From the visit of the PDSH delegation to Italy The path is being opened for the revival and cooperation between the two parties. Azzini: We are politically interested in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries During the official visit to Italy of the chairman of the PDSH, Mr. Sulku, and the delegation led by him, the political secretary of the PPI, Ecolo Scanio, expressed his party’s interest in strengthening ties with the PDSH. Before we sign some kind of agreement, he said, we expect you to get to know us and understand more clearly what our system is really like. The visit of the PPI political secretary was positively assessed, and he gave an overview of the ideological and organizational concepts of this party. He stated that the PPI is a center-right party, which is part of the center-right governing coalition. After talks with Mr. Sulku, he praised the creation of close political relations between the two parties. Within this framework, the chairman of the PDSH, Mr. Sulku, presented the Albanian economic and political situation, as well as this party’s program for the development of Albania. He described the PDSH as a conservative party with a clear vision for the country’s future. Mr. Sulku also outlined some of the problems Albanian society has gone through during these years of transition, stressing the need for greater cooperation with sister parties in Europe. The meeting with deputy Azzini and other Italian officials took place in a spirit of understanding. Azzini emphasized that Italy is politically interested in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries and in supporting democratic processes in Albania. Later, the PDSH delegation also held meetings with other Italian political representatives. These meetings discussed the role of the PDSH on the Albanian political scene, the challenges of the right wing, and the importance of ongoing contacts between the two countries. It was stressed that good political relations should also be accompanied by increased economic, cultural, and social exchanges. The PDSH will continue to work to expand its international contacts and to build bridges of cooperation with center-right parties in Europe.

It is now clear that the entire campaign of insults and slander against the PDSH and the democratic government in the media, in certain circles of foreign politics and in various circles of our country, because of the boycott of Parliament and the pressure of foreign organizations and some mafia clans, has been used with a clear political purpose. Instead of serving to strengthen the democratic opposition, these attacks have stirred up more instability and artificial clashes. As for the insinuations about secret financial support, these are part of the same scenario aimed at discrediting political opponents. The PDSH has always considered these attacks unfounded and politically motivated. In public opinion it is becoming increasingly evident that the aim of this whole campaign is not transparency, but the obstruction of a growing political force.

The spokesperson of the Court of Appeal announced that, regarding certain interpretations in the press, the decisions taken by this court are in accordance with legal procedures and do not have a political character. He stressed that the independence of the judiciary is a fundamental principle of the rule of law and that any attempt to call this principle into question undermines public confidence. According to the clarification, any comment made without referring to official documentation creates unnecessary confusion. The media were called upon to show care and to respect institutions.

President Berisha yesterday received the delegation led by the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Mr. Zoran Thaler. The meeting discussed bilateral relations between the two countries, developments in the region, and issues of economic cooperation. President Berisha expressed appreciation for the support that Slovenia has given Albania in international forums and pointed out the importance of expanding political and economic contacts. Slovenia added that the countries of Southeast Europe need stability and further integration into European structures. (Continues on page 2)

Yesterday morning the Chairman of the Agrarian Party and 3[?]011 peasant of the Agrarian Party, Mr. Vangjel Dule, whose leadership in this district, as well as other members, held a press conference on the problems of agriculture. At the center of the discussion were subsidies, loans, and the market for produce. It was stressed that Albanian farmers face numerous difficulties and that the government must take more concrete measures to support them.

The arbiter and key events in Albania in the hands of [?] in the Albanian republic of justice From time to time in various newspapers and in certain public statements, Brozi’s name has been mentioned in connection with Albanian justice issues. According to the author, some of the positions held by him have created confusion and encouraged political interpretations. The article argues that justice must remain independent of political influence and that any involvement outside the institutional framework damages its credibility.

Sherper [?] in the field with equipment, medical support and observation, direct assistance, operational index. The joint Albanian-American exercise code-named "Sarex '95-2" concluded successfully. It was carried out with the participation of Albanian and American forces. During the exercise, search-and-rescue operations, medical transport, and coordination between different structures were carried out. The exercise was assessed as an important step in increasing the professional capacities of the participating forces and in strengthening military cooperation between Albania and the United States. (Continues on page 2)

Zef Brozi has been a controversial figure in Albanian public life, and his name has often been used in various polemics. This article raises the question of whether a role for him is returning in current political and legal debates. The author notes that the continued mention of Brozi’s name in the media and in various circles creates the impression of a symbolic return to the public scene. (Continues on page 2)

On Monday, 24 July, a delegation from the USA will stay in Albania at the invitation of bilateral cooperation. The delegation includes various political and institutional representatives. The visit is seen as an opportunity to strengthen ties between Albania and the USA, as well as to discuss issues of mutual interest.