The last time two high-ranking statesmen from Yugoslavia and Albania met was in 1948. Since then, no high-ranking politician has shaken hands with another. But in 1997 things are changing, although the climate is the same. At the Crete Summit, Nano, the Prime Minister of Albania, will meet Milošević, the President of Yugoslavia, at least that is how it was stated in a notice from our Foreign Minister, Paskal Milo. No details have been given about the meeting. It is known that it will take place behind closed doors and that afterwards there may be some courtesy statement. The two politicians from traditionally hostile countries are supposed to smile before the cameras, but only briefly, when they are switched off. However, Milošević will have it easier with Albania’s current Prime Minister. The latter is known for his more liberal idea on the national question, even bold enough to pursue a less self-centered policy toward Kosovo. His latest statement in favor of expanded autonomy for Kosovo really matches the statements of the State Department, but not Albanian policy and especially not Kosovo’s. So, Milošević should begin the talks with one less demand. Albania may agree to autonomy and, in negotiations, may even concede something less. This could be considered a solution to the Kosovo question, or more precisely, a postponement of it for another 100 years. For the Serb, meanwhile, it may be political capital of value. He has long been trying to rebuild his own battered image after the Bosnia war through his diplomatic career and by lowering nationalist rhetoric. The former Albanian opposition has always had liberal tendencies in foreign policy. Such were once the habits of the liberal democrats in Serbia. The latter hold important posts in the Nano cabinet and declared at their Congress that the coalition government has adopted the PAD program. Perhaps in relations with the neighbors they are right, without disregarding the suspicious tendencies of many leading figures of the ruling Socialist Party.

□ The mad meat drives the municipality crazy Cholera hits the Albanian frogs ———————— Page 7 □ Fier: Memorial for the victims of Otranto Burrel: 7 bullets for two killed and 2 injured ———————— Pages 5-6 □ The troika knocks on Kosovo’s door. Nano sets off for Crete. Berisha calls for an economic debate ———————— Pages 3-4

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