On Tuesday, 11.03.2025, the President of the Appeal Chamber, Mr. Sokol Çomo, met with the European Union Ambassador to Tirana, Mr. Silvio Gonzato, and the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy in Albania, Mrs. Nancy VanHorn, at the premises of the Appeal Chamber. The meeting focused on the vetting process of judges and prosecutors and its completion within the constitutional deadlines.
President Çomo expressed his gratitude for the continuous support of the EU and the United States in the vetting process, emphasizing its critical role in advancing this complex undertaking, which is now in its final stage. He provided a brief overview of the process, highlighting that the Appeal Chamber has taken all necessary measures and worked closely with the International Monitoring Operation to develop and implement a concrete work plan. This plan aims to finalize the adjudication of approximately 100 remaining cases by June 2026.
EU Ambassador Silvio Gonzato reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to supporting the vetting process, stating that it is important for each subject, whose case is pending examination, to be adjudicated under the same standards established by the Chamber. “We appreciate your work and your cooperation with the IMO, as well as the efforts to uphold trial standards. You have our full support, and we have taken steps to ensure that IMO observers will be present throughout the completion of the vetting process,” he stated.
Ms. Nancy VanHorn also expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Chamber’s judges in this challenging process, balancing an accelerated pace on one hand, and the preservation of judicial quality on the other. “We understand how challenging this process is for you and your families,” said Ms. VanHorn. “Your commitment to completing it within the constitutional mandate shows strength and should serve as an example for other justice institutions.”