On the eve of the Peace Forum in Paris 2023, Prime Minister Edi Rama has made a statement regarding the speech he will deliver on Friday (November 10). 

Rama says that he will join other world leaders to discuss ways to end the conflict in Gaza, while reiterating that Albania stands firm with Israel against Hamas. 

Among other things, the prime minister states that prolonging this conflict only feeds Hamas's ambitions for chaos and a wider conflict, but also emphasizes that the reoccupation of Gaza is unacceptable. 
 
"Tomorrow, November 10, I will join other world leaders in Paris to discuss ways to help the civilian population and hopefully end the conflict in Gaza. As a member of the UN Security Council, but more importantly as a peaceful and peace-loving multi-religious country, Albania is deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict and prolonged suffering in Gaza. 

I reiterate, Albania stands firm with Israel against Hamas. However, we are also deeply concerned by the destruction, civilian casualties and suffering in Gaza. 

In Paris, I will emphasize that it is essential to end this conflict before it gets out of control. 

Also, I will emphasize that while Israel has the indisputable right to self-defence, it must do so in accordance with international humanitarian law. Prolonging this conflict only feeds Hamas' ambitions for chaos and a wider conflict. 

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

In exchange for an immediate ceasefire from Israel, the Arab League and Turkey must ensure the unconditional and safe release of all hostages taken by Hamas. 

The reoccupation of Gaza is unacceptable. With the release of the hostages, Israel must withdraw all forces from Gaza. 

After the terrible crimes committed on October 7, there can be no political future for Hamas. Under the UN mandate, an international force led by the Arab League could temporarily take control of Gaza, facilitating the necessary reconstruction and transition of governing responsibilities from Hamas to the Palestinian Authority. Albania is ready to co-sponsor the necessary UN Security Council resolution for the above. 

With the cessation of all fighting, the international community should commit to organizing an international conference of donors to finance the reconstruction of Gaza," Rama said.