the continuation of democratization is vital for the country’s progress SPEECH BY COMRADE RAMIZ ALIA Comrades, We listened carefully to the information presented by comrade Simon Stefani about the work that has been done so far in implementing the decisions of the 9th Plenum of the Party Central Committee. It is clear that the problems we face today, and which require swift solutions, have also substantially affected the spiritual life of the country. This shows that, overall, the orientations of the Party’s last congress, the 9th Plenum of the Central Committee, and the Central Committee Secretariat meeting of 11 June for deepening the democratization process were correct. In these months we can say that we have fostered a strong political and ideological movement through the activity of the Party, the state, and social organizations to assimilate and implement these orientations, which are enabling people to take a more active part in the life of the country, to openly express their thoughts and views, and to freely state their opinions and criticisms about shortcomings and various problems. Overall, these democratic processes are developing with maturity, calm, and a constructive and patriotic spirit. This constitutes very strong support for the country’s further progress. More room for action, for democratic and reform-minded interests and consciousness Despite the progress achieved, we cannot fail to admit that there are still many manifestations of conservatism, hesitation, and fear of moving along the path of reform and the expansion of socialist democracy. These manifestations are seen not only among some officials, but also among part of public opinion that has become accustomed to old methods of work and leadership. For this reason it is necessary to persist more firmly in the struggle against bureaucratism, administrative command methods, and mentalities that obstruct people’s free and creative initiative. Under today’s conditions, our social development requires more room for the free and responsible action of the individual, the collective, social organizations, and public opinion. Democratization is not merely a temporary measure, but a necessity of our political, economic, and cultural life. It must penetrate all links of social life, in relations between citizens and institutions, in the way of governing, in everyday life. We must free ourselves from the mentality that links the strengthening of socialism with the restriction of citizens’ rights. On the contrary, our socialism is strengthened when people feel free to think, criticize, propose, and take part in solving problems. Only in this way can the people’s trust in the Party and in the country’s future grow. We must understand that criticism and dissent are not hostile when they arise from concern for the fate of the country and from the desire to find better paths of development. Of course, everything must be done within the framework of the laws, public order, and the general interests of our socialist society. For the homeland - All our minds and forces From this tribune I want to stress once again that Albania’s future depends on our work, wisdom, and unity. First and foremost, it is the duty of the Party and the institutions to create an atmosphere of trust and open new horizons for citizens. Our people have great energy, intellectual and moral potential, and are ready to overcome any difficulty when they see sincerity, justice, and a perspective. Today is not the time for empty words or self-satisfaction. It is time for realism, political honesty, and wise decisions. All our forces must be concentrated on overcoming economic difficulties, increasing production, ensuring a better life for the people, and strengthening public order. In this struggle everyone has their place and their responsibility. Let us work with the conviction that the path of democratization, openness, and reform is the path that best serves socialism and the homeland. Only in this way will we move forward with dignity, confidence, and the support of the people.

, The 11th Plenum of the Party Central Committee, deci[?] DECIDED: 1. Comrade Manush Myftiu, [..], be granted the status of member of the Political Bureau of the Party Central Committee. 2. Comrade Hysni Kapo[?] be granted the status of member of the Party Central Committee. 3. Comrade Hito Cako[?], [..] 4. Comrade Niko Yzberish[?] be elected candidate[?] 5. Comrade Adyl Balta from candidate of member of the Party Central Committee. 6. Comrade Hekuran Isai be relieved of his duties and elected member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee. 7. Comrade Simon Stefani be relieved of the duties of Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Agriculture. 8. Comrade Lenka Cuko be relieved of the duties of Secretary of the Party Central Committee and assigned work in the ideological sector. As made known by decrees of the Secretary[?] of the Party and by decrees of the Presidium of the People's Assembly of the People's Socialist Republic of Albania.

(Continued on page 2) Hadi Xhaferi, first secretary, [..] We are clear that socialism does not have weak foundations; it rests on the working masses and on people’s power. The democratization process unfolding today in the country is neither accidental nor imposed from outside; it stems from the needs of our social development and from the strength of our socialist order. The changes being undertaken aim to release people’s creative energies, expand the space for thought, and strengthen citizens’ participation in the management of the country’s affairs. This is the surest way to make socialism stronger and our democracy more stable. We must not confuse freedom with disorder, nor democracy with a weakening of the state. On the contrary, a healthy democracy makes social discipline stronger, increases individual and collective responsibility, and deepens trust in institutions. Service to the people, justice, the enforcement of the law, and the struggle against every manifestation of arbitrariness remain fundamental duties. Only in this way will we move forward with confidence.

On exempting Albanian citizens who have entered foreign diplomatic missions from criminal prosecution Pursuant to Article 78 of the Constitution: THE PRESIDIUM OF THE PEOPLE'S ASSEMBLY OF THE PEOPLE'S SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF ALBANIA DECIDED: Article 1 Albanian citizens who entered foreign diplomatic missions and left our country on 2 July 1990, as well as those who will leave by 13 July 1990, shall not be criminally prosecuted for these actions. Article 2 This decree enters into force immediately. Tirana, 7.7.1990 Decree No. 7397 THE SECRETARY THE SECRETARY OF THE PRESIDIUM OF THE PEOPLE'S ASSEMBLY OF THE PEOPLE'S SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF ALBANIA RAMIZ ALIA

(Continued on page 2) Instead of pointing out the wounds, making an honest analysis, and taking measures to really change the situation, we often settle for a facade and for efforts to create a more pleasing outward appearance. But a country’s true image is not built with slogans; it is born from people’s real lives, from the state of the economy, from justice, from culture, and from social relations. Changing the image has value only when it is the consequence of real changes in substance. If we seek respect and understanding from others, we must first earn the trust of our own citizens, create better living and working conditions for them, and show that we know how to listen to their voice. Only then is the country’s image improved in a natural and lasting way.

The Party’s decisions for revolutionizing life through the recognition of the role of the masses and comprehensive democratization have been correctly understood by the people and enjoy the support of the working masses.