The discussion on behalf of the parliamentary group of the PD on the government's medium-term programs By Genc Ruli, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Economy and Budget The heads of the sections and the chambers of commerce believe that privatization of enterprises should be carried out “without losing time.” Mr. Xh [?] Koçolli described them as “very important for the country’s economy,” but expressed the view that they could have been more complete and clearer. Mr. Bashkim Fino [?] assessed the programs as “necessary and of particular importance,” proposing changes in the way they are drafted. He said that the programs “must have clarity in their objectives and in the instruments for achieving them.” Ms. Jozefina Topalli [?] focused on the issue of agriculture and the need for a longer-term vision for its development. According to her, “the development of the free market also requires clear rules and real support.” Business representatives emphasized that economic reform requires continuity, stability, and greater investor confidence. The need for rapid privatization, the reduction of bureaucratic obstacles, and the encouragement of domestic production was discussed. The discussion pointed out that the Albanian transition has entered a new phase, where more clearly defined policies are needed for economic growth, the improvement of financial balances, and increased employment. It was stressed that the government must harmonize short-term and medium-term objectives while maintaining monetary and fiscal stability. (Continued on page 2)

From President Berisha's visit to Turkey On April 4, 1994, the President of the Republic of Albania, Mr. Sali Berisha, arrived in Turkey for an official visit at the invitation of the President of the Republic of Turkey, Suleyman Demirel. After that, the two presidents held a broad meeting in Istanbul in which the most important issues of bilateral cooperation were discussed. The two presidents praised the very good level of political relations between the two countries and expressed the will to further intensify them in all areas of mutual interest. The official talks also dealt with economic relations, opportunities to expand trade exchanges, increase investments, and cooperation in transport, telecommunications, and tourism. The importance of the role of private business in economic development and in bringing the two countries closer together was emphasized. President Berisha also held meetings with senior representatives of the Turkish state and business circles. The visit was assessed as an important step in strengthening Albanian-Turkish relations and in creating new opportunities for bilateral cooperation. REPUBLIC OF ALBANIA AT A MEETING WITH PRESIDENT SULEYMAN DEMIREL IN TURKEY Exchanges of high-level political delegations in 1992, 1993, and early 1994 have contributed to increasing communication and to a better understanding of the mutual interests of the two countries. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations with Turkey in 1923 and onward, especially in recent years, there has been positive development in these relations. Turkey was among the first countries to support Albania in the process of democratic reforms and the market economy. Important sectors of cooperation are defense, the economy, education, culture, and transport. Regional issues and the role of the two countries in strengthening stability in the Balkans were also discussed. NaTAMI BERISHA NE BRISA MILLER JAVJJA EKONOMIKE me Zoran Draskovic [? (Continued on page 2)

The conflict in Strefi files a criminal complaint against Ligor Dhama and Zenel Hoxha The head of the Chamber of Commerce and [industry] took home [?]. The report of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (probably) shows how certain managers have arbitrarily administered the institution's funds and assets. In a lengthy report, violations in administration, inaccurate reporting of income, and irresponsible use of financial resources are presented. According to the documents, the case concerns payments without backing, irregular cash inflows and outflows, lack of supporting documentation, and the use of premises for purposes unrelated to the institution's function. A series of decisions taken outside statutory competences is also mentioned. The complaint requests the initiation of criminal proceedings against Ligor Dhama and Zenel Hoxha. The case is related to accusations of misappropriation, abuse of office, and economic damage to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The internal conflict in the institution has prompted numerous reactions and calls for transparency. (Continued on page 2)

The delegation of the Presidency of the European Union arrived in Albania The delegation of the Presidency of the European Union, headed by Mr. Hansi van den Broek, arrived in Albania and held meetings with high-ranking Albanian personalities. The visit was presented as an indication of Europe’s growing interest in Albania and its democratic processes. At the center of the talks were Albania-EU relations, prospects for institutional rapprochement, and support for economic and political reforms. The importance of consolidating the rule of law, political stability, and gradual integration into European structures was highlighted. (Continued on page 2)

2. Nano claims to win the status of political prisoner JUSTICE [?] (Coming in the next issue)

"Finish! - a plague or our former acquaintances in the PS-" After the conflictual situations in the PS and the different positions regarding its political orientation, new contradictions are continuously emerging. The article refers to internal splits, departures, and the loss of the opposition profile. The text says that the traditional left-wing electorate is feeling uncertain and that a part of the former sympathizers has lost confidence. Various political figures and debates about the party's strategic directions are mentioned. The author presents the development as an unstoppable process of political and ideological shrinkage. The lack of cohesion and inability to offer a credible alternative are underlined. KORRESP. I RD