On behalf of the Democratic Party, the democratic parliamentary group and the coalition government, I wish today, for the first time, to address all Albanians on the occasion of the first session of the pluralist People's Assembly. From the outset I want to make it clear to the Albanian people that in our current policy economic problems are at the center. This is our main task. This is what the people expect. Therefore, all our energy will be focused on a program of economic and social stabilization. We are facing a very serious economic situation. This situation is the direct result of the former system, of command-style politics and of many years of isolation. Shortages are severe, production has fallen, the market is disordered and poverty has affected most people. Our coalition government is clear that there can be no political stabilization without economic stabilization. And there can be no economic stabilization without sacrifices, without work and without a fairer distribution of the burden of the crisis. The state will intervene to ensure the minimum supply of the population and to avoid chaos. We seek the people's trust not through words, but through deeds. Only by concrete improvement in everyday life, with supply, order, justice and openness to the world will we deserve that trust. We are convinced that Albania can rise again. It has resources, capable people and determination. But for this, everyone must contribute, respect the law and work honestly. The government will fight privileges, arbitrariness and corruption. Under these conditions, we ask for the understanding and support of all citizens. We are entering a difficult period, but one that is necessary for saving the country. The road of reforms is not easy, but it is the only road. We will work for democracy, for a market economy, for a state governed by law and for Albania's integration into Europe. This is our responsibility before the people and before history.

(News agencies) Gazmend Sinishta will certainly intensify the efforts for independence in Kosovo after the summit. Kosovo President Ibrahim Rugova told reporters that he is taking steps toward independence and expects international recognition. This statement was made after his meetings and after the latest political developments in the region. According to the statement, law enforcement forces and the security situation in Kosovo remain worrying. Various representatives have commented on the latest developments, while attention is focused on the reactions of Belgrade and the international centers. Rugova stressed that the people of Kosovo have clearly expressed their will for freedom and democracy and that this path will be followed without turning back. (Continued on page 2)

It is not so hot that PD seems to be pushing them for other reasons as well. In the last 10 days there have been many political events. 10. Now we come to the main conditions. The essence of these events has created high political tension. 11. [...] 1. Not letting the spectator stay. Corruption has entered the game. 2. Stopping the scene of vandalism. 3. They did not come to the Congress with arrogance, but with humility. 4. The way in which the PD was positioned. 5. The chosen role of Sali Berisha. 6. [...] 7. It is no coincidence that new political classes are being formed. 8. Internal party elections are a political school. 9. Democrats must show civic-mindedness. 10. Success is not measured by cheers, but by the ability to build institutions. 11. The difference between freedom and anarchy must be understood. 12. The debate must be conducted on ideas and not on personal insults. 13. This is a test of the maturity of our new democracy. (Continued on page 2)