The hunger strikers: Demonstration today in front of the Company. The parties are collecting money from creditors PD heads toward Vlora; the Committee lies in wait at Mifol. Europe: Make peace, or we’ll cut off your aid!

Eighty-five years ago, at a time when the Balkan invasion was more threatening than ever, Albania declared its Independence, setting out on a new path toward fulfilling its national aspirations. November 28, 1912, was undoubtedly the most indisputable political and diplomatic act in Albanian history. Independence was a specific necessity for Albanians, one that defined national existence. Albanians experienced Independence as a necessity for development, stability and well-being for future generations. All human resources, inherited cultural and patriotic values, and customs were put in the service of Independence. The process that followed the act of Independence responded to national priorities, influencing Albanian consciousness from generation to generation. Although several social, economic and political structures collapsed, the spirit of Independence remained an inalienable part of Albanian identity. The 85 years of Independence showed that Albania exists as a bomb, not only with a tradition, but also with clear European predispositions, and contemporary attire and aims. But it is deeply tragic for a nation like ours to celebrate its National Day divided among five states, under the harsh pressure of neighbouring chauvinisms. At this critical moment, despite the spiritual closeness among Albanians, there is no pan-national platform to realise the dream of Unity and institutionalise independence. The fault lies not with the Albanians, but with the politicians. Under their influence, the spirit of unity is pushed aside and the spirit of division encouraged. Even on National Day, which is a sacred day, division among Albanians takes on ominous forms. After arguing at length about dates, the parties, throughout the Albanian lands, try to impose love of the nation through decrees and empty rhetoric, seeking to seize political monopolies. Thirsty for power alone, politicians have become so blinded by cosmopolitanism that they fail to notice that even on National Day, Skanderbeg Square is filled with foreign flags, as if to deny Albanians their greatest treasure—the feeling of Independence.

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TV kills a baby The pyramids invade the nurseries The police turned my daughter into a prostitute Page 5 Speedboats are removed from the coast and hidden in houses Page 7 The European Parliament supports the Republican Round Table Page 3 The flag embroiderer Page 15

“REPUBLIKA”, “Sami Frashëri” Street, near “Petro Nini Luarasi” High School, Tirana. Account No. 986/110, Tirana Commercial Bank. Tel/Fax (+355 42) 259 88 Tel. (+355 42) 230 90