President Berisha and Gligorov take part in the inauguration of the Tabanoc crossing in Gevgelija Mutual readiness for the expansion of relations President Berisha and Gligorov take part in the inauguration of the Tabanoc crossing in Gevgelija Skopje, 14 December (ATSH) — The return of a clear dividing line in Albania’s relations with the former Macedonian Yugoslavia is taking shape at a satisfactory pace. This was also served by the visit of Albania’s President, Sali Berisha, to this republic, as well as the meeting with Macedonian President Kiro Gligorov in the city of Gevgelija, on the occasion of the inauguration of the international road and rail crossing. President Berisha told journalists that preparations are being made to establish a new relationship. “Our two countries have many reasons to be linked by relations of good neighborliness, normality and cooperation. Until just 2-3 years ago we enjoyed only the right to transit transport through Yugoslavia, which until recently represented for us the country where the rights of Albanians were violated. In this regard is Macedonia, which we consider a new democratic state and in many circumstances finds itself dependent on the creation of new relations with its neighbors,” President Berisha said. While praising Albania’s democratic developments, Macedonian President Kiro Gligorov stated that the meeting with President Sali Berisha was one of the best opportunities to get to know one another. “Our two countries can now use all their potential and human resources for good neighborliness, independence, prosperity and cooperation,” he said. The Macedonian president added that this border crossing is being opened for the movement of people and goods. According to him, this is very important for the market economy.

Serbian chauvinism over the Albanian population It is an enterprise of terror directed against the Albanian nationality in Kosovo and a terrible genocide. This policy has been carried out for a long time, from the Serbian kingdom to the present day. This includes the communist system as well. There are countless examples of this. On this page we are publishing materials that provide an overview of this situation. There are many documents and testimonies about the crimes committed against Albanians. They are being treated as a subjugated people without rights. AFRIM KRASNIQI

The Shkodër trial OVO MES DITATUS DE DEMOCRACISE [?] THE SHKODËR TRIAL OVO MES DITATUS DE DEMOCRACISE [?] THE RED CRIMINALS WANT TO COVER THEIR TRACKS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF THE CLOAK [?] The history of this trial and the anomaly accompanying its course are a clear reflection of the situation in the entire field of justice today in Albania. The defendants are representatives of the former high nomenklatura of the dictatorship, led by Ramiz Alia. They are accused of very serious crimes such as: “Murder at the border,” “Poisoning of the population,” “Abuse of office,” “Crimes against humanity,” etc. These charges, accompanied by numerous pieces of evidence and testimony, would merit a fair, public and impartial trial. But what is happening is quite the opposite. Instead of the trial uncovering the truth and punishing the guilty, it is being dragged out, entangled in procedures, losing its essence. The defense of the defendants and segments of the justice system are acting as if the main aim were to soften responsibilities and cover up the tracks. For public opinion it is clear that we are dealing not only with a legal process, but with a political and moral confrontation with the past. In this trial, not only individual responsibilities come to light, but also the machinery of an entire regime that oppressed, interned, killed and poisoned its own people. Therefore, any attempt to relativize the crimes or portray them as administrative “mistakes” is an insult to the victims and to the national conscience. (continued on page 4)

LOVE AND RESPECT AS WEAPONS OF THE NEW SOCIETY - Interview with Mr. Tomar Osian - There are many personalities who are better known for the place they are associated with than for their own personal activity. Tomar Osiu is undoubtedly one of them. His name is identified with the name of the city of Elbasan. In the middle of this interview you will ask me: “Well, who is this person?” This question, apparently quite unnatural, is asked by some because we live in a time when everyone casts doubt on anyone. His name and activity are intertwined with the landscape and the moral character of the city of Elbasan. For those who know him, he is a calm, simple and restrained man, but with extraordinary spiritual and civic energy. For those who do not know him, it is enough to say that for years he has been a symbol of kindness, help for others and respect for people. The conversation with him is not merely an interview about personal memories; it turns into a reflection on Albanian society, on the virtues we lost and those we must raise again. According to him, the new society cannot be built with hatred or revenge, but with justice, respect and love for people. Only in this way can the wounds of the past be overcome and a climate of understanding created. To our question about the role of the intellectual and the citizen in this transitional time, Mr. Osiu replied that no one should stand aside. Everyone has the duty to contribute something to their community, whether through words, example, or work. “If we expect others to do everything, then nothing will change,” he said. He also speaks about the family, upbringing and the need for the younger generation to be taught honesty. According to him, democracy is not only a system of institutions, but above all a culture of behavior. Without this culture, freedom can be misused and society can lose its moral compass. At the end of the conversation, Tomar Osiu emphasizes that Albania needs more self-confidence. We must not remain hostage to divisions or to disappointment. The future, according to him, is built by ordinary people who know how to love and respect one another. (continued on page 9)

Supplement of the Muslim Community The purpose has come: “This question has been asked to an official of the Islamic Community, Mr. Islam...? [?]” Chairman I. HAFIZ SABRI KOÇI