I think the alternative I proposed was the best, but I do not have a monopoly on the truth, and since I believe in democracy, I submit to the will of the majority. Interview with the chairman of the Democratic Party of Albania, Mr. Eduard Selami, given to the editor-in-chief of "RD", Ylli Pollo QUESTION—The two years of the previous government, Mr. Party Chairman, have been full of assessments. What is your assessment? ANSWER—The new policy of the government after the referendum, with which Albania’s return toward the future began, was central in my view. Leaving that aside, I can say that despite the inherited difficulties, the government of the Democratic Party has been the most successful government in the history of the Albanian state, with a very positive record. Certainly there are problems, but people make mistakes. This government knew how to establish the state and restore order. All our opponents now clearly see that Albanians want order and not chaos. It knew how to respond to the urgent needs of the market economy. Inflation is at the lowest levels in Eastern Europe. It knew how to build a pluralist system with independent institutions. QUESTION—Today your opposition speaks of corruption, ties to smuggling and criminal elements. How do you respond? ANSWER—I have heard this. If there are violations of the law, let the justice authorities act. But it is unacceptable for accusations to be made without proof in the name of political struggle. Democracy is not built on slander. QUESTION—Do you think cooperation with other opposition forces is possible? ANSWER—We are open to dialogue with anyone who respects the rules of the democratic game. But with those who are linked to crime, a coalition is impossible. Democracy and crime cannot be together. QUESTION—There have been voices about disagreements within the party. ANSWER—There are debates in every party. That is normal. What matters is that decisions are made democratically and everyone implements them. I proposed what I thought was the best solution, but I do not have a monopoly on the truth and, since I believe in democracy, I submit to the will of the majority. QUESTION—How do you see the country’s political future? ANSWER—The future depends on our ability to strengthen institutions, fight crime, promote the market economy and bring Albania closer to Europe. This is our path.

The Democratic Party organizes the opening of a photographic exhibition involving students, which today at noon in Tirana will be organized in the premises of the “Kavaja” school, within the framework of activities on the occasion of the 4th anniversary of the toppling of dictator Enver Hoxha’s monument. Mari Pini, Puse the Presidency of the Democratic Party, Ilirida e Pustësit, Mësi, the Prefect of Tirana, Shkëlzen Pëllumbi and on Tuesday there will be deputies and other members of the government Photo: Oriana Taso

Merging the center of current affairs and propaganda PDSH. Sokol Aluko, member of the presidency and head of propaganda, reported on the national activity and the new work goals. In the discussions it was said that information structures and work with the grassroots should be strengthened. (continued on page 2)

Statement by the 20 main forces of the Economic Forum of the Democratic Party (continued on page 2)

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