Protests/ KASH, call for institutions for dialogue

2026-06-12 10:42:00, Aktualitet CNA

The Council of Albanian Ambassadors has reacted to the ongoing protests against the government.

MTEF has supported the right of citizens to peacefully protest in defense of national interests, public assets, the environment and the country's natural heritage.

MTEF emphasizes that the recent protests convey clear and legitimate messages, which deserve attention, dialogue and transparency from state institutions.

MTEF has called on state institutions, investors, local communities and civil society to engage in an open and constructive dialogue, in order to promote sustainable development, strengthen the rule of law and protect Albania's long-term interests.

"The Council of Albanian Ambassadors (CASA) expresses its support for the fundamental and democratic right of Albanian citizens to peacefully protest in defense of national interests, public assets, the environment and the country's natural heritage. The recent protests convey clear and legitimate messages, which deserve attention, dialogue and transparency from state institutions.

Only in this way can Albania fulfill the obligations arising from the European Union accession process, guaranteeing respect for private property and the legitimate rights of citizens, promoting a development model in cooperation and in service to the community, as well as opposing and preventing any corruptive attempts that undermine the integrity of these processes and public trust in institutions.

The MTEF assesses that these protests are not only related to the specific issue that prompted them. They also reflect deeper concerns, accumulated over the years in public opinion, related to the perception of widespread corruption, impunity and, in some cases, the political protection offered to individuals involved in various affairs of public interest. These perceptions have damaged citizens' trust in institutions and require serious reflection by all political and institutional actors.

The Council expresses concern about the way some of the protesters' demands have been handled and condemns any arrogant or dismissive approach to citizens' concerns. In a democratic society, listening to citizens' voices, public consultation and accountability are an integral part of responsible decision-making.

MTEF supports strategic foreign investments that bring economic development, jobs and modernization to Albania. However, any such investment must be based on full transparency, strict respect for the law, environmental protection and guaranteeing the national interest.

Especially when it comes to areas of strategic, coastal or ecological importance, it is essential that decision-making processes are transparent, consulted with the public and affected communities, and accompanied by clear guarantees for the protection of sovereignty, public property and national assets.

"MTF calls on state institutions, investors, local communities and civil society to engage in an open and constructive dialogue, in order to promote sustainable development, strengthen the rule of law and protect the long-term interests of Albania," the response states./ CNA