The Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice Donika Gërvalla received today in a courtesy meeting the new Head of the EULEX Mission in the Republic of Kosovo Antero Lopes with whom she discussed strengthening the rule of law and deepening justice reforms.

“Justice reforms are not a moment’s political choice, but rather a necessity for the consolidation of the rule of law. Justice reforms involves political determination, institutions with integrity and equal application of the law. Cooperation with EULEX and international partners remains important to take these processes forward and to strengthen trust in justice institutions”, said Minister Gërvalla.

In speaking about the reform processes in the justice system, Minister Gërvalla referred to the functionalization of the State Bureau for Verification and Confiscation of Unjustified Assets, the Vetting process and the approval of the legal package of the justice reform.

“The functionalization of the State Bureau for Verification and Confiscation of Unjustified Assets, the Vetting process and the approval of the legal package of the justice reform are part of a broad reform process to free the justice system from crime and corruption, illegal and dishonest influences and conflicts of interest, and not only that, and strengthen the integrity, independence and credibility of the rule of law”, declared Minister Gërvalla.

At the meeting, Minister Gërvalla also discussed cooperation between Kosovo institutions and EULEX in monitoring the justice system, with particular emphasis on the institutional handling of cases of domestic violence, violence against women and gender-based violence.

“In this regard, cooperation with EULEX in monitoring the justice system, especially in the institutional handling of cases of domestic violence, violence against women and gender-based violence, remains extremely important for strengthening institutional accountability and ensuring a rapid, coordinated and effective response, with the protection of victims as a priority”, said Minister Gërvalla.

At the end of the meeting, Minister Gërvalla congratulated the new Head of EULEX Mission, Mr. Lopes, on his new assignment and wished him much success in exercising his mandate.