The President of the Republic, Bajram Begaj, delivered his speech at the opening ceremony of the new judicial year.

President Begaj said that this also marks the opening of a new chapter, of shared responsibility, adding that justice is the guarantee that gives meaning to the state.

"Justice is the guarantee that gives meaning to the state. This judicial year coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Justice Reform built with the support of partners. The reform was a necessary response to a deep crisis of confidence and created high expectations for justice. 10 years later, the results are visible," he said.

The President of the Republic called for an independent, functional and integrity-based judiciary that guarantees equality before the law and advances the process of Albania's integration into the EU.

"Only by delivering justice, gaining the trust of citizens, guaranteeing the rule of law, the rule of law, human rights, and strengthening institutions will we have sustainable progress on our path towards membership in the European Union."
"This is the only solution we have and the most important challenge for the institutions present in this room today, as well as all those who speak, act and decide in the name of the Constitution and the law."
President Begaj also stated that this judicial year should bring about a functional and sustainable justice. "The Constitutional Court and the High Court have an essential role in creating norms, unifying practices and guaranteeing legal certainty. The governance structures of the system: the High Judicial Council, the High Prosecutorial Council, the High Inspector of Justice, the Judicial Appointments Council and the School of Magistrates remain essential in the functionality of the justice system for self-management, transparency and accountability", declared the Head of State, who underlined the importance of coordination and inter-institutional cooperation in addressing the problems and the success of the justice reform.
While focusing on the independence of the judiciary, which he considered to be the fundamental axis of justice reform, the President of the Republic emphasized that judges must issue decisions without pressure or interference, guaranteeing effective, impartial justice in accordance with European standards. At the same time, he emphasized the importance of accountability in the exercise of this independence:
"Today, the judiciary is yours. The justice system has gained full autonomy. This independence is a major achievement, but independence necessarily goes hand in hand with responsibility. The functioning, integrity and credibility of the justice system are also, first and foremost, your responsibility. The independence of the justice system is the inalienable cornerstone of our constitutional order and the functioning of the rule of law."
In addition to respecting independence, President Begaj, during his speech, mentioned the challenges that justice institutions face. Expressing that he understands them, the Head of State brought to attention the importance of public trust in justice. He emphasized that the efficiency of the system, the results in the fight against organized crime and corruption, the avoidance of arbitrariness, the strengthening of standards and the success of self-control mechanisms constitute essential elements that guarantee citizens' trust in justice.
Listing the problems of case delays and the perception among citizens of a negative impact on life, rights, and property, the President of the Republic encouraged judges to put an end to these practices. "There is no room for transition in the institutions of law," said President Begaj, emphasizing that "Law is not negotiable. Delivering justice is both responsibility and professionalism, and a high act of statesmanship."
At the end of his speech, the Head of State guaranteed support for justice institutions and advocacy for citizens who expect functional, fair and equal justice for all.
"As President of the Republic, I will continue to strongly support the strengthening of the independence and functionality of the justice system, to support every initiative that goes towards strengthening justice institutions and preserving their integrity, but I will always remain a voice in clear defense of the interests of citizens who expect functional, fair and equal justice for all" - emphasized the President of the Republic.