TIRANA, May 7 – Albania and France are deepening cooperation in the justice sector. Talks in Tirana focus on judicial reform, criminal legislation and the fight against organised crime during a visit by French Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin.
The issue featured in a joint press appearance with Albanian Justice Minister Toni Gogu. Gogu described the visit as an opportunity to present Albania’s progress after a decade of justice reform and efforts to strengthen institutional independence. He said Albania continues to work toward European standards through reforms that separate the justice system from political influence.
Cooperation between the two countries also covers revisions to the Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. It also includes efforts to strengthen professional capacity within the magistrates system. A renewed partnership between Albania’s School of Magistrates and its French counterpart formed another part of the discussions.
Darmanin described Albania’s justice reforms as ambitious and impressive. He said the rule of law remains essential for the country’s European Union integration process and confirmed France’s support through legal experts, magistrates and academic cooperation.
Both sides also discussed stronger coordination against organised crime, especially in the seizure and confiscation of criminal assets. Darmanin said some Albanian practices in this field could also serve as a model for France. The talks also covered cooperation in the penitentiary system and the exchange of information and intelligence ahead of the World Law Congress in Tirana in 2027.
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