Message of the President of the Republic, Mr. Sali Berisha, on the occasion of the opening of the First Session of the People's Assembly, 1 July 1996 Esteemed ladies and gentlemen, The inauguration of this Assembly elected in the 26 May elections marks one of the most important events in the history of Albanian democracy. It is of exceptional importance not only for the new parliamentary majority and the government that will emerge from it, but for the entire Albanian society and the whole Albanian nation. This parliament represents above all the consolidation of individual freedom in Albania. During the campaign for the 26 May elections, the opposition shamelessly accused that these elections were being held under conditions of terror and reprisals, but it was proven that democracy was capable of facing such challenges by peaceful and political means. The accusations fell one after another. This parliament also represents the new level of maturity of Albanian society. Sitting here today are representatives elected by the free will of the voters. It expresses the sovereignty of the Albanian people over their destiny and that of the state. This parliament is also a symbol of the defeat of violence and the triumph of law. The opposition boycotted the elections, but failed in its efforts to prevent the functioning of democratic institutions. Attempts at destabilization could not undermine the constitutional order. The Albanian people showed calm, maturity and confidence in democratic values. They freely elected their representatives and demonstrated that Albania’s path is the path of freedom, pluralism and European integration. The tasks of this parliament are great: strengthening the rule of law, economic development, improving living standards, protecting human rights and freedoms, and bringing Albania closer to Euro-Atlantic institutions. We have the duty to build a better future for our citizens and for the Albanian nation. This requires responsibility, a spirit of cooperation and determination to carry reforms forward. May this parliament be the temple of democratic dialogue and of the national interest. (text partially illegible in the image)

On the eve of the formation of the new Government , Mësi and Shehu would present representatives of the political parties At the meetings organized by the prime minister with the main parties of the spectrum. Mr. Aleksandër Meksi has invited the leaders of the Socialist Party, the Democratic Alliance Party, the Union for Human Rights Party, and the chairman of PBDNJ, Vangjel Dule, as well as the chairman of the Republican Party, Sabri Godo. According to sources close to the government, these meetings are being held within the framework of the consultations that Mr. Meksi will have with the leaders of the political parties making up the government, regarding the governing coalition. The message of the President of the Republic, Dr. Sali Berisha, on the occasion of the opening of the First Session of the People's Assembly, 1 July 1996

Opening speech by Republican Party deputy Sabri Godo The market economy in Albania is still at an initial stage. This requires further legal and administrative reforms. The role of the Assembly is indispensable in creating the necessary basis for the country’s development. This new legislation must serve the citizen, encourage free enterprise, protect private property and guarantee the normal functioning of democratic institutions. The socialist deputies should follow the recommendations of the Council of Europe

Speech by President of the Republic Sali Berisha at the joint meeting of the National Council and the PD parliamentary group Page 3

Speech by Tritan Shehu, at the National Council of PDSH Page 3