Afghan Women’s Summit in Tirana, Minister Hasani: Albania, Part of International Efforts for Peace and Stability

Tirana, September 11, 2024 - In his opening remarks at the Afghan Women's Summit, the largest gathering in the past three years of Afghan women and girls activists for human rights, Foreign Minister Igli Hasani praised the courage and resilience of Afghan women against the discriminatory measures imposed by the Taliban regime. He reiterated that Albania continues to be part of active international efforts to bring peace and stability to Afghanistan.

"Our country has been vocal in recognizing the courage, resilience, and strength of Afghan women. The international community must provide them with the resources, expertise, and solidarity they need to rebuild their lives and create a society where gender equality is not just a distant dream but a tangible reality,"said Minister Hasani.

According to the Albanian chief diplomat, the hosting of Afghans three years ago clearly demonstrated the Albanian government's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the human dignity and ensuring full security.

"We did not open the doors of our homes; we opened our hearts to a noble and suffering people. Ensuring the rights of women and girls and advancing the 'Women, Peace, and Security' agenda remain top priorities for the Albanian government. Long-term peace cannot be achieved without the meaningful inclusion and engagement of women," said Minister Igli Hasani.

Present at the event, U.S. Special Envoy for Afghan Women, Girls, and Human Rights Global Issues, Rina Amiri, commended Albania's role in the fight for human rights protection.

"The Albanian people are those who have lost their homes, who have struggled and fought, and who have risen every time. I cannot think of a better partner than Albania now. What I have heard from Afghan women, especially in the past three years, is the appreciation they have had for Albania's support. It is very important that this event is being held here today in Albania," she said.

The Afghan Women's Summit is hosted by the Albanian government through the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and organized by "Women for Afghanistan" (WFA), in collaboration with the governments of Spain and Switzerland.

Approximately 120 Afghan women, including networks of Afghan women from various countries, are participating in the three-day summit from 11- 13 Septembe 2024, in Tirana, serving as a platform to build unity, convey a cohesive message, and amplify their voices.