THE YEAR THAT PASSED AND THE ONE THAT ARRIVED
(A Letter to a United Europe) At the moment when the years changed, on the eve of a new year, all of us felt the need for a balance sheet for the year gone by, but also for a vision of the year knocking at the door. The year 1992 presented itself to us with a burden of difficult and shocking problems, which came as a consequence of the deepening economic crisis, the inherited chaos, and political tensions. Albania faced severe shortages, unemployment, serious social wounds, and a general insecurity that affected people’s everyday lives. However, by the end of that year, signs of a new hope also emerged. Measures were taken to stabilize the situation, to halt economic collapse, to strengthen order, and to create new links with the world. At a time when Europe is entering new stages of integration and cooperation, Albania seeks to find its place, with dignity and full rights. The letter addressed to a united Europe is a call for understanding, for help, and for cooperation, but also an affirmation of the will to move forward with our own strength, with faith in the future. The new year finds us with many tasks, but also with greater responsibilities. We must build the rule-of-law state, strengthen democratic institutions, defend national interests, and ensure bread, work, and dignity for every citizen. The year we have left behind was a hard one. The one that has arrived must be the year of turning point, of work, and of hope.