Changes in political, economic and social life make it possible for society to care for humanitarian problems SPEECH BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PD PARLIAMENTARY GROUP, MR. ALI SPAHIA Honourable Mr. Chairman, Honourable deputies, It is a great honour for me to take the floor on behalf of the Parliamentary Group of the Democratic Party to express our approval of and support for the draft law “On amnesty”, submitted yesterday by the group of 25 PD deputies, who represent a large part of its deputies in the Assembly. First, this amnesty, which aims to rehabilitate those convicted of criminal offences carrying sentences of up to 8 years, and those punished with imprisonment of up to 5 years, also takes into account the welfare of mothers with children, the elderly and the sick. It has a strongly humanitarian character, because it will ease the pain and wound of part of Albanian families who have had relatives convicted. Therefore, in the conditions of Albania, with the changes that have taken place in political, economic and social life, it is natural for society to have the opportunity and strength to pay more attention to humanitarian problems. Second, on this occasion, I would like to stress that this draft law, proposed by a large group of deputies, is in full harmony with the policy of the government and of the parliamentary majority to improve the social climate and encourage national reconciliation. Third, it is important that this amnesty be understood correctly and not misinterpreted as a concession to crime. On the contrary, it is an expression of the maturity of the democratic state, which knows how to combine the enforcement of the law with mercy and humanism. Precisely in this spirit and with this responsibility before the citizens, the PD Parliamentary Group fully supports this initiative. Honourable Mr. Chairman, Honourable deputies, I also wish to underline something else. In the process of building the rule-of-law state, amnesty is a recognized legal instrument, used at certain historical moments to create a calmer, more trustworthy and more cooperative climate in society. From this perspective, it will also positively affect the process of integrating convicted individuals into the normal life of society. 11 deputies ALI SPAHIA

"I am very impressed by the love of freedom that exists in Albania" Dear Mr. President, I do not know how to place in its proper context the decisive role that was played in our verdict, in strengthening my decision to intervene, that unquenched enthusiasm, that unshakeable faith of the Albanian people in democracy and freedom. This energy, this national feeling and love for the homeland, gave strength and encouragement to my decision to intervene so that the good things could be saved. This atmosphere left a deep impression on me. President Bush

NDERRE GJINI ... [?] It ended that 13 years of struggle against illiteracy would be successfully crowned soon with the historic victory of the Albanian school and the teaching of the mother tongue. This was one of the greatest victories of the time. In the following period, the people faced other difficulties, but the aspiration for freedom and knowledge remained strong. In this atmosphere, teachers were trained, schools were opened and work was organized for the spread of education. The will of the people and the help of intellectuals made it possible for the Albanian language to take the place it deserved. This process also brought important changes in national consciousness and in social life.

SPEECH BY MR. TOMOR DOSTI ... [?] This text is partly unreadable in the image. Scattered fragments of a speech in the Assembly about amnesty are visible, with references to law, humanism, society and the rule of law. Readable parts: “... law ...”, “... society ...”, “... human ...”, “... justice ...”.

Yesterday it emerged that the purpose of this meeting was to examine the most important problems that were preoccupying the opposition and the role it plays in the political and social life of the country. At this meeting it was emphasized that cooperation among political forces is essential in order to face the challenges of the democratic transition and to ensure institutional stability. Representatives of the parties expressed their readiness for dialogue and understanding.

Statement of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs ZEFI NDESH SOKOL VALLA If one day you were to lose freedom, it is very precious in all countries; we have experienced this for centuries. Being far from your country and your family is a wound that requires not only understanding but also concrete help from institutions. We assure you that we will be your voice before state bodies and will work to protect your rights. (The article continues on page 6) On page 6

Reception of the President President Berisha receives German artists Reception of the President Meeting of President Berisha with French senators AND DIPERMANDIT FRANE DRANONIT XHORXH BUSH