Honorable Chair Ibrahimi, Distinguished representatives of Albanian justice institutions, EU colleagues,
It is an honor to be part of the Justice Day commemoration with all of you, here at the Pole of Justice. I am happy to observe that all the institutions borne or reconstituted in implementation of the justice reform are now functioning in a meaningful way. We all knew when Justice Reform was adopted four years ago that progress would not be easy, quick, or perfect. But thanks to your efforts and the support of the Albanian people, justice reform is moving forward, step by step. The institutions are now functioning, and you are beginning to deliver tangible results for the Albanian people.
The public should be the greatest direct and indirect beneficiary of the daily work of all the justice institutions and all those that serve there. Justice and the rule of law must serve the public. As leading members of Albania’s justice institutions, all of you have the honor and duty to serve the public. I would like to thank you for all your hard work to date as you’ve established or re-established your institutions and laid down the rules for moving forward.
We have come a long way, but there is more yet to do in order to meet the expectations of the Albanian public and to keep Albania firmly on the path to EU accession. Now it is time to show that the pain of justice reform is paying off; that you and your institutions are dedicated to true justice and the rule of law, not party or individual interests; that there is no place for corruption or corrupt actors in the justice system; and that Albanian justice can deliver fair and impartial justice for the Albanian people.
On May 10, 1913, the government of Ismail Qemali decreed the first legal act for the justice system in the newly independent Albania. 108 years later, Albania has a legal framework in line with the best international standards. The U.S. wants you to succeed. Albania needs you to succeed. We know you can succeed.
As you and your institutions fulfill your missions and further justice reform, rest assured that the United States will be at your side to support you through every step, krah per krah.