The European Union will continue to help Albania in infrastructure and other areas. European Parliament - the year of incorrect information on the Nano case The European Union will continue to help Albania in infrastructure and other areas. European Parliament - the year of incorrect information on the Nano case - Interview with President Berisha after returning from Brussels - Question: Mr. President, what is the importance of signing the “Partnership for Peace” agreement? Answer: Each of the situations you mentioned had its own importance. Mr. Solana, before I left for Brussels, told me: “Partnership for Peace” is to obtain military assistance from NATO. That is true, but not the whole truth. If Albania signs this document, it means it is defining its orientation toward Western structures. So, by signing this document, Albania defines itself as a Western country. For the other Eastern countries that have signed this document, it is less important than it is for us. Albania itself has never been a member of the Warsaw Pact. Nevertheless, after 50 years it finally emerged almost from the communist camp of extreme isolation, the most isolated country. Albania broke away from the communist camp, but it created a return of it. Even so, Albania seeks to define its identity. It is undergoing a very major historical test and, in this context, “Partnership for Peace” has extraordinary importance for our country. Question: Various comments have been made in the Western press, according to which Albania supported Russia’s inclusion in “Partnership for Peace”, as well as Mr. Solana’s words that “No Eastern European country has the right of veto over NATO decisions.” Answer: I discussed with Mr. Solana Russia’s interest in “Partnership for Peace”, in which it has a great interest; as a major European power it should also have its position there. On the other hand, Albania is interested in having as many countries as possible involved in this process, because that serves stability. But that does not mean that any country has the right of veto over NATO decisions. Question: What was your discussion with the chairman of the European Union Commission, Jacques Delors, and what help can Albania expect? Answer: We discussed infrastructure projects, roads, energy, and other areas where the European Union can continue to help Albania. There was positive readiness for continued support. Question: And regarding the Nano case and a resolution of the European Parliament? Answer: Incorrect information was presented about the Nano case. I explained this issue, and I believe our position was better understood. ATSH

A 900-person organization set up to extort fines amounting to nearly 45 million lek, has been arrested. On Friday, the trial began at the Court of Cassation of the former Deputy Minister of the Interior, “Xh. Vokshi” Tirana, and of a group of organizers. This gangster scheme was led by Maksim Frangaj, including Vjosë Leka, who, according to the prosecution, had profited legally from the frauds. During the first session, the prosecutor and the defense spoke. Leka was accused of unlawful gains, while Frangaj was named as the main organizer. According to the data, the group had operated in Tirana and other cities. The next hearing will be held next week. RD correspondent

- The accuser on which it was based - In parliament, a “criminal indictment” is being discussed regarding a series of compensations and smuggling cases. 14.2 million lek were damaged, 678 lek insured. The Prosecutor General’s Office has stated that the damage caused amounted to 910 million lek. Investigations are continuing and various people have been questioned. According to the initial data, the scheme was linked to several private enterprises and to unlawful activities. The prosecution has sent the materials to parliament for review. (Continues on page 2)

At the Ministry of Labor, Emigration and Social Welfare, we learned that: - A new decision is also issued for category 2P - In addition to some explanatory articles about the granting of economic assistance, we believe that publishing this information will also be useful. According to specialists from the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, recipients of economic assistance have the right to request the necessary information on how it is calculated. The Economic Assistance Directorate is launching an awareness campaign. In January and February, funds were released for overdue payments. A new decision also provides for treatment for category 2P. The economic assistance offices in the districts have been instructed to strictly apply the rules. ZEJ LESHI

An industry for melting down 2P “Rebuilt Albania” In a report on a new plant, images of the department and of work in industry are presented. The material describes the capacities, technology, and expectations for production. It is emphasized that the investment is part of the efforts for economic reconstruction. NATO-8 An industry for melting down 2P “Rebuilt Albania”

Kosovo - 260 new members have joined the Democratic Party in Kukës just recently, and 36 of them are intellectuals. Sarandë - During the month of January, 84 new members joined the Democratic Party, 23 of them teachers. Maliq - From the beginning of the 16th to 23 February, 98 young people joined the Democratic Party.