where the vote serves to elect, where the winner reflects modesty and responsibility, and the loser self-restraint.
I invite you to conduct this process maturely, peacefully, and with respect for democratic values.
I am confident that we have all the possibilities for the elections to be conducted in accordance with the law and OSCE-ODIHR standards.
This is not an option; it is the obligation of the political class to the Albanian people.
The quality of the elections must transcend any division and prevail over any partisan interest.
This objective should be common and non-negotiable.
Esteemed Deputies,
Along with wishes for successful work in this new parliamentary session, let us welcome the opportunities that have opened on the horizon, build on the achievements that unite us, and be inspired by models that carry patriotism, vision, peace, and goodwill.
Thank you and best of luck!