President Berisha's statement for TVSH I now appreciate that it is a pleasure to be among you this evening. I was somewhat surprised by the degree of attention shown here by the foreign media to the 5th anniversary of the founding of the PD. This anniversary represents for us not only a jubilee of a political force but also of a new period, a new period in the history of Albania. The 1990s mark for us the period of democracy and freedom after 50 years of dictatorship. This is a time of the Albanian nation's colossal achievements, if we consider the miserable state from which it began its road to freedom. The truth is that it is the objective of our society as a whole not only to raise the monument of freedom and democracy, but also to ensure its European dimensions. What you stated about a possible separation of Albania from Europe is not real. On the contrary, the efforts and determination of the Albanian government and the country's democratic forces remain clearly oriented toward integration into Euro-Atlantic and European structures. It should not be forgotten that this period was also a period of major transformations, of challenges and harsh confrontations, but at the same time also a period of increased civic and political responsibility. It is essential for Albanian political forces to show democratic culture, to respect the institutions and the results of free elections. Only in this way can Albania move further along its path toward stability and development. Within this framework I want to emphasize that the Democratic Party has demonstrated its deeply democratic character, tolerance and determination to carry reforms forward. This party was founded as a force of freedom and pluralism and remains so. Albanian democracy is not perfect, but it is real and evolving. Our task is to strengthen it every day through law, dialogue, and the participation of citizens.

The conservative Danish Christian Democratic Party, a member of the European Christian Democrats (EUDC), expressed deep concern over the return of neo-communist parties to power in several Eastern European countries, it was stated in a declaration published yesterday in Copenhagen on Saturday. The development of free and democratic elections, a member of the European Christian Democrats (EUDC), is a major achievement for the former communist countries in Eastern Europe, but the return to power of neo-communist forces is a serious obstacle to their integration into the Western institutions of the continent, the declaration says. Today, at 12:30 at the headquarters of the parliamentary group of the PDSh, Sali Berisha will answer questions from the media in a press conference. Afterwards, the head of state will take part in the presentation of the memoir book by former US President Ronald Reagan, “My American Life.” The translator of this book into Albanian is PDSh MP Sali Shehu. Below, we are publishing a part of the interview of former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger with the ambassador of Kosovo in Tirana, Dr. Besnik Mustafaj, for the American journal (?) “Commentary” in June 2001

The locomotive of Albanian democratization is turning into an attractive force for the democratic developments of Kosovo and other countries in the western region, it is stated in a declaration from yesterday. This new spirit, which is gaining ground, is appearing in the growth of contacts and cooperation with European partners. Albania is proving that it can be a factor of stability in the region and a serious contributor to integration processes. This assessment is made in the context of recent political developments and the increased international interest in the Albanian perspective.

Switzerland considers Albania one of the priority countries in Central and Eastern Europe, in partnership with the Swiss government, in the fields of financing and development. Switzerland considers Albania one of the priority countries in Central and Eastern Europe, said the senior Swiss official, Flavio Cotti, at a press conference in Tirana. According to him, Albania will benefit from aid and partnership programs for economic and institutional development. He emphasized that political stability and progress in democratic reforms have influenced the growing interest of international partners in the country. The Swiss Foreign Minister, Flavio Cotti, said that his government supports Albania's efforts for European integration and for consolidating the rule of law. Switzerland will continue to assist with concrete projects in various fields, especially in the economy, administration, and infrastructure. Switzerland considers Albania one of the priority countries in Central and Eastern Europe, said Swiss Foreign Minister Flavio Cotti at a press conference in Tirana.

Interview with Josef Lake, the US ambassador in Tirana Great challenges lie ahead for your country, and while the economy continues to move in the right direction, an even greater number of different challenges are also emerging. We have now been in Albania for about four years, and the progress and positive transformation that has taken place are clear. It is important for this transformation to continue with commitment to democratic institutions, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. The United States has supported and will continue to support Albania on this path. We see great potential in Albanian society and in the energy of its citizens. This gives us confidence that the future can be even better if reforms continue and stability is preserved.

Today, at 12:30 at the headquarters of the parliamentary group of PDSh, Sali Berisha will answer the next round of media questions

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