Spahia says the PD group will remain determined on the path and strengthening of ties with the countries and organizations of Western Europe, and more firmly toward Albania’s orientation TIRANA - The Albanian Parliament last night and today welcomed the Socialists, number 8, both from the opposition allies and from the center. The Socialist Party is taking part in today’s session in order to increase the plenary’s chances of continuing its work. Meanwhile, in what represent the bloc, a center described as one of anarchy, a meeting of the Socialist parliamentary group was held, which examined the possibilities for parliamentary work under the new conditions. The Socialists say that through calm and institutional debate they will contribute to resolving the deep political and social crisis the country is going through. In today’s parliamentary session, the chairman of the parliamentary group of the Democratic Party, Tritan Shehu, declared that all parliamentary activity is based on respect for the constitution and the free will of the deputies. Democratic Party deputy Ylli Vejsiu stressed that the return of the opposition to البرلمان is a positive development and in the interest of normalizing political life. The Assembly opened its work with debates on the situation in the country, placing at the center the need to calm the situation and restore constitutional order. It was requested that political forces show responsibility and avoid any action that damages institutional stability. Majority deputies emphasized that cooperation with Euro-Atlantic organizations remains an unchanging objective and that Albania must move faster on the path of Western integration. The spirit of compromise should be considered in order to minimize this major act

Statement by the Spokesman of the U.S. Department of State, Nicholas Burns Albania has officially been informed of the statements by Mr. Lamberto Dini, chairman of the OSCE. Burns said they do not reflect official policy. Burns stated that “There is a stabilization in Albania; the obstacle to peace and stability are the armed insurgents, who continue to be on Albania’s side and in the general uprising, and that for international stability it is necessary to respect democratic institutions”. Page 2

The spirit of compromise should be considered in order to minimize this major act Consultation by President Berisha with 10 political parties on the Constitution As for organizing parliamentary work for drafting the new constitution, Berisha stressed that it is essential to clearly define the division of opinion between the constitutional commission and parliament. Regarding the content of the Constitution, he said it should enshrine political pluralism and the rule of law, with the separation of powers into executive, legislative and judicial. The head of state assessed that the constitution should be a document that sets clear rules for institutions and guarantees the fundamental rights of citizens. He pointed to the need to create a climate of consensus with the participation of political forces and the best specialists in the field, so that the final product enjoys broad public legitimacy.

Newspaper “THE WALL STREET JOURNAL”, 4-5 April '97 Written by sir JON LAUGHLAND The shutdown of “Sampi” in Saranda, Auranit, last Friday gave many people around the world the impression that Albania had fallen into complete chaos. But the country has in fact calmed down and public life has become organized. Citizens were withdrawing money from banks and buying food, while shops and hotels were operating. Now, as foreign helicopters become increasingly visible, the government is trying to maintain control and avoid a civil clash. Page 3

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Van den Linden, vice president of the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly: Mr. Van den Linden reported that priority for Albania and Europe is the resolution of the crisis and reported priority for Albania and the vice president of the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly gave an interview to the group after his visit to Albania and stressed that the Council of Europe agrees with a major declaration that in a declaration after peace and order and international. “The President of the Republic can play an important role in holding new elections”. Page 4

On Sunday, 13.04.1997, at 11:00 a.m. in the meeting hall of the Palace of Congresses, a meeting of the National Council of PDSH will be held to analyze the situation in the country and the measures that need to be taken.