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The ambassador made it clear that Berisha's case should not penalize the entire PD...
British Ambassador Alastair King Smith has given another blow to Berisha. He said that Britain wants an Albania where democracy flourishes and develops as a pluralistic democracy.
Smith focused on the figure of the leader of the Democratic Party, Sali Berisha, and his declaration non grata by Britain, where he emphasized that he feels satisfied that the Special Appeals Commission for Immigration made a decision in support of the Government's position on this matter.
" We have clearly stated that accountability is very important, whether related to criminality or corruption, and this is the policy we have and implement. We are very pleased that the Special Immigration Appeals Committee ruled in support of our Government's position on this matter. I trust you understand that our government's priority is the safety and security of the United Kingdom and its citizens, and we will vigorously defend any decision made in this regard. On the other hand, we continue to be Albania's long-term partner in supporting accountability and actions against criminality and corruption, and we will continue to do so. Also, we will strengthen the Special Prosecutor, the State Police and other law enforcement agencies in order for accountability and justice to become a reality for citizens ", he said to "ABC News".
He was then asked why there is not such a good relationship between Britain and the DP, which has been in opposition for more than a decade. The ambassador made it clear that Berisha's case should not penalize the entire PD.
" I do not share the same opinion with you, although it is true that we have a specific issue. In fact, the United Kingdom, myself, the British Embassy have always been in touch with the whole political spectrum, with all parts of the Democratic Party and other opposition parties, as well as the Socialist Party, and we have always been of the opinion that the UK should be engaged and have an impartial and balanced view of politics while trying to support democracy in the country. There will always be differences of opinion on supporting democratization. As the United Kingdom we are clear that we want to see democracy flourish, develop as a pluralistic democracy, and we want to have an effective and functioning Parliament with an effective opposition that is able to hold the government to account. This will continue to be our approach not only in Albania, but worldwide. But in this framework, there must also be accountability ," he said.
The ambassador answered the question if there will be other "non grata" besides the leader of the Democratic Party, Sali Berisha from Britain. Without revealing details, Smith said that all necessary measures will be taken to help in the fight against corruption that Albania is facing.
" Our approach to these issues is necessarily balanced, as in other areas, and we have defined a long-term position that we will take all necessary measures to help with the fight against corruption and criminality as in the United Kingdom, for issues that affect the UK, but also around the world, and we will continue to do the same. These decisions are made at the highest levels of government and it is now up to the new Foreign Minister and the new Home Secretary to make such decisions, and we will continue to focus on accountability. Also, we want to continue to be a strong partner in support of the National Justice System, so that the rule of law system is really effective ," said the outgoing British ambassador.
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