Ambassador Gonzato participated on Friday in the joint annual meeting of the High Judicial Council and the High Prosecutorial Council on the occasion of the 111th anniversary of Justice Day, supported by the OSCE Presence in Albania and the “EU4Justice” project.
Ambassador Gonzato highlighted the achievements of the Justice Reform so far, emphasizing that “we cannot afford to take steps behind.”

“The achievements of SPAK must be irreversible. Any attempt to stand in the way of these results will come at the expense of the expectations that the citizens have,” Ambassador Gonzato said.
In his remarks, Ambassador Gonzato also said that Albania has marked an important milestone in its journey to consolidate the rule of law.

“The judiciary has reason to be proud today more than ever. Justice reform must be strengthened, consolidated and move forward to achieve results. These results should serve the citizens,” he said.
Drawing attention to the celebrations as part of the Europe Week, Gonzato said that the highlight is promotion of the essential values of the EU.

“The justice system plays a key role in consolidating these values. This is achieved through the independence and integrity of magistrates. Albania has taken important steps in all these areas and we cannot allow steps behind,” he emphasized.
According to the ambassador, it is necessary to strengthen the independence, efficiency and professionalism of the justice system, and all these efforts must also be associated with the appropriate financial and human resources.
“Much has been achieved with the Justice Reform, yet justice has a long way to go. The EU stands side by side with the new justice system and with the Justice Reform and we are committed to assisting the councils and other justice institutions in their work,” he said.
/sm/