Andres Pastrana: CDI stands strongly by the DP, has shown determination

CDI President Andrés Pastrana Arango expressed support for the Democratic Party in a video message broadcast during the DP's electoral meeting in Kavaja.

He said that the CDI stands strongly alongside the DP as, according to him, it has shown its determination in the transformative power of responsible governance. 

Andres Pastrana : Dear friends, honorable members of the Democratic Party of Albania and honored guests!

It is a special privilege to stand before you today as President of the Christian Democratic International and to share a few words of support for the Democratic Party, BDSH, at this crucial moment. Albania is at a crossroads on its path to Europe, guided by the twin pillars of reform and democratic consolidation.

For years, the Democratic Party has stood resolutely by the side of the Albanian people, without retreating, even in the face of the most damaging strategies and policies of Prime Minister Edi Rama. The leadership of President Sali Berisha is a testament to this support for the Albanian people and the resilience of the Democratic Party. Even though he has faced politically motivated persecution and paid with his personal freedom, Dr. Berisha continues to embody the unwavering commitment of the DP to building a freer and stronger Albania, at the heart of the European Union.

Since its establishment as the first opposition party in Albania, after decades of one-party rule, the DP has shown its determination to defend the values ​​shared by our common political family: the rule of law, fundamental freedoms, and faith in the transformative power of responsible governance. These are not just aspirations; they are the foundations upon which successful societies are built, and they also remain the main pillars of the Democratic Party’s political platform and public engagement.

As Albanians prepare for the crucial parliamentary elections next May, the risks and opportunities are great. Democratic institutions benefit when citizens have the opportunity to elect leaders committed to transparency, active citizen involvement, and genuine respect for individual dignity. The Democratic Party has consistently demonstrated its capacity to move Albania forward in these areas, particularly through its emphasis on judicial independence, economic opportunity, and respect for Euro-Atlantic partnerships.

With Albania now firmly on the path to European integration, it is vital that the country's leadership recognises the responsibilities that accompany this journey. Free and fair elections will not only impact national governance, but also the way Albania is perceived in the international arena and in key European institutions.

At IDC-CDI, we see the Democratic Party not just as an ally, but as a partner, whose vision for Albania aligns with the broader ideals of political freedom and economic empowerment. We firmly believe that strong political parties are the foundation of healthy democracies. Over the years, the DP has demonstrated an inclusive approach, supported the participation of women in politics, and expressed continued commitment to fighting corruption, a challenge that affects many countries but must be overcome to ensure sustainable governance.

These initiatives demonstrate the DP’s sincere desire to build trust in public institutions and create a more equal environment for every Albanian. Equally important is its ability to build relationships with international allies, underscoring its capacity to create beneficial partnerships that transcend borders. Through its strong ties with the CDI and other international networks, the DP remains in a favorable position to strengthen Albania’s ties with global partners and increase its presence on the European stage.

Of course, elections are also a celebration of the democratic process itself. Voters must have full confidence that all voices will be heard and that every Albanian has a role in shaping the direction of the country. In this context, I encourage the Democratic Party to continue to appeal to the shared hopes of citizens, to expand the fight against corruption, to advocate for social and economic reforms, and to prioritize Albania’s place in the European family.

Honest dialogue and strong policy proposals can mobilize voters, helping them envision a future where the country's democratic institutions flourish.

To all members of the Democratic Party and your supporters: rest assured that the CDI stands strongly with you. We salute your unwavering commitment and wish you every success in your mission to build a stable, transparent and visionary Albania. I hope that your efforts will bear fruit for the common good, strengthening the conviction that Albania’s best days are indeed ahead, as part of a united European community.