TIRANA, Jan 19 /ATA/ President of the Republic Bajram Begaj underscored today the importance of collaboration between parliamentary parties to implement the electoral and territorial reforms, adding that ‘if cooperation comes to a standstill, the debate loses sight of our national interest: EU integration.'”
In a message to Parliament marking the start of the new legislative session, President Begaj stressed that the upcoming six months present crucial challenges for the country. He called for strong political will and heightened state-building awareness, emphasizing that every legislative initiative must contribute to strengthening the rule of law, improving citizens’ well-being, and advancing Albania’s EU accession.
According to the President, aligning legislation and prioritizing the European Union agenda must take precedence. Begaj stressed that this demands genuine responsibility, dedication, substantial reforms, and intensive effort.
“The parliamentary process in this regard cannot guarantee success if attention wavers, if parliamentary discourse loses its way, if cooperation comes to a standstill, or if the debate drifts away from our national interest and results are delayed. On our path to the European family, we have no time to waste, nor energy to squander,” Begaj added.
“Addressing the deputies, Begaj pointed out that citizens are calling for less conflict and more solutions. ‘They expect quality laws, governance oversight, and honest political debate. Each individual has their own responsibility in maintaining this balance. Democracy can only work when there is mutual respect and equilibrium,’ Begaj stated.”
The Head of State stated that this session faces the challenge of ensuring that politics reaffirms its commitment to justice. ‘Politics should be proud when justice takes action against corruption and organized crime, when it shows independence, integrity, and professionalism, and when citizens receive justice according to European standards,’ he remarked.”
President Begaj emphasized the importance of advancing electoral reform in the current parliamentary session. He said that the OSCE/ODIHR recommendations have highlighted crucial issues that must be addressed to improve Albania’s electoral standards. Begaj stressed the need for a comprehensive reform of the electoral framework, through inclusive consultations, and in line with international standards. He warned that delays in updating electoral legislation could jeopardize the integrity of future elections.
President Begaj also highlighted that another key milestone is the territorial-administrative reform, which hinges on the ability of all parties to engage in constructive dialogue and reach compromise. He emphasized that this reform must be guided by the highest interest of citizens, demographic shifts, and the need for dignified and equal public services and infrastructure in every unit, in order to make local self-governance truly effective and sustainable.
Begaj stated that “citizens need to see the Parliament in action and the government held accountable, but above all, they need this parliamentary process to be serious and responsible.”
He emphasized that parliamentary oversight is meaningful when it yields results, when institutions are set in motion, measures are taken, procedures are changed, and laws are improved.
President Begaj emphasized that a parliament should address the citizens’ most pressing issues through ethical, constructive, and cooperative political communication. He highlighted the need for greater focus on challenges such as demographics, social security, cybersecurity, natural disaster preparedness, and national security, urging increased legal and institutional attention to these areas.
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