President of the Republic, Mr. Sali Berisha, received a group of representatives of the Greek minority, led by deputy Vasil Bollano. At the meeting, the problems concerning the Greek minority in Albania and the efforts being made to solve them were discussed. President Berisha stressed that the policy of the Albanian state toward minorities is in line with European standards and that their rights will be fully respected. He stated that democracy and the rule of law guarantee the freedoms of all citizens without distinction of nationality or religion. The representatives of the Greek minority expressed their views regarding education, culture, the use of the mother tongue, and other issues affecting the everyday life of their community. They appreciated the new climate created in Albania and the readiness of state institutions to listen to and solve problems. President Berisha pointed out the importance of coexistence, mutual understanding, and preserving harmony among all communities in the country. He stressed that Albania is interested in good relations with its neighbors and in strengthening regional stability. The meeting took place in an open and constructive spirit.

- Chairman of the Presidium of the People’s Assembly, Pjetër Arbnori, received the delegation of American congressmen In the office of the Chairman of the Presidium of the People’s Assembly, Mr. Pjetër Arbnori received the delegation of 6 American congressmen, who is on a visit the delegation was Mr. Tom Lantos. During the conversation it was noted that the democratic forces, as Mr. Arbnori said, have been and remain determined to walk the path of democracy, of the existence of the rule of law and of the market economy. The democratic forces are fighting to eradicate the communist mentality. Stressing that Albania's path toward democracy continues, Mr. Arbnori pointed out that the democratic forces, despite difficulties, have known how to face the created situations with courage and wisdom. Mr. Arbnori emphasized that in Albania today important steps forward are being taken, especially in the economic field, and that alongside this the necessary space is also being created for solving social problems. Dwelling on the importance foreign aid has for Albania, Mr. Arbnori said that the great work being done cannot be achieved without such assistance. He said that the aid given to Albania is very important, not only for strengthening democracy in Albania, but also for preserving peace and stability in the region. He underlined that Albania is in favor of the peaceful resolution of conflicts and of regional cooperation of mutual benefit. For their part, the ladies and gentlemen American congressmen praised the steps taken in Albania to establish democracy and the rule of law. They expressed the conviction that Albania is on the right path and pointed out that our country deserves the aid of the United States. They underlined that the Albanian democratic forces have known how to overcome numerous difficulties and that their commitment to reforms is evident. The visit of this delegation and the interest it showed in developments in Albania were assessed as an important political and moral support for our country.

Meeting of Mr. Eduardo Sandi, Chairman of the PD and Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the delegation of American congressmen Two members of the People’s Assembly delegation and Eduard Sandi, on behalf of the Democratic Party, yesterday afternoon in Tirana received the delegation of American congressmen led by Mr. Tom Lantos, accompanied by the American ambassador to Albania, Mr. William Ryerson. Mr. Eduard Sandi, after welcoming the guests, acquainted them with the situation in the country, the democratic processes, and the difficulties inherited from the communist past. He stressed that Albania is making serious efforts to build the institutions of democracy and the market economy, and that international aid is important for the success of these reforms. The head of the American delegation, Mr. Tom Lantos, expressed his support for democratic developments in Albania. He stated that the American people are following closely the changes taking place in our country and that Albania has great friends across the ocean. The meeting also discussed Albanian-American relations, the importance of expanding economic cooperation, and Albania’s role in the region. Those present pointed out the need to continue reforms and strengthen the rule of law.

On 7 July, the seminar on parliamentary procedures, organized by the Council of Europe Office for Albania and the Legal Affairs Committee of the People’s Assembly, concluded. Deputies, jurists, and specialists from the Assembly administration took part in the seminar. During the proceedings, issues related to the drafting of laws, procedures for review in committees, the role of plenary sessions, and the experience of other European countries in this field were addressed. The participants stressed the importance of increasing professionalism in parliamentary work and improving the procedural framework for the normal functioning of the legislative institution. The necessity of cooperation with international organizations for the exchange of experience and technical assistance was also underlined. (ATSH)

My heartfelt gratitude to Dr. REPARTIM MINO, head of the surgical service, for the fast and miraculous recovery of my son. ABNJIL AZIZI Tirana I am also grateful to the doctors and nursing staff of the same institution for the care shown. Dr. MIMO LLAZZI ZYMA[?] (ATSH)

MP: WARNING OF THE REPUBLIC OF ALBANIA TIRANA ATHENS REQUESTS OF THE GREEK GOVERNMENT TO THE PRIME MINISTER H. E. MR. A. MITSOTAKIS ATHENS TO THE PRIME MINISTER OF GREECE MR. K. MITSOTAKIS ATHENS While these lines are being broadcast, dis peoples aim [illegible text] and their governments, one of the most important instruments of their policy toward peoples. The minority area of the south of our country, through the exodus and departure of its sons, is suffering a real hemorrhage, which can lead to serious economic and moral consequences. We feel great sorrow and regret for this serious wound, but at the same time we are determined to confront it with realism and responsibility. We believe that the causes of this situation must be sought not only in economic difficulties, but also in an artificially encouraged climate, in which certain Greek chauvinist circles have also played a role. We call on the Greek government to refrain from actions that encourage illegal emigration and to intervene to stop any act that harms relations between our two countries. We ask our compatriots not to fall prey to provocations and to preserve calm, dignity, and faith in their future in Albania. Only in this way can further consequences for the families, the community, and our country be avoided. (Continued on page 6)

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that it is seriously concerned by the decision of the Serbian authorities not to allow the continuation of the CSCE mission in Kosovo, Sandžak and Vojvodina. This decision represents a step backward in international efforts to monitor the human rights situation and increases the risk of a worsening of the situation in the region. The Ministry considers this stance unacceptable and calls on the international community to react firmly. It stresses that the presence of the CSCE mission is essential to prevent tensions and to help find peaceful solutions. Albania expresses its solidarity with the people of Kosovo and supports their legitimate rights. The Ministry notes that without the presence of international observers, the situation may worsen further. (Continued on page 5)