- Interview with the President of the Republic, prof. dr. SALI BERISHA, given to the secretary of the Collegium, Mr. Skënder Shkupi. A PEOPLE LIKE THIS ONE OF VNI PROMISES AND WILL HAVE A WORTHY FUTURE - Interview with the President of the Republic, prof. dr. SALI BERISHA Given to the secretary of the Collegium, Mr. Skënder Shkupi. Mr. President, I have been given private notes with the questions below for discussion with interest. We have had the impression that, if you give us the corresponding answers, we would be able to thank the readers and the public opinion for this interest. In the last ten months Albania has been at the center of the attention of democratic opinion throughout the world because of its problems. In particular, last year and this beginning of April have brought political and electoral developments of importance for our country. With these questions we wish to pause on some of them and on Your perspective. Apart from what you call a transitional period, how do You judge the current political situation in Albania? Even before the first parliamentary session, I emphasized that Albania is in a historic moment. The decisions that will be taken in this short period will not only determine its present, but also its future for a long time. Albania is a country that is definitively breaking away from dictatorship, a country that is implementing market economy and democratic system reforms. On this road, one cannot fail to feel the deep economic and social crisis and the inherited wounds. This makes national consensus and understanding even more important. The political situation is difficult, but not without hope. Democratic forces have won the trust of the people. This people has expressed through its vote its will for freedom, pluralism and change. This is a strong basis for building the new Albania. We are trying to create a new administration, trustworthy institutions and laws that protect the citizen. It will take time, effort and sacrifice. But I am convinced that this people, which has endured so much, has the energy and dignity to come out of this situation. Within this framework, the role of Parliament and the government is essential. Likewise, the support of international partners, who have shown understanding and readiness to help our country. (from page 2)

- Presented by the Prime Minister, Mr. Aleksander Meksi - In this special time of transition, our country is going through a difficult economic and social period. The new government assumes major responsibilities for restoring order, reviving the economy and guaranteeing democratic freedoms. 1. Improvement of agricultural land The government will take measures for a fair distribution of land, for equipping peasants with working tools and for creating the necessary conditions for production. The agrarian reform will be accompanied by policies that encourage work and investment in agriculture. 2. Privatization of enterprises The privatization process will be transparent and legally controlled. State enterprises will gradually pass into private ownership or into other economic forms that ensure greater efficiency and the preservation of jobs. 3. Economic reform Measures will be put in place for financial stabilization, the fight against inflation and the creation of a free market. The government aims to encourage private enterprise and fair trade. 4. Social protection The needy strata will be supported with social policies, special assistance and programs to deal with unemployment. 5. Relations with the world Albania will open itself to Europe and international institutions, seeking cooperation and assistance for the rebuilding of the economy. (continued on pages 2-3)

STATEMENT regarding the announcement of the special envoy of “Z P” The social communists have issued a statement in which they express their regret over the latest political developments and call for a new attitude toward the left-wing forces. According to them, the democratic process should not turn into political revenge, but into institutional coexistence. PDSI has denounced verbal violence and attempts at delegitimization, while calling for Albanian politics to follow European standards. FOR THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY EDUARD SELAMI

- Germany is extending a hand to us for the third time...! Last year, June foreshadowed such a wave of exodus. In the autumn there was an attitude toward which there was a rare stance, with the feeling that it had to be resolved properly. Albanians also waited for explanations to make it clear. Only Germany was asking for people. In the previous year, during the difficult months of departure, help was declared steady. Thus, the German triad of orientation reminded the Albanian person. In the year of his salvation, Germany clearly moved to another stance. It was not-