Transcript of the speech by the President of the Republic, Mr. Sali Berisha, at the meeting with intellectuals in Shkodër The relations that are developing so strongly in Albania, and everywhere else in countries undergoing democratic transformation, require new outlooks and people with creative abilities, civic character, and professional skills. Intellectuals make up the layer that can guide society wisely and responsibly in difficult periods such as the one we are going through. In the city of Shkodër I wish to stress the great importance that educated people have for the fate of a nation. A nation that does not value intelligence, knowledge, culture, and scientific work risks falling behind and losing the ability to face the challenges of the time. Therefore, for us, promoting the intellectual elite is a fundamental duty of the state and society. The market economy, political pluralism, and the rule of law cannot be built without free thought, without universities, schools, laboratories, libraries, and without the moral integrity of those who produce ideas and knowledge. Nations advance when they honor knowledge and when they create conditions for intellectuals to contribute without fear, without pressure, and without discrimination. The Europe we aspire to is not only a common market, but also a community of values, where freedom, human dignity, and justice are the foundation of development. Albania will move forward only by relying on its most capable, most honest, and most dedicated people. On this path, we need criticism, debate, ideas, and responsibility. The true intellectual is not merely a specialist in his or her own field, but also an active citizen who defends the public interest and guides social thought toward truth and progress. (To be continued)

TIRANA. — In yesterday’s operation, a day after the landing of the EC observers and the strict monitoring of the Albanian-Greek border, it appears that large military forces were also involved. On the military helicopter flying over the Albanian border zone with Greece, the numbers 28-?1-1? and 78-15 were observed. On the Greek side, according to the information received, substantial military maneuvers were being carried out. Greek military forces had occupied trenches, shelters, and prepared positions. It seems that the Greek government has put into action a provocative plan, calling for support from Belgrade. On the first evening in the church of the village of Bularat in Gjirokastra, after gunshots were fired, there was psychological pressure on the foreign observers in Albania. More than 60 people gathered in the church, most of them women and children, who were insisting strongly that the security forces leave the village, considering them an occupying force. Besides the women, there were also two people armed with automatic rifles and grenades, who were being hidden by the women. A third person, who from time to time came out of the church’s northern door, was carrying an automatic rifle with a grenade launcher. Around 3 in the morning, police forces, accompanied by the foreign observers, entered the church and arrested 6 people. According to the police, they had taken part in the killing of two Albanian soldiers and in the armed attack on the Albanian border post. Of the arrested persons, one was a Greek citizen, while the others were residents of the village. In this situation, the chairman of the Democratic Prosperity Party, Mr. Sabri Godo, in a statement to the press said that Albanian-Greek relations cannot be resolved with ultimatums or theories from the past. He stressed that existing borders must be respected and that the idea of “Greater Serbia” and territorial expansion is a danger to peace in the region. According to him, as long as this idea exists, there will be no stability in the region. (ATSH)

IEÇM ALBINES University, Mr. Sami Prifti gave an exclusive answer to “Mëly Bugaj” ALBINES: Advice and well-being. Thanks to the Party of Prosperity and the help of Albanian intellectuals. ALBINES. Advice and well-being. Thanks to the Party of Prosperity and the help of Albanian intellectuals. Question: What led you to choose Albania? Answer: Albania is reaching a historic moment. It is a country that is opening up, and I believe it has extraordinary human potential. I came here convinced that Albanians can build a better future. Question: What does the help of professors mean? Answer: It means exchange of experience, new teaching programs, laboratories, support for students, and especially trust in Albanian youth. Question: How do you see the future of the university? Answer: If work is done seriously and with European standards, the university will become an important center for education and scientific research. Question: Is help from abroad necessary? Answer: Yes, but it must be honest and strengthen domestic institutions. Question: Why did you choose to be here now? Answer: Because I love Albania and I believe it has a great future. Question: What would you say to Albanian students? Answer: To study a lot, to believe in themselves, and not to give up on their dreams. (To be continued)

At today’s parliamentary session, the request to lift the parliamentary immunity of P.S.I. Kasin and S. Kacanin will be examined, with the aim of opening criminal proceedings against them. At yesterday’s meeting of the socialist parliamentary group, there was talk of the need for a public clarification of the case and of the necessity for deputies not to hide behind immunity when they are suspected of criminal acts. According to parliamentary sources, the debate is expected to be sharp and to focus on the relationship between justice and politics. (Continued on page 2)

Responsible for World Conference on HUMAN RIGHTS

To be the leaders TIRANA. — The Italian news agency (ANSA) reports that the president of Verona (ETA) decided to also approach the prefecture of this city. Such an initiative aims to encourage direct contacts with the Albanian authorities and expand economic cooperation. ATHENS. — According to the Greek newspaper “Ta Nea”, in connection with trade exchange and relations with Greece, there is growing interest in Albanian business from Italian companies. (ATSH)

TIRANA. — Through an initiative undertaken by employees of the French Embassy in Albania and supported by the Ministry of Health, as well as thanks to the assistance of various organizations and foundations, including KFOR and ORPANO of the Council and the Order of the Albanian Skujas [?], it has been possible to bring equipment worth 1.5 million francs from France. (To be continued) SISTER Samel [?] writes subject and language Progress, science, and the evolution of modern technology have made possible the transplantation of organs and their replacement with electronic or mechanical equipment. This dream, which once seemed like a fairy tale or a science-fiction fantasy, has today become a successful reality.

TIRANA. — Within the framework of a job offer submitted by a private company in Italy, applicants are sought for the implementation of structures with engineering and economics. Those interested must submit the relevant documents and professional data to the appropriate offices. For persons with foreign-language skills and work experience abroad, priority will be given during the selection. Ultimately, the work will be carried out under a regular contract and according to the law of the host country. (ATSH) PNUD: Will it also provide the necessary means for municipal workers? [?]