Whether citizens now decide by their vote, the unity of our people must be guarded jealously. Competition among different political formations, with all that is inherent in them, must by no means lead to the stirring up of hatred and enmity, but should serve to compare their programs, alternatives, and abilities to solve the country’s problems. Comrades, inhabitants and workers of Vlorë, By its size and by the economic and cultural capacities it possesses, Vlorë ranks among the country’s main cities. A proverb says that a city is defined not only by what people have built there, but also by its traditions. In this sense Vlorë brings to mind glorious events in our national history. You have always been in the vanguard of patriotism and social progress, something embodied in the distinguished figures it has given to the nation and the country. Vlorë has always been a blazing center of patriotic feelings. Here our national flag was raised, here the foundations of our independent state were laid, here the people once again showed that they are ready to fight for their freedom and their legitimate rights. I am referring here not only to the War of Vlorë in 1920 against the Italian occupiers, but also to the determined resistance of the people of this region in all periods of our history. This heroic past is a source of inspiration for our days. It invites us all to be worthy of the heritage we have received. Today our country is going through an important period of change and reform. These changes aim to democratize the life of the country, strengthen the rule of law, invigorate the economy, improve the well-being of the people, and expand the freedoms and rights of citizens. The Party of Labour has taken upon itself the historic responsibility of leading this process firmly, but also wisely, never detaching itself from the supreme interests of the people. We are in favor of political pluralism, free competition of ideas, and fair elections. But we are equally determined against any attempt to use pluralism as a tool of division, revenge, or destabilization. True democracy is not built on hatred, but on respect for the law, for different opinions, and for the general social interest. The workers of Vlorë, in industry, agriculture, fishing, education, and culture alike, have given and continue to give a highly valuable contribution to the life of the country. Today everyone is required to work better, with more discipline, responsibility, and initiative. Only in this way can we overcome difficulties, increase production, improve supply, and meet the growing needs of the people. At this important moment, I am confident that the people of Vlorë will know how to preserve calm, moderation, and civic unity. All of us must work to ensure that the election campaign and the elections themselves take place in a climate of civility, correctness, and responsibility. Let the programs and alternatives be compared, but let our coexistence, our respect for one another, and our love for the homeland never be harmed. (Continued on p. 2)

Comrade Ramiz Alia meets with workers from the Vlorë district (Photo: ATSH)

From a letter sent to comrade Ramiz Alia. The women and boys of the united agricultural cooperative “Ali Kelmendi” in Shushicë, Vlorë district, express their full support for the democratization of the country’s life and the deepening of reforms, led by the Party of Labour. In their letter they state that they are determined to defend the achievements that have been attained and to contribute to the further development of the country. [Note: the rest of the text in this box is partly illegible in the image and cannot be read clearly.]

Tiranë: it was time to work And indeed, it was calm and reassuring that the residents and representatives of the management of the “Sindon” enterprise around Tiranë made it known that they had settled their problems and concerns through dialogue, one day before the arrival of the First Secretary of the Central Committee of the PPSH, comrade Ramiz Alia. After clarifying and realistically and responsibly analyzing the situation in all the problems of the enterprise, the workers have pledged to revive work, to discipline, and to achieve the plans. They pointed out that the spirit of work is the only way to overcome difficulties. Another important development was also recorded in the city of Kavajë, where young people, workers, and intellectuals expressed themselves in favor of calm, moderation, and active participation in the democratic processes. (Continued on p. 2)

Yesterday the Presidium of the Association of Journalists of Shqipëria met, and analyzed the situation in the press and information organs, as well as the tasks for presenting democratic processes in the country objectively. Great responsibility on the part of journalists was highlighted: to defend the truth, to respect professional ethics, and to contribute to an atmosphere of calm and understanding. The Presidium also discussed the role of the press in covering the election campaign and in encouraging civic debate. (ATSH)