Brussels report: The situation in Albania is very alarming Clinton sends envoy Loy: Find out what is happening in Albania page 2

The period of encouragement and support from the international community for the Majko government, which lasted somewhat longer than expected because of developments in Kosovo, seems to have come to an end, giving way to observations, warnings and criticism of the unsatisfactory situation prevailing in the country. The enthusiasm for the Albanian factor that had arisen among foreigners during the war in Kosovo has quickly been replaced by the gloom and pessimism that the Albanian reality inspires in everyone. Just a few days ago, it was the “Friends” who openly expressed their concern about the unparalleled disorder and corruption, the two diseases that make Albania an unsuitable place for investment and honest business. Also, two days ago, more or less the same things—indeed, even more explicitly—were pointed out in Brussels at a meeting of the European Commission, paving the way for a representative of the US administration to make it clear that if Albania is unable to meet the conditions set regarding the functioning of the state and the enforcement of the law, it risks being left without any support. In light of such signals, it can be said that the “Majko” government is now facing the most critical period of its entire existence. The “Friends” and the outside forces that have supported it without reservation throughout these months now expect only results with which the government must justify that support. In fact, since this is the government that has enjoyed more support than any other, any pretext Majko and his aides might use to explain the alarming reality in the country has become all the less convincing. This is all the more true at a time when the opposition cannot be accused of “aggressiveness,” not to mention the occasions on which it has offered cooperation. If Majko is unable to fight corruption and establish order, even at a minimal level, the consequences would be fatal; the great disappointment that could follow the illusions recently fostered about unstinting Western aid could bring back the events of 1997. In this situation, a “firm hand” and the inclusion in the government of the viewpoints of those forces essential to meeting this difficult challenge are needed. If Majko feels that he will struggle to succeed, he should change the cabinet before it is too late, even if that means adopting a different formula for governing.

Prime Minister Majko and the US ambassador in Tirana, Frowick

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