Speech by President Berisha at the reception given in Durres on 10 January 1994, on the occasion of the New Year, for the diplomatic corps in Tirana. Distinguished Excellencies! Distinguished representatives of the diplomatic corps! Ladies and gentlemen! Mr. Secretary Sali Berisha, ladies and gentlemen, I greet you warmly and express my greetings and those of the Albanian people for the New Year 1994. The year just passed, 1993, marked important years for Albania in terms of the changes our country undertook on the path of building a free, democratic society and a market economy. During the past year, Albania and the Albanians made serious efforts, which brought tangible results in the process of consolidating democratic institutions and economic reform. These efforts were accompanied by the stabilization of public order, the return of calm to daily life, visible progress in production, circulation, finances, infrastructure, and the country’s opening to the world. On this path, we have moved forward with determination, albeit not without difficulties. The difficulties have been great, because we inherited a devastated economy, weak institutions, and the serious consequences of long isolation. But the desire for freedom, democracy, and European integration has been stronger than any obstacle. Today’s Albania has made clear steps forward. It is building new relations with its neighbors and with all international partners in the spirit of equality, mutual respect, and understanding. My country’s foreign policy is oriented toward peace, cooperation, and security in the region. Albania wishes for and supports the peaceful resolution of all problems and opposes any attempt at imposition, violence, or destabilization. We are determined to contribute to peace and stability in the Balkans by developing good neighborly relations with all countries. Albania supports human rights, fundamental freedoms, minority rights, and respect for international norms. It is always ready to deepen the spirit of understanding, mutual and friendly cooperation in relations with all countries. In this framework, we value the help and support that our friends in the world have given the Albanian people during this important period of transition. I thank the representatives of your countries for their contribution to the development of relations with Albania and for the support they have given to democratic processes in our country. I wish you all a happy New Year, health, and success in your duties. Thank you!

With a not very optimistic conclusion, the second session of the PPD political symposium is being brought to a close, where the conditions for the integration of democratic forces in Europe were discussed. At a meeting of the “Troika,” it was announced that the PPD must be a parallel structure of a political force that will represent the interests of the intellectual strata and entrepreneurs, spreading throughout the entire country. The PPD’s policy will be one of the centre-right, with the market economy as its main orientation. The PPD will be a constitutional party, which is and will continuously remain in coalition with the PD, having in its program the principle of reciprocity and respect for obligations toward the state and the law. Today’s activity presented some of the priorities this party will have in the future, with emphasis that it must appear on the political scene with a clear program and a functional statute. Regarding the organization of the congress, it was announced that it will be held at the end of January. The congress will approve the party’s basic documents and its governing bodies.

-Speech by Mr. George Mirkovich, dean of the foreign ambassador corps- Nevertheless, with neighboring countries, the entire sphere of diplomatic and economic relations has developed rapidly, which has brought Albania closer to Europe in terms of democracy and economic development. Albania is moving along the path of stability and reforms. During 1993, the country made important steps in building democratic institutions and strengthening public order. Although difficulties remain, the outlook for the future is clearer and more hopeful. The Albanian people have shown great energy and determination to overcome the obstacles of the past and to build a more open and fair society. In this context, the international community has followed Albania’s progress with attention and sympathy and has supported its efforts for integration into Euro-Atlantic structures. I would also like to emphasize that cooperation with the Albanian government and the country’s institutions has been fruitful. This creates a good basis for further intensification of relations in all fields. Albania is today closer than ever to Europe and the civilized world. For this, it deserves further congratulations and encouragement.

Soon 1/4 of the population will pay customs duties with VAT?! Various voices in public discussions have said that the current tax system should undergo further changes to adapt to the developments of the market economy. Among the proposals put forward is one to shift part of the tax burden more strongly onto value-added tax, VAT, while customs duties and other taxes are reviewed. Some specialists believe that such a scheme would bring more revenue into the budget and simplify tax administration, while others warn of consequences in rising prices and in the population’s purchasing power. The debate remains open and an official decision from the relevant authorities is expected. If the change is approved, it will have a direct impact on consumption, trade, and business activity.

Genc Petrika, Urban planning and construction improvements (continued in the next issue) Tirana, 10 January 1994. The urban supply and construction system needs faster reforms. On the Tiranë-Vorë axis, many procedural and bureaucratic shortcomings have been identified that hinder the swift resolution of problems for citizens and private entities. In some cases, administrative delays have had consequences for investments and public services. Better coordination is needed between local bodies and the structures responsible for urban planning, as well as a review of the current regulations. Only in this way can conditions be created for a more rational and efficient development of the area.

Continued from the issue of 12 January 1994