- A product of Mr. Ceka’s compromise - In the decision that Parliament approved by a majority vote yesterday, the creation of the National Information Service – SHIK – was enacted. This service will be called an intelligence and counterintelligence agency, which in the future may also deal with special investigations into matters directly related to the country’s security. Some of the main facts about SHIK and its activity, which will have a considerable impact on the lives of Albanians, can be found in our special article on page 5 of this newspaper. The National Information Service is emerging from the structure of the Ministry of the Interior, since Prime Minister Meksi has not accepted at any time that it be subordinate to Minister Ceka. The new law has come after many discussions between the executive power and the Minister of the Interior, Mr. Ceka, who has demanded that SHIK be dependent on the ministry he heads. In recent days, the Democratic parliament has approved the compromise version, in which Mr. Ceka has not fully won his battle, but has not been left outside the sphere of influence in security matters either. The new service will have leaders appointed according to the formulas established by law and will operate in coordination with other state bodies. The law defines its mission as protecting the constitutional order, national security, and counterintelligence against hostile activities. (Continues on page 4)

Meeting of President Boris Yeltsin with Mr. Soros Prime Minister Meksi received Mr. Soros During the meeting he held with Prime Minister Aleksandër Meksi, the President of the “Open Society” Foundation (Open Society Fund), Mr. Xhorxh Soros, accompanied by the executive director of the foundation for Albania, Mr. Jan Hylsed (?) and the coordinator of activities for the Balkans, Mr. Andrej Kvash[?], informed the prime minister of the plans this foundation has to help our country. Mr. Soros assured the prime minister that the foundation he leads considers it a pleasure and an honor to contribute to democratic, educational, and cultural developments in Albania. Particular attention was given to the possibilities of financing programs in the fields of education, publishing, science, and civic initiatives. For his part, Prime Minister Meksi thanked Mr. Soros for the interest and willingness shown, valuing the role this foundation can play during the transition period. The full article also provides details about the meeting with Russian President Boris Yeltsin and the contacts made during the visit. (ATSH)

From the conversation, greetings, and mutual appreciations, it was emphasized that help for Albania in this difficult period is of special importance. The Foundation “Open Society for Albania” was valued as a symbol of the noblest human feelings and of efforts to come to the aid of a country that is going through great difficulties. The meeting discussed cooperation in various fields and support for programs affecting vulnerable groups, youth, education, and culture. The full article continues with other details about the reception and the messages conveyed. (Continues on page 5)

Art, literature, journalism, and analysis are fields in which authors often pause to reflect on the role of the people's representative. According to these views, a deputy must be a person of high moral responsibility, knowledgeable about citizens’ hardships, and ready to account to them. In Albania’s new political conditions, where pluralism has brought a new spirit, expectations of the deputy have increased and the public demands more honesty and dedication. The article also deals with the relationship between a deputy’s words and deeds, as well as the connection with the electorate. (Continues on page 4)

In yesterday’s parliamentary session, important issues related to draft laws and the progress of reforms were discussed. A number of deputies focused on economic problems, public order, and the state administration. The debates were marked by strong political tones, but also by efforts to reach consensus-based decisions on some points. Amendments were presented and various provisions were put to a vote, while the session presidency tried to maintain order in the discussion. (Continues on page 4)