"Meidani President, Nano Prime Minister and Fino Deputy" Dini's plane lands in Rinas. "Fino, I want us to travel together all the way to Madrid" TIRANA - Just one day after the triumphant celebration of the socialists’ victory in the parliamentary elections, Nano appears determined about the future cabinet. After completing all consultations with allies, he will soon make the necessary appointments, naming the ministers of the new Albanian cabinet. When asked with whom he would govern, since the socialists failed to obtain the qualified majority in Parliament, Nano said: "I will form the government with those who govern the country. The PSD or the allies of the Right Front!" Regarding his candidacy for President, Nano was categorical, stating: "The next President of Albania will be Rexhep Meidani. Sali Berisha is gone!" Nano does not hide his optimism regarding the elections and the new government. He said that the "victory" of 29 June is a great victory for the country and for the democratization of Albanian political life. Meanwhile, Dini has also arrived at Rinas airport. According to reports, he declared: "Fino, I want us to travel together all the way to Madrid". Continues on page 4 Fatos Nano and Alana in Paris

INTERVIEW Shehu: "Why I left the helm of the PD" The former chairman explains the reasons for his resignation After the latest events TIRANA - While his name is being mentioned for several important posts, the former chairman of the PD, Tritan Shehu, told "Gazeta Shqiptare" that the time has come to make room for new names. "I know I made this choice during a difficult period for the party, but it is necessary to open the way for new figures," Shehu said. According to him, the decision to step down from the party leadership came after long reflection on the political situation and the responsibilities borne by the leaders following the developments of recent months. Continues on page 2

SHKODRA - The vote for the new head of the Koplik Municipality has been marred by violence. The voting, which had been taking place peacefully, was interrupted when armed men entered the polling station and opened fire. According to initial information, the incident occurred in the early hours of the morning. The police arrived at the scene and managed to disperse the crowd and escort several people away. Residents of the area said they were shocked by the event and called for the elections to be held peacefully and without pressure. On page 5 Shkoder

GJIROKASTËR - In a press statement, local representatives said that provocations on the border have increased in recent days. According to them, residents of the area have felt threatened by suspicious movements near the border line. The statement says that the relevant structures must take immediate measures to guarantee the safety of residents and the maintenance of order in the area. On page 8

ITALY An Albanian, 300 thousand lire Money for refugees in exchange for emigration BARI - For Albanian refugees in Puglia, payment is made in cash for those who leave voluntarily. In the centers where they have been placed, 300 thousand lire per person are being offered to return or to leave the reception facility. The initiative has been denounced by humanitarian organizations and has been received with skepticism by the migrants themselves, who see it as a form of pressure. According to Italian sources, the measure aims to reduce the number of refugees in the reception structures, but critics say it undermines their dignity. On page 9

24-25 October 1997 Organizations, agencies, research institutes, interest groups, professors and students in the field of economics are invited to take part with papers and discussions in the National Conference on the Economy. The topics will focus on the Albanian economy and the challenges of the transition after the 1997 crisis. Please send the materials within the specified deadline.

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Tel. 38664 Tirana DHL WORLDWIDE EXPRESS We keep your promises Tel - fax 271601 042 - 39332