My dear compatriots wherever you are, Brothers and sisters, Ladies and gentlemen, Today, 22 March, throughout the country, Albanians inside and outside the homeland celebrate the day of victory of democracy over the communist dictatorship. On this day, two years ago, with their free vote, Albanians overthrew the most Stalinist dictatorship in Europe and chose the system based on the free vote of the individual and the rule of law. Albania was saved from monism and the rule of the old clique. Two years have passed since that historic day. Two years with many difficulties, with great trials and sacrifices, but also with important achievements. These two years have been years of work, reforms and extraordinary efforts to lift the country out of the ruin into which the communist system had plunged it. Albanians have endured, have sacrificed and have believed in freedom and in their European future. To see clearly the difference between today's Albania and yesterday's Albania, it is enough to remember the state of the country in March 1992. Albania was then on the brink of complete economic and social catastrophe. The markets were empty. Factories and plants were destroyed or paralyzed. The countryside was in deep crisis. People stood in line for their daily bread. Pensions and wages were worthless. Foreign currency was lacking. Foreign debts weighed heavily on the country. Inflation was gnawing away at the life of citizens every day. But after the victory of democracy, with the energy, courage and faith of the Albanian people, the country began to move along the path of recovery. Deep economic and political reforms were undertaken. Political pluralism, a free press and respect for human rights were established. Albania opened itself to the world. Faith in the future was restored. Private property was recognized for its vital role. The free market began to take shape. The foundations of a market economy were laid. In two years, results have been achieved that few would have believed. The finances have been stabilized. Inflation has been curbed. Agricultural production has increased. Great creative energies have been unleashed among the people. Thousands of private businesses have been established. The doors of cooperation with the civilized world have been opened. Albania has returned to the European family and is winning the respect of international partners. We know that many difficulties still remain. There is poverty, unemployment and serious inherited wounds. There are problems with order, infrastructure and administration. There are people who suffer and need support. But no one can deny that the chosen path is the right one and that turning back would be a national tragedy. The forces that lost power on 22 March 1992 have not stopped hindering reforms and democracy. They seek to keep nostalgia for the past alive, to feed hatred and to create insecurity. But the Albanian people have made their choice. They have chosen freedom, pluralism, private property, a market economy, European integration and the rule of law. On this anniversary we honor all those who sacrificed for freedom, those who were imprisoned, interned, persecuted and sacrificed by the communist dictatorship. We honor the martyrs of democracy. We remember with respect the great days of the student movement, the popular protests and the resistance of all those who believed that Albania would become what it is today. Let this day be not only a day of celebration, but also a day of reflection and commitment to more work, honesty and responsibility. Democracy is not an eternal gift; it must be defended and strengthened every day. The rule of law must be consolidated. Institutions must become stronger. The economy must develop further. We must move decisively toward Europe. I have full confidence that the Albanian people will succeed. With wisdom, courage and work, we will make Albania a free, democratic and prosperous country. Let us work together for the future of our children, for the dignity of the nation and for the place we deserve in Europe. Glory to those who fought for freedom! Honor to the Albanian people! Long live democratic Albania! Continued on page 4

5th year of publication No. 608 Wednesday 23 March 1994 Price 5 lekë 1 US$ (USA) 1 DM (Germany) 150 DYX (Greece)

President Berisha discussed the developments and economic transformations taking place in Albania and the progress of economic reforms. The constructive note he made regarding developments in the countries of Eastern Europe was seen by him as evidence of the German people’s conviction of the need to continue reforms and strengthen democratic institutions. The Bavarian CSU chairman assessed the character of our movement and its future with optimism. He said that Albania is a country of special importance for the stabilization of the region. (partially illegible text area)[?]

A beautiful event in the sports ocean of Tirana. Participating among others are the actors of Tirana, Tamara Nikolla, Bujar Kapexhiu, Xhevdet Ferri, Edmond Shllaku, the deputy minister of culture, the deputy director of radio Selami Mrs. Aferdita A..., Aleksandër Meksi, deputies, ministers, judges, artists and businessmen. At the exit of the Sports Ocean of Tirana, writes the chairman of the PDSH center, Edmond Spaho, ... part of them on the podium with President Berisha. (Continued on page 4)