The People's Advocate of the Republic of Albania, Mr. Endrit Shabani, has contacted his Israeli counterpart, Mr. Matanyahu Englman, requesting full guarantees for the rights, physical integrity and treatment of the Albanian citizen Baki Goxhaj, detained by the Israeli authorities during the intervention against the humanitarian initiative "Global Sumud Flotilla".

The protection of the rights of Albanian citizens is a constitutional obligation that Mr. Shabani exercises in his capacity as the head of the People's Advocate Institution. He is also following the case closely in his capacity as President of the Organization of Mediterranean People's Advocates (AOM).

Mr. Shabani expressed his confidence that the State Comptroller of Israel will engage responsibly to guarantee a dignified treatment of Mr. Goxhaj, in accordance with international human rights standards and the principles that unite us in the Mediterranean area.

Beyond the diplomatic channels being pursued by the Albanian state, the Ombudsman Institution will be present and steadfast in defending Mr. Goxhaj, until his safety, rights and safe return are fully guaranteed.