Deeper economic integration and dialogue key to strengthening regional security, says Albanian Foreign Minister Bushati at OSCE Permanent Council

VIENNA, 3 November 2016 – Deeper economic integration, increased political association and dialogue are key to strengthening regional security and implementation of a common agenda, said Albanian Foreign Minister Ditmir Bushati as he addressed the OSCE Permanent Council today in Vienna.

Bushati recalled his country’s joining of the then CSCE 25 years ago and the promise of a Europe whole and free at that time. “Today, there is no denying that this OSCE vision is looking farther away. But the foundations of this vision, the Helsinki Final Act and the Charter of Paris are still valid,” affirmed Bushati. He said that citizens have rightfully not given up on expectations such as democracy based on human rights and equal security for all participating States.

“The commitment we made with regards to human rights, democracy, rule of law, protection of minorities and tolerance is at the very core of the OSCE. We are determined to make it work.” In this context, Bushati stressed that the OSCE was a platform that allowed to hold participating States accountable for shortcomings and he expressed his appreciation for the assistance and support that the OSCE and its field operations offer when it comes to implementing the OSCE commitments. Bushati emphasised Albania’s ongoing efforts of “undertaking crucial reforms, among which is a radical overhaul of the justice system.”

“Each of the participating States has something unique to contribute in the OSCE. For my country, I believe it is tolerance,” Bushati continued pointing to a heritage of multicultural understanding in Albania. Also he emphasised the experience in the Western Balkans with strengthening practical areas of co-operation to overcome rifts. “Strengthening connectivity has proven to be a key factor for political confidence-building and security in the region”, noted Bushati.

Bushati also focussed on the importance of arms control, including disarmament and confidence and security-building measures. “As Europe’s security order has severely been challenged,  increased transparency, cooperation and confidence become even more important,” Bushati said and called for a modernization of the Vienna document.

Turning to the crisis in and around Ukraine, Bushati said: “Respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity and independence of Ukraine is nothing more than what we owe under international law and the commitments undertaken in this Organization.”

Entire address of the Foreign Minister Bushati can be found here.