- From the meeting of the Presidium of the Socialist Party - In order to be more determined in the process of democratizing party life, and to become more capable of solving the problems and tasks facing our party in the new conditions, the Presidium of the Socialist Party held an expanded meeting. It was attended by party committee secretaries in the districts, deputies, heads of central bodies, and specialists. In the many discussions it was emphasized that the new spirit of the 10th Congress of the PPSh, now the Socialist Party, is penetrating the party and society. It was pointed out that it is necessary to fight bureaucracy, strengthen dialogue with the people, and increase the responsibility of organizations and cadres at every level. The participants focused on the country's economic situation, supply difficulties, problems of public order and peace, as well as the role the party must play in these conditions. It was said that reforms require new political thinking and new organization, without old schemes and without command-style administration. The meeting also addressed the need for the party to move closer to the various strata of the population, to intellectuals, to young people, to workers and peasants. It was stressed that party organizations must be active, open, and based on conviction rather than coercion. The Presidium also analyzed some problems of the internal life of the party, the functioning of the basic organizations, the selection of cadres, and respect for democratic norms. It was demanded that decisions be accompanied by concrete responsibility and continuous monitoring of their implementation. In conclusion it was underlined that the success of reforms and the overcoming of the difficult transitional situation require unity, organized work, and faith in the strength of the people.

Paris auditorium, Socialist JDE TIRANA. On 14 June, at the premises of the French Embassy, the first press conference of the Secretary General of the PPSH and Prime Minister, comrade Fatos Nano, was held. The Prime Minister of our country, who was taking part in the initial developments of the PPSH, answered the interest of foreign and domestic journalists concerning the economic and social problems through which our country is passing. At the outset he positively assessed the role of the PPSH in democratizing the country's political life. The Prime Minister of our country stressed that the Albanian government is taking measures to stabilize the economic situation, to ensure essential supplies, and to gradually open up the economy. He underlined that Albania aims to integrate into European processes and to establish normal relations with all countries. Replying to questions, comrade Fatos Nano spoke about economic reform, privatization, the need for foreign aid, and relations with international organizations. He said that the Albanian government is determined to move forward on the path of democratic transformations and the creation of a state governed by law. The conference also dealt with issues related to political pluralism, press freedom, and elections. Confidence was expressed that through understanding and cooperation the difficulties of the transition will be overcome. (Continued on page 2)

In Tirana, a forum of national importance was opened, devoted to one of the most fundamental issues of the time: the transition of our economy onto the path of a market economy. Economists, researchers, specialists from various fields, representatives of state institutions and social organizations took part in the symposium. The first reports dealt with issues of property reform, the price system, the liberalization of economic activity, finance, and the role of the state under market conditions. The speakers pointed out that the road to a market economy requires new laws, capable institutions, and social protection for the vulnerable layers of society. In the discussions it was emphasized that Albania cannot get out of its difficulties without a deep structural reform. The need to stimulate production, investments, links with foreign markets, and the training of specialists was discussed. The symposium proceedings continued with lively debates and the presentation of various alternatives for models of economic reform. (Continued on page 2)

Conversation with the Minister of Transport, Fatos Bitaka — The transport situation remains one of the greatest concerns of the economy and of everyday life. The lack of fuel, the worn-out condition of vehicles, and organizational problems have created serious obstacles in the movement of goods and passengers. The Minister of Transport, Fatos Bitaka, states that measures are being taken to improve the use of the existing fleet, to organize the main lines, and to strengthen discipline in transport enterprises. He acknowledges that the difficulties are great, but stresses that without an overall intervention in the economy there can be no complete solution in transport either. The conversation also addresses the problems of the railways, ports, spare parts supply, and cooperation with foreign partners. According to the minister, the most urgent needs and the sectors directly linked to supplying the population will be given priority. In the end he calls for understanding and for greater mobilization of the work collectives. (Continued on page 2)

(Continued on page 2) In the premises of the Prime Minister's office and in numerous meetings with diplomatic representatives and foreign journalists, talks were held on the country's most pressing problems and on prospects for cooperation. It was stressed that the Albanian government is interested in open, honest, and mutually beneficial relations with all countries. In these contacts, discussion focused on the economic situation, the necessary emergency aid, the supply of food and raw materials, as well as the support needed in the reform process. The Albanian side expressed its readiness to broaden contacts with international institutions and with the governments of friendly countries.

We inform the readers of the newspaper "Zëri i popullit" that on Monday, 17.6.1991, it will not be on sale because of the newspaper's circulation due to the print shop. Our next issue will come out on Friday, 21.6.1991. We ask for the understanding of our readers. EDITORIAL OFFICE

As it is in dialogue with the Albanian government, it underlines that it is necessary at every step to preserve the spirit of understanding and cooperation. It encourages all parties to continue efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and to ensure the peaceful development of the country. (AFP)