Republic of Albania

Office of the Prime Minister

                                                                                                                                           Tirana, 9 November 2023

Ahead of the 2023 Paris Peace Forum, in addition to the 6 November tweet on the developing situation in Gaza, H.E. Prime Minister Edi Rama makes the following statement:

Tomorrow, 10 November, I will join other world leaders in Paris to discuss ways to assist civilians and hopefully end the conflict in Gaza. As a UN Security Council member, but most importantly as a peace-loving multi-religious country, Albania is very concerned with the ongoing conflict and prolonged suffering in Gaza.

To reemphasize, Albania stands firmly with Israel against Hamas. However, we are also very disturbed by the destruction, civilian casualties and the suffering in Gaza.

In Paris, I will highlight that it is crucial to end this conflict before it spirals out of control. I will also emphasize that while Israel has an undisputed right to defend itself, it must do so in line with international humanitarian law. The prolongation of this conflict only feeds Hamas’s ambitions for chaos and a much wider conflict.

A negotiated cessation of hostilities is a must. In Paris, I will ask our host, President Macron of France, for his support to engage with other leaders for the following plan:

In exchange for an immediate ceasefire by Israel, the Arab League and Türkiye should secure the unconditional and safe release of all hostages held by Hamas.

Re-occupation of Gaza is unacceptable. Upon the release of hostages, Israel should withdraw all its forces from Gaza.

Following the horrific crimes committed on 7 October, there can be no political future for Hamas. Under a UN mandate, an international force led by the Arab League can temporarily assume control of Gaza, facilitating much-needed reconstruction and the transition of governing responsibilities from Hamas to the Palestinian Authority. Albania is willing to co-sponsor the necessary UN Security Council resolution.

Upon the cessation of all hostilities, the international community should commit to organizing an international donor conference to finance the reconstruction of Gaza.