President Bajram Begaj called for cooperation, commitment and dialogue as Albania opened its new parliamentary session today.
Begaj urged political forces to work together even when they disagree. He said they should always focus on the country’s interests.
“Political mandates and beliefs differ, but our responsibility toward Albania is shared. I hope this parliamentary session will bring a period of cooperation in the service of Albania and all its citizens. It should bring Albania closer to the European Union, strengthen institutions and increase citizens’ trust in politics and the state,” the President said.
For Begaj, the opening of the new session also offers an opportunity to review achievements, identify key challenges and plan future parliamentary work more effectively.
“Albania now has great ambitions, while its society participates increasingly in public life. Citizens express their expectations, concerns and demands more openly. This reflects the vitality of a democratic society and shows that our democracy continues to develop,” Begaj said.
In this context, the President stressed that peaceful protests and the free expression of opinions form a natural part of democratic life.
“People will not always share the same views, and every demand will not receive the same response. However, it is encouraging when citizens’ voices enter public debate and institutions give them attention. Our shared challenge is to turn this civic energy and institutional commitment into dialogue that builds trust and helps find better solutions,” he said.
Meanwhile, Begaj argued that a consolidated democracy does not depend on the absence of differences. Instead, it depends on how institutions manage those differences.
“Political differences coexist with democracy, and Parliament must provide the space to express, debate and challenge them through arguments. Citizens expect Parliament to deliver quality debate, responsible political language, effective legislation and strong representation,” he said.
Begaj added that Parliament must become an institution where citizens can see parliamentary decisions produce concrete solutions. He called for a representative, functional and accountable Parliament.
Moreover, the President said Albania’s long-term interests require a vision that goes beyond daily political divisions.
“National security, the rule of law, economic development and citizens’ welfare, the strategic partnership with the United States and the European Union, the fight against organized crime and corruption, elections and territorial reform, as well as the country’s European future, require continuity and a sense of responsibility that brings all political forces together,” Begaj said.
Turning to European integration, Begaj stressed that everyone can contribute to the process.
He said Parliament must fully exercise its legislative and oversight roles. At the same time, the majority must turn commitments into results, while the opposition must provide oversight and alternatives. Independent institutions must act with professionalism, transparency, accountability and integrity.
Begaj also highlighted the role of civil society, universities, the media, businesses, young people and the Albanian diaspora in advancing the country’s European project.
According to the President, the European Union represents more than a diplomatic destination or political objective. For Albanian citizens, it also means confidence in reforms, stronger institutions and equal application of the law.
“Reforms that help us join the European Union also make Albania more democratic, fairer, more social, more functional and prouder for its citizens,” Begaj said.
Finally, Begaj highlighted the consolidation of justice reform, which he described as one of the Albanian state’s most important responsibilities.
He said SPAK’s results represent one of the reform’s major achievements. However, he stressed that the reform must deliver efficient justice based on European standards and make a real difference in citizens’ lives.
“An independent, impartial and integrity-based justice system is, above all, a guarantee for citizens,” Begaj added.
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