Prishtina, 10 February 2019 – The Ombudsperson of Kosovo, Mr. Naim Qelaj, received in a meeting on Wednesday, the Ombudswoman of Albania, Mrs. Erinda Ballanca and the Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination, Mr. Robert Gajda.

The Ombudsperson Qelaj thanked Mrs. Ballanca and Mr. Gajda for the visit and welcomed the opportunities for the continuation of projects between institutions that will contribute to the advancement of respect for human rights and freedoms in both countries.

Mr. Qelaj added that the tradition of cooperation will continue in the mutual exchange of staff, as well as the mutual support of institutions in regional, European and international networks.

Mrs. Ballanca and Mr. Gajda congratulated Mr. Qelaj for taking the mandate of the Ombudsperson of Kosovo and stressed that they are ready to continue with the joint work.

During the meeting the parties also discussed the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on human rights in Kosovo and Albania and the work done by both institutions in addressing citizens’ complaints.