Interview with the chairman of the Democratic Party of Albania, Mr. Eduard Selami Question: PD has completed two years since its founding. In general, how would you assess this period in Albanian political life? Answer: The two years of PD’s existence mark a period of historical importance not only for the party but also for the life of the country. This political force was born at a time when Albania was in a deep political, economic and moral crisis. With its creation, the institutionalization of the opposition and political pluralism became possible. PD became the expression of the democratic aspirations of Albanians and of their desire to break away from the totalitarian system. During these two years PD has gone through difficult stages, but it has preserved its identity as a reformist force and as a decisive factor in the process of democratizing the country. It has played a first-rate role in the popular movement, in the pluralist elections and in the overthrow of the old political order. Question: How do you assess the role of PD in relation to the other political forces? Answer: PD was the first force to make political pluralism possible and remains today the main force of democratic change. It has managed to mobilize citizens, the intelligentsia, youth and various social strata around a clear political and economic program. In relation to the other forces, PD has been and remains the party most committed to reforms, to the market economy and to Albania’s integration into the European family. Question: What are the main challenges for the future? Answer: The main challenge remains the building of the rule of law, strengthening democratic institutions, economic recovery and addressing the social difficulties of the transition. Likewise, fighting corruption, establishing public order and security, and creating conditions for investment and employment are of special importance. Only in this way will we be able to move forward at a faster pace toward full democracy. (Continued on page 4)

A trial between dictatorship and democracy To be placed in the dock THE EXECUTIONERS of the massacre Has the treachery of the Constitution, in whose name innocent citizens were shot, been severely condemned? In the first hearings of this trial taking place in Shkodër, a series of shocking facts have emerged about the way state violence was carried out against citizens. Testimonies, documents and confrontations have brought to light the responsibility of those who ordered and carried out the massacre. The trial has aroused great interest in public opinion and is being followed closely as a confrontation between the dictatorial past and the demand for democratic justice. (Continued on page 4) TRASHEST directly and indirectly THE CRIMINALS descendants of justice On the need for true justice and not political revenge, it is written that the direct perpetrators and those who covered up the crimes cannot hide behind former positions. REASSESSI [?] THE CRIMINALS descendants of justice

Laws and draft decisions approved In addition, the government has also approved a number of draft decisions for the reconstruction of the economy and finances. At the latest meeting, Prime Minister Meksi declared that this year the state budget will close without a budget deficit. There was also extensive discussion of the draft law “On the fiscal system in the Republic of Albania.” Several draft laws that will go before the People's Assembly were also reviewed. (Continued on page 4)