In defense of the law “On compensation in value for former owners of agricultural land” The democratic movement of the 1990s, as a major counterreaction of the revolt and the anti-communist revolutions against the Stalinist and totalitarian system in Albania, also included agrarianism, but agrarian reforms had remained incomplete for many years. The clear definition of property rights and the ways to remedy the injustices committed against former owners became part of the reform program. Within this framework, the law on compensation in value for former owners of agricultural land has been the subject of debate. It is argued that this law does not seek to overturn the new land reform, but to compensate in other forms those who were harmed by earlier expropriations. The experience of other countries in Eastern Europe shows that transition processes are painful, but necessary. Albania cannot remain outside European standards of private property and the rule of law. This is not about the immediate physical return of land in all cases, but about compensation in value, which makes the law more workable and less conflictual. Otherwise, another black-and-white post-communist revolution would be needed. If Albanian society aims for reconciliation and development, it must accept that historical injustices cannot remain unaddressed. The law is an effort to establish a balance between the public interest, social stability, and individual rights. (A. B.)

-statement by the Greek prime minister, Mr. Kostandin Micotaqis, at his meeting with President Berisha- They write about his jokes The Prime Minister: “The Stability Pact” must first be implemented in the Balkans The Prime Minister said that President Berisha regarded the meeting as having no particular interest, since, according to him, Albanians in Greece work in his country and should be paid not with a salary, but with food and shelter. In the evening, the same ones “For compensation in value for former owners of agricultural land” GOOD Qazim Mulleti, what? [?] Qazim Mulleti President Berisha spoke first of all about the overall climate of relations between Albania and Greece. Sali Berisha assessed the meeting as very positive. The Greek Prime Minister said that “after this meeting our future relations with Albania will be strengthened”. He added that “together with the Albanian government and the Albanian people we will continue step by step and with trust”. (ATSH)

The extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador to the Holy See, Vili Minarolli, presented his credentials to Pope John Paul II. In his remarks at the ceremony, the Albanian ambassador emphasized the importance of relations with the Holy See and the role it can play for peace, understanding, and the moral support of the Albanian people. Pope John Paul II expressed satisfaction with developments in Albania and with the strengthening of cooperation with its institutions. (ATSH)

RRAKË SUQE Then, they did the “deed”; today they are reaping its fruit. The years of transition are bringing to justice people linked to the abuses of the past. Well-known names from the administration and state enterprises are facing investigations for abuse of office and corruption. Against this backdrop, public opinion sees it as essential that those responsible for the communist period not remain untouchable. A change of system is not enough; justice is also needed for stolen assets and illegal privileges. Many of these “generals” of corruption hoped that time would spare them. But the new legal proceedings and the will for transparency are putting them back at the center of attention. If the rule of law is to have meaning, it must strike not only political opponents, but also those who have harmed the public interest through abuse of power. KONVESI I PDP

-The International Center of the House is inaugurated two days before the pope’s visit to Albania.- Yesterday, in a renovated building on “Myslym Shyri” street in Tirana, a new center with a cultural and humanitarian character was inaugurated. The event took place within the framework of preparations for the visit of Pope John Paul II to Albania. The organizers emphasized that the center aims to serve as a meeting point for social, educational, and religious initiatives. The pope’s visit is seen as an event of special importance for the country, especially for its opening to the world and its rapprochement with Europe. In the welcoming speeches, the innovative profile of Pope John Paul II and his commitment to freedom, human dignity, and dialogue among peoples were highlighted. KONVESI I PDP