- The Socialist Party parliamentary group and 6 independent deputies vote "against", while the group of PDS deputies "abstains" Yesterday morning the People’s Assembly approved in principle the draft law "On the Press" by 78 votes in favor, 7 against, and 14 abstentions. The PD deputies’ discussions concerning this draft law were linked to the need to create a free environment for the press and the right to expression. In the discussions it was emphasized that a free press is an essential condition for a democratic society and for public oversight of power. It was also stressed that the draft law aims to define general rules for periodical publications, the rights and obligations of publishers and journalists, as well as their legal protection. The Socialist Party parliamentary group and 6 independent deputies voted against the draft law, while the group of PDS deputies abstained. During the debate, differing positions were presented on the specific wording of the law, the role of the court, the registration of publications, and the responsibilities in the event of violations. Some deputies called for the law to more clearly guarantee the right to information and to avoid any possibility of administrative restrictions on the press. The draft law will be further examined article by article in upcoming sessions.

- Interview given by Dr. Mathias von Bismarck, Vice President of the State Parliament of Saxony, of the Land of Saxony, to the journalist of "Rilindja Demokratike", Mr. Preç Zogaj. In particular, politically speaking, Albania’s democratic process is moving at a satisfactory pace. Economically, the country is facing major difficulties, but serious steps have been taken toward market reform and monetary stabilization. Albania has earned respect in Europe for the consistency of its reform course. Dr. Mathias von Bismarck assesses that Albania, compared with other Eastern European countries, has made significant progress in building democratic institutions. He emphasizes the importance of cooperation with Western countries and of political and economic support for the Albanian transition. The interview also addresses issues of investment, regional stability, and Albania’s European perspective. (Continues on page 4)

- The communists demand revenge against the democrats. F. Nano, Zhego, Z. Pëpa, S. Reka, etc. mock the perennial discussion of outlawing the PD in a roundabout way Although they acknowledge that Shkodër and the tragic events caused by the dirty war of all sides rightly constitute a serious blow to the credibility of the parliamentary political forces, some deputies of the left-wing opposition continue to foster a climate of political revenge. In yesterday’s discussions in the Assembly, F. Nano and other deputies sought to revive the idea of outlawing the Democratic Party. This stance was rejected as unacceptable and anti-democratic by deputies of the majority, who stressed that individual responsibilities cannot be used to strike at political pluralism. The debate was accompanied by harsh tones and mutual accusations of inciting conflict. Other names such as Zhego, Z. Pëpa, and S. Reka were also mentioned, and it was said that such discussions harm public calm and the democratic process in the country. (Continues on page 6)

The Presidency of the Republic of Albania, President Prof. Dr. Sali Berisha, received the President of the European Parliament, Mr. Egon Klech, at the head of a government delegation. President Berisha held a conversation with Mr. Egon Klech, during which the progress of democratic and economic processes in Albania was discussed. The President of the European Parliament was briefed on developments in the country and expressed the appreciation of the European institutions for the steps taken in Albania. The President of the Republic welcomed the support that the European Parliament has given Albania. (ATSH)