TIRANA, February 12 – The Assembly of Albania approved today the preparation of a declaration supporting four former KLA leaders. The Prosecution in The Hague has requested a total of 180 years in prison for them.

Lawmakers described the indictment as shameful. They called the charges unprecedented. They argued that authorities have not applied similar charges to individuals accused of crimes from the Serbian army in Kosova.

Meanwhile, the Assembly tasked the Foreign Policy Committee with drafting the declaration. Igli Hasani and Tritan Shehu will prepare the text as representatives of the commission. Lawmakers said the statement should receive support from all political parties.

In addition, the Assembly referred to the indictment issued on Monday against the four KLA leaders. Members noted that prosecutors requested 180 years in prison. They stressed that no similar action has targeted individuals held criminally responsible from the Serbian army in Kosova.

Furthermore, the Assembly called for an urgent response. Lawmakers said the declaration should clearly state that Albania and Albanians cannot accept what they described as an attack against the liberation war of the people of Kosova and the Kosova Liberation Army.

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