After Mr. Papandis’s visit to Tirana Foreign analyst Erik Fajon writes that the government of Andreas Papandreou may have repeated the usual saying that “old neighbors cannot choose the neighborhood where they live,” but in truth it could not ignore such a reality. This means that the key to future Greek-Albanian relations must be sought in dialogue and in a spirit of understanding. And apparently, Mr. Papandreou and his Foreign Minister, Karolos Papulias, have left this message to their successors. The path to removing the accumulated clouds of conflict and rooting out the consequences of absurd attitudes from the past is laid out. In Tirana, the Greek prime minister made it clear that he harbors no dreams of megalo-idea or territorial claims. Those belong to a bygone era. It seems that it has been decided not to give any negative sign that would hold hostage the future of bilateral relations. This means that both sides must take their share of responsibility in order to get out of the dead end. In any case, the crossroads is no longer an obstacle; on the contrary, it can become a meeting point. There are also encouraging signs regarding the minority issue. It has been stated from Athens that good relations with Tirana are in the best interest of the Greek minority itself. This weakens the argument that it could be used as a tool of political pressure. If this spirit continues, the practical solution of problems will be easier. Albania needs economic and cultural cooperation with its neighbors, while Greece has an interest in stability on its northern border. Another important development is the fact that the visit has helped calm public opinion and bring positions closer together. The new climate requires patience, composure, and mutual respect. There is no place for heated rhetoric or unnecessary historical nostalgia. If the first steps have produced positive results, then there is reason to believe that the future can be built on more realistic foundations. Translated from the foreign press [?]

The President of the Republic, Berisha, received the Greek Foreign Minister, Karolos Papulias The President of the Republic, Sali Berisha, expressed to the Greek Foreign Minister, Karolos Papulias, his satisfaction at the change in the climate of relations between our two countries. In yesterday’s meeting, President Berisha described the visit of the Greek prime minister as an event of special importance and emphasized that it marks the opening of a new page in Albanian-Greek relations. He underlined that the path of dialogue and cooperation is the only path that serves peace, stability, and the interests of our peoples. The President stressed that Albania is interested in good-neighborly relations with Greece and in the consensual resolution of all remaining issues. He pointed out that respect for human rights and democratic standards is the basis on which long-term cooperation can be built. For his part, the Greek Foreign Minister, Karolos Papulias, expressed his conviction that the visit of the Greek prime minister to Tirana will provide a new impetus for the development of bilateral relations. He praised the role of President Berisha and emphasized the importance of a calm political climate in the region. Photo: A. Babani

Speaking about the importance of improving Albanian-Greek relations, the Greek Foreign Minister, Karolos Papulias, stressed that the new climate is also in the interest of the Greek minority itself in Albania. He said that normalization of relations helps solve concrete problems and removes the ground for misunderstandings or political instrumentalization. In this spirit, mutual respect and ongoing communication remain essential elements. Papulias assessed that the region needs calm and cooperation, not artificial tensions. He suggested that official Athens considers the stability of Albania and the region to be a shared interest.

It seems that today, sanctions, austerity policies, and pressure no longer please anyone. At the very least, they are being replaced by a more pragmatic spirit. During his visit to Tirana, the Greek prime minister spoke about the need to open a new stage in relations with Albania. It is clear that this requires more realism and fewer prejudices. Instead of threatening tones or ultimatum demands, cooperation, stability, and understanding are coming to the forefront. The future of the region cannot be built on old enmities. This change in approach has also found resonance in diplomatic circles and in the international media. The visit was seen as a sign of a possible rapprochement between the two countries, despite the fact that the problems have not disappeared completely. On the contrary, they require more patience and political courage. (continued on page 2)

The Greek Foreign Minister, Papulias, also met with Albanian deputies As part of his visit to Tirana, the Greek Foreign Minister Karolos Papulias also held meetings with representatives of Albanian political life. During the talks, the importance of parliamentary dialogue and the need to strengthen mutual trust were discussed. The Albanian deputies stressed that good relations with Greece should be built on respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and human rights. For his part, Papulias pointed out that the friendship between the two peoples is a fact that must be supported by concrete actions. Both sides expressed the view that more frequent contacts will help overcome obstacles and build a more stable atmosphere of cooperation. (continued on page 2)

The Martyrs of Martire Libohova People dissatisfied with the country’s direction Bad news Doke denounces Albania The KGB at the service of Albanian Enverists

I learned with great sorrow of the death of Academician Gazmend Zajmi. A distinguished scientific personality and a steadfast patriot in the efforts for the independence of Kosovo and more broadly across all Albanian lands, Academician Gazmend Zajmi was a respected figure in our national life. I express my deepest condolences to the family of the deceased, to the Academy of Sciences of Kosovo, and to the entire Albanian people of Kosovo. Sali Berisha President of the Republic of Albania Press and Information Office attached to the President (Continued on page 2)