It is also an important year for the whole country, since the country enters 1995, the year in which the foundations of a free-market economy have been laid, while the pluralist democratic system is becoming more and more a reality every day. Precisely now and under these conditions the government and the new parliament will do a great deal to strengthen the foundations of the country's economy. We are now on the threshold of 1995, a year that is also considered the year of the consolidation of democracy in the country and of political and economic stability. As is known, the leader of the opposition has been skeptical of the government's policy in dealing with the situation during the past year. The opposition leader himself stated a few days ago that the right-wing majority would collapse in the spring, but throughout last year in parliamentary sessions or in various public discussions he was quite moderate in his statements about the government. Contrary to expectations, he did not repeatedly revive the thesis of an “economic catastrophe,” but stated that the right-wing majority “owes” the people economic growth and improved living conditions. Thus, the Socialists' claims about a “bad year” for the economy have not found support among the public. In fact, the improvements recorded in this period have been evident not only in macroeconomic indicators but also in everyday life. These improvements have been acknowledged not only by the opposition but also by international financial and political bodies. We are at midday in the PD parliamentary group, which is meeting to exchange views on the end of the parliamentary session and on the main objectives of 1995. Present there are the party president Eduard Selami, Prime Minister Aleksandër Meksi, the party vice presidents Genc Pollo and Tritan Shehu, the head of the parliamentary group Ylli Vejsiu, and many other deputies. At this meeting, the senior representatives of the ruling party give various opinions and assessments of the year that has passed and the one that has just begun. Most of the deputies are optimistic about the future and consider 1995 an important year for consolidating the achievements made so far. “In parliament, serious work is under way on packages of laws aimed at deepening reforms and bringing the country closer to European standards,” says one deputy. Another stresses that political stability is a precondition for economic development and that a climate of calm and institutional cooperation must be preserved. According to the discussions held at this meeting, the priority remains economic growth, increased investment, the fight against corruption, and the strengthening of the rule of law. The deputies express their conviction that with the continuation of reforms, greater consolidation of the democratic system and a further improvement in living standards will be achieved. In conclusion, it is noted that 1995 is seen as a year of consolidation of democracy, political and economic stability, and the deepening of reforms in all areas of life in the country.

Comment WASHINGTON/ AFP/ Today the first session of the new American Congress opens, putting into practice the Republicans' promise to “revolutionize” the functioning of the government and parliament. The Republicans, winners of the November elections, have pledged to implement a broad reform program in the first 100 days, a program known as the “Contract with America.” This initiative aims to reduce the role of the federal government, strengthen the family, fight crime, and limit taxes. The Democrats, for their part, have warned that they will oppose any attempt that undermines social programs or citizens' rights. The clash between the two camps is expected to determine the pace of political life in Washington in the coming months. This development is considered a historic day for the American Republicans, as they return to control of Congress after a long absence.

They discuss the main January issue and the general situation of the immunity of deputies Ruli and Uka Yesterday, at midday, the PD parliamentary group met in one of the halls of the Presidency to discuss the latest political developments and parliamentary issues. At the center of the discussions was also the issue of parliamentary immunity, a matter that has aroused great interest in public opinion. After the session, one of the deputies who took part in this meeting said that the discussions had been open and focused on the conclusion of the parliamentary session, as well as on the work program for the month of January. The meeting also mentioned some of the problems encountered in the parliamentary committees and the need for better coordination among them. According to various sources, the meeting also discussed the request to lift the immunity of the deputies Ruli and Uka. This issue was handled carefully and in institutional tones, while the deputies present expressed different opinions regarding the procedures to be followed and the standards to be respected. In addition, the meeting also dealt with other political issues related to the progress of reforms, the political climate in the country, and relations with the opposition. In the end, the participants emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and respecting parliamentary rules.

Regarding social protection for persons with disabilities, field specialists emphasize that this remains one of the most important tasks of the social state. Disability payments, rehabilitation services, and support for their families constitute a necessary cost for society. In the analyses carried out on this issue, it is underlined that there must be a clearer and more sustainable policy for integrating these persons into economic and social life. This means not only financial assistance, but also creating opportunities for education, vocational training, and employment. The responsibility of state institutions, municipalities, and non-governmental organizations is seen as decisive in order to avoid social isolation and guarantee the human dignity of this category. (Continues on page 2)

In the statement made yesterday by the Agricultural Economics Directorate at the Ministry of Agriculture, it is emphasized that on January 8-9, 1995, an important conference dedicated to the vision of the future of agriculture and the food production and distribution industry will be held in Tirana. According to the announcement, representatives of state institutions, producers' associations, the private sector, and foreign experts will take part in this conference. The aim of the meeting is to examine new policies for rural development, the increase of agricultural production, and the improvement of the food processing and distribution system. The organizers underline that reform in agriculture remains one of the main priorities of the Albanian economy and that the conference aims to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and for drafting concrete recommendations for the period ahead. (page 4)

DITEVIZ - B. what is a gentleman called? The bureau issue? Mr. Brozi has officially sent a request to the Minister of Defense dated September 2 and dated 7-15-94... But about which issue? That issue has been widely discussed in the Albanian press in recent days. At the center of the debate is an official correspondence and a series of mutual accusations between the parties. According to the published material, Mr. Brozi claims that he acted in accordance with the law and that his request was well founded. On the other hand, Mr. Dragoshi rejects his opponent's claims and asks for further clarification on the procedures followed. The issue is presented as a public clash between two officials and is expected to be followed by more rebuttals. The newspaper announces that the full material continues on page 7. (Continues on page 7)

Until yesterday, the rabbit and my... today strutting around, like a rooster on manure... Muhamet Predani, I advised him to change his name for himself and speak to half of them? You, Hasko and Solla? I’m telling you this. Although you did not go to court (as you deserve) for the crimes committed against Albania and despite the suffering and consequences that befall you, you would not do badly to hide everywhere in nooks and crannies and to kill yourselves. (page 2) Uran Kostreci replies to the spokespersons, gentlemen Hasko and Sollaku (page 5)