Prime Minister Edi Rama praised the Venice Commission today. He highlighted its historic contribution to Justice Reform and the Vetting process in Albania.

Rama spoke at the opening of the conference “30 Years of Partnership and Progress: Albania, Council of Europe, and Venice Commission.” The event marks Albania’s 30th anniversary in the Council of Europe and the 35th anniversary of the Venice Commission.

He called the Commission a constant companion and a wise guide. “It helped us create a compass and stay on the right path,” Rama said.

According to him, Albania could not have launched the Vetting process without the Venice Commission. He noted that no other country has carried out a process with the same depth.

Rama added that even international professional circles initially questioned the process. However, the Venice Commission gained respect in all instances. Its opinions are now fully recognized internationally in matters of the rule of law and reform processes.

The Prime Minister emphasized the Commission’s ongoing role in Albania’s democratization. He said it helped transform the country from a post-dictatorship state into one ready to engage with the EU.

“Venice Commission and Albanian democracy are ‘birth partners.’ Both began in 1990,” Rama noted. He added that the Commission embodies Europe’s reunited values, while Albania’s democracy finally found its path.

Rama also stressed the Commission’s influence on Albania’s democratic development. He described it as a wise, impartial assistant for countries seeking high standards.

He highlighted the Commission’s contribution to Albania’s first democratic Constitution in 1998. Additionally, he noted its key role in Electoral Code improvements, strengthening democratic guarantees.

Rama concluded by calling the Venice Commission an irreplaceable partner. “It remains a quiet yet vital reference point for Albania. It helps us understand how to improve in all reform processes and changes,” he said.

/a.c/