The European Union Ambassador to Albania, Sofia Moreira de Sousa, visited Elbasan this Friday, where she attended the fourth meeting of the CoR-Albania Joint Consultative Committee.
Referring to recent developments in the country, the ambassador stressed that violence cannot be a means of expressing discontent, while emphasizing the responsibility of institutions to ensure that citizens’ concerns are heard and addressed.
Elbasan Mayor Gledian Llatja also described the violent protests as concerning, calling for dialogue and peaceful demonstrations. According to him, in a democracy, citizens have not only rights but also responsibilities.
A similar position was expressed by Antonio Mazzeo, Co-Chair of the CoR-Albania Joint Consultative Committee, who condemned violence while also addressing other issues related to local government.
Mazzeo stressed that territorial reform should be based on the functions and responsibilities of local authorities rather than electoral interests.
Regarding the case of Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj, he emphasized the importance of ensuring a fair legal process and judicial independence. Mazzeo also referred to a report by the Council of Europe’s Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, which raises concerns about the practice of prolonged pre-trial detention of mayors.
The fourth meeting of the CoR-Albania Joint Consultative Committee was held in Elbasan for the first time, focusing on the role of local government in the European integration process.
Elbasan’s selection as the host city is also significant because of its commitment to European climate policies. Elbasan is the first city in Albania to officially join the consortium implementing the European Union’s mission for 100 climate-neutral and smart cities by 2030.
Discussions focused on strengthening local institutions, transparency, and interinstitutional cooperation as essential elements in bringing the European integration process closer to citizens.
The post Student Protests: EU Ambassador Says Violence Cannot Be a Way to Express Discontent appeared first on Euronews Albania.
