“The Shënboll Declaration”, a historic document that goes beyond the borders of London The echoes continue of the meeting of the Heads of State and Government of the Council of Europe, held in Istanbul, where Albania officially became a member of this organization. At this meeting, which was also called the “Meeting of Hope,” the joint declaration known as the “Shënboll Declaration” was signed by the 51 participating states, among them Albania. The declaration is an important code and document for the future of Europe, but especially for our Balkan region, where the effects of the collapse of totalitarian systems are still being felt. It gives importance to strengthening peace and security, human rights and fundamental freedoms, the peaceful resolution of conflicts, and cooperation in all fields. This declaration especially emphasizes respect for existing borders and that they must not be changed by force, etc. In this context Albania has welcomed it as an important document for the stability of the Balkans. The declaration condemns the use of force, aggression, ethnic cleansing, terrorism, and all serious violations of international law. It also calls on states to respect the commitments made within the framework of the CSCE and its institutions. For Albania, participation in this meeting is a success for our diplomacy and a confirmation of our place in the European family.

Discussion in the parliamentary group On Saturday evening at the headquarters of the Democratic Party, the meeting of the Democratic parliamentary group took place. One of the main items on the agenda was a discussion of Mr. Gramoz Pashko’s positions and his relations with the parliamentary group. The discussion stressed that any debate must take place within the framework of democratic norms and the party statute. It was requested that any reservations or criticism be expressed in the relevant forums and not in a way that harms the unity of the party. Some of the speakers highlighted Mr. Pashko’s contribution to the democratic movement, but at the same time expressed disagreement with his recent positions. Others called for the matter to be handled calmly, prudently, and with political responsibility. In the end it was decided that the discussion would continue at upcoming meetings and that the cohesion of the parliamentary group should be preserved.

The failure, especially regarding the flexibility of the tax electivity [?] The article discusses the problems of implementing reforms and the major reservations that appear in the economy and the administration. It emphasizes the lack of preparation, delays in decision-making, and the uncertainties accompanying the transformation process. The author argues that reform cannot move forward without greater administrative discipline, without transparency, and without institutional responsibility. Special attention is also given to the social effect of reform and the need to protect the sections of the population most affected.

The President of the Republic received Mr. Mok and held a conversation with him about bilateral relations as well as the latest developments in the country. During the meeting, the importance of strengthening economic and political cooperation was underlined, as well as support for democratic processes in Albania. The interlocutors expressed their will to expand contacts and cooperation in the future.

The country’s political situation and the latest developments in parliament are assessed in this article as a consequence of conflicting interests. The analysis emphasizes that political debate should be guided by the public interest and not by narrow party calculations. The author notes that leaving parliament or boycotting it cannot serve as a long-term solution; it only worsens the political climate and hinders reforms. (Continued on page 4)