Skopje, 29 April 2025 (MIA) - Over the past decades, PABSEC has reaffirmed itself as a platform that not only connects parliaments, but builds trust between nations, stimulates economic cooperation and fosters democracy. Today, more than ever, we need such an approach, based on respect for international law, dialogue and inclusiveness, Parliament Speaker Afrim Gashi told a session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (PABSEC) Committee on legal affairs and international cooperation.

"Your presence here is not just a diplomatic gesture – it is a proof of our shared willingness to continue constructive cooperation, to deepen institutional ties and build a legally and politically stable region. This Committee is at the core of those efforts – a place where law and politics are not in conflict, but in synergy," said Gashi. 

He pointed out that in a world where we often witness the undermining of legal systems, growing authoritarianism and difficult multilateralism, "our obligation as parliamentarians is to remain messengers of legality, democracy and transparency". 

He stressed that parliaments are not just law-making institutions – they are guardians of values ​​that transcend national borders.

"North Macedonia actively seeks to deepen its participation in all PABSEC bodies. We are convinced that only through open dialogue, common priorities and the establishment of trust, we can build a stronger and more sustainable regional architecture. The session is taking place at a time of significant geopolitical developments that affect us all. In this sense, it is precisely the parliaments that should be the connective tissue between citizens and decision-making processes. As representatives of the people, we are called not only to react, but also to anticipate – to build the future with responsibility and vision," Gashi noted. 

He added that discussions and conclusions from this session will contribute to further development of legal cooperation in the region and will open new perspectives for parliamentary engagement, being an opportunity to exchange experience, promote good practices and establish partnerships that will benefit all citizens in the wider Black Sea region.

Photo: Parliament