TIRANA, November 21 – Prime Minister Edi Rama and European Commission Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos held a joint press conference following the “Growth Plan – Our Road to the EU” Summit.

Rama said Albania will maintain and support judicial independence. In addition, he emphasized that protecting this independence remains a top priority. He added that the principle is essential for Albania’s integration into the European Union.

He described judicial independence as a historical achievement of recent years. Moreover, Rama noted that the reform process has introduced significant positive changes in institutions. At the same time, he said the process ended decades of impunity. However, he acknowledged that a new system faces challenges, including outdated reflexes and initial weaknesses of a young executive.

Rama stressed that the government will not respond to judicial measures with arbitrary actions. Instead, he confirmed that the administration will continue exercising strategic patience. Consequently, he said, Albania aims to uphold judicial independence even in complex situations.

Commissioner Kos said the European Union expects candidate countries to have a judiciary that guarantees legal certainty. She also underlined that courts must be respected and judicial decisions followed. In addition, Kos highlighted Albania’s progress in fighting corruption and strengthening the rule of law. She noted that a functioning and independent judicial system is crucial for citizens and the business sector.

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