TIRANA, February 12 – Minister of State for Public Administration and Anti-Corruption Adea Pirdeni said Albania stands at a critical stage in advancing negotiations. She spoke during the international competition for the Justice Center, which will serve as a new urban hub for justice institutions.

Pirdeni stated that Albania opened 38 chapters in less than 13 months. She noted that 22 months remain until December 2027, the agreed deadline with the European Commission to conclude negotiations.

She added that progress depends on the sustainability of systems in practice, not only on initial reform ambition. Meanwhile, she stressed that judicial infrastructure plays a key role in ensuring justice functions properly.

Pirdeni said the European Commission expects improvements in court infrastructure. She mentioned better courtroom conditions, proper judicial archives, and technology that ensures transparency in proceedings.

The minister referred to a modernization plan already submitted to the European Commission. Authorities have secured appropriate premises for the Court of Appeal.

Regarding financial support, Pirdeni said the 2026 budget allocates an additional 500 million Albanian Lek (ALL) for the justice system. She added that total support since the justice reform has reached 1.6 billion ALL.

She emphasized that the government supports digital infrastructure for justice. Pirdeni stated that authorities have launched an integrated case management system for courts and prosecution offices with budget support and European Union Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance funds. She said Albania will implement the digital justice system within 2027.

/a.p./