And so the rule of law and the benefits that derive from the speedy, fair administration of justice are particularly important to me. And to S.E. Europe. We are all working to create a more peaceful, prosperous, democratic region. This is a difficult, long-term project that will require our cooperation and our patience. But above all it will require a strong, efficient judiciary that holds the full faith and confidence of the people in each state.
Civil society is based on the rule of law.
Only when citizens believe that laws and not men govern the decisions that effect their everyday life, only then can societies flourish. Business, politics, government - all are effected by the law, and all depend on impartial and efficient judicial administration to function effectively. This is why I am so pleased that the Balkan Law School Linkage is becoming a reality. From my discussions with Dean Kranjc I know that law schools in the former Yugoslavia had strong links for many years. But with independence some of these contacts were diminished.