- Speech by Mr. Sali Berisha on the occasion of the presentation of the novel “Mugujt e Evropës” by Pjetër Arbnori - Ladies and gentlemen, For our publication, for the era we are living in, for the greatest aspiration of the Albanian nation, for Europe, to which we wish to return as soon as possible, the symbol of freedom and democratic civilization, there is a special meaning. Europe, the heart of world civilization, to which free Europe and the free world are powerfully returning, remains for us Albanians, who for half a century experienced the hell of dictatorship, the polar star of our national orientation. Today I feel pleased and honored to be here in the premises of the People’s Assembly of the Republic of Albania at the presentation of the novel “Mugujt e Evropës” by the writer and politician Pjetër Arbnori. Naturally, not only because of the friendship that binds me to him, not only because of the value of his work, one of the latest publications in contemporary Albanian literature, but above all because of the profound and timeless message it conveys. Artistic expression has been and remains one of the most powerful means of human communication. It expands the spiritual space of human beings, giving them the opportunity to penetrate new dimensions of experience and consciousness. Through art we understand more clearly not only individual destiny, but also the collective destiny of our societies. The novel “Mugujt e Evropës” comes at a time when Albania is opening up to the world, overcoming isolation and trying to build a new democratic order. In this sense, Pjetër Arbnori’s work is significant not only from a literary point of view, but also in civic and national terms. It speaks of memory, dignity, suffering, and hope. Pjetër Arbnori is a well-known figure in our public life. He is a writer who has known how to preserve the sensibility of the artist even in the most difficult periods, but also a politician who has understood the importance of culture in the emancipation of society. That is why it is no coincidence that his voice comes across as strong and credible. On the pages of this novel are reflected not only individual dramas, but also the anxiety and expectations of an entire people. There we find the dilemmas, wounds and dreams of Albanians on the eve of major historical changes. This makes the work close to the reader and at the same time meaningful for the times. We need books that help us understand more clearly the roots of the past and the challenges of the future. We need art that ennobles us, gives us hope and makes us more responsible toward ourselves and toward the nation. In this sense, art expands the spiritual space of human beings. In greeting the publication of the novel “Mugujt e Evropës”, I wish that this work may find many readers and take the place it deserves in our contemporary literature. I also wish that Mr. Pjetër Arbnori continues to give us other works important for Albanian culture. Thank you.

On Wednesday in the district of Lushnjë, accompanied by the district secretary, comrade Jashar Murati, and the secretary of the group section, Mr. Kastriot Xhaferri, the son of the first secretary of the district of Lushnjë, Mr. Safet Xhaferri, both of them sons from honest and patriotic families, Mr. Salimi made a visit to the communes of Zeranq and Luznisë. In meetings with residents he discussed the problems of agriculture, irrigation, land, and the organization of life in the village. The residents expressed their interest in roads, schools, healthcare, and the support that should be given to farmers. Mr. Salimi stressed that the government and local structures would be closer to citizens and that the development of rural areas remains a priority. (continued on page 12)

From the speech of Mr. Sali Berisha at the Zërësipt[?] and at Lulisë[?] In government we understand that if we want to carry out major changes, we must know how to address all social strata and make them part of the transformation process. PD remains the force that has taken on this historical mission. In these years it has faced difficulties, obstacles and opposition, but it has managed to remain steadfast on the path of reforms. We have chosen the path of freedom, property, law and the market economy. This path is not easy, but it is the only path that gives Albania the chance to become part of democratic Europe. Therefore, the Democratic Party is a serious force for changing the historical course of Albania. (continued on page 4)

The black market fears that the embargo will not last long, because it is weighing down the economic situation and isolating the country from cooperation with its neighbors

WE MUST LIVE IN NEIGHBORLINESS; WE MUST SOLVE OUR PROBLEMS THROUGH DIALOGUE.

On Saturday, 18.09.1993, the chairman of the Social Democratic Party, Mr. Paskal Milo, will hold a press conference at the Palace of Congresses.