— From his interview for the newspaper E.A. Simapress dënën [?] BBC — When such a day as yesterday, with statements and counterstatements, with the insistence on denying everything and justifying actions that run counter to justice and the law, brings back to mind all the absurdity of the treatment given to Fatos Nano, then serious questions cannot help but arise. In his interview, the prison director gives different versions of Mr. Nano’s situation, about isolation, visits, contacts with people, and the way he is guarded. At one point he speaks of danger from «the enemies of the crowd», while later he mentions the fact that Fatos Nano is also liked by the prison guards. This contrast makes the justification given even less believable. The issue concerns not only the conditions of pre-trial detention or of serving a sentence, but also the standards of a state that claims to respect the law, human dignity, and fundamental rights. The public is served contradictory statements, while Nano’s family members and supporters demand full transparency. (Continues on page 8)

Representatives of our party and of the independent trade union of Albania, deputies of the People’s Assembly, leaders of OMONIA, and representatives of cultural associations expressed condolences yesterday at the Greek Embassy in Tirana, on the occasion of the tragic death of the Greek consul general in Gjirokastër, Mr. Pavlos Bakojanis [?]. In the condolence book they expressed their sorrow for this grave loss to the family, the Greek diplomatic service, and the Greek people. Press Office of the Socialist Party

The relations and developments between our two countries are very important, Mr. Hajdaraga stressed during the meeting, valuing cooperation as an important factor for stability in the region. On the Greek side, interest was underlined in deepening economic cooperation, especially in the fields of investment, trade, and transport. The interlocutors also expressed the need to resolve concrete problems in a spirit of understanding and dialogue. The meeting also touched on issues related to migration, the free movement of people, and the political climate in the region. Both sides spoke in favor of strengthening inter-party and institutional contacts.

Yesterday in Dibra, representatives of the PS structures from the northeastern districts of the country gathered and discussed the political, economic, and social situation. The adopted resolution emphasized the need to increase the party’s role in defending the interests of vulnerable social groups, as well as the need for better organization in facing the challenges of the transition. The meeting called for strengthening internal party unity, improving relations with the electorate, and expanding cooperation with progressive forces in the region.

For the third time within a few days, the headquarters of the Socialist Party in Gjirokastër has been the target of theft. According to initial information, unknown persons entered the offices of this political force during the night and took materials and various items. Representatives of the PS described the event as a provocative act and asked the competent authorities for its swift clarification. On the other hand, the police have launched investigations and are working to identify the perpetrators.

In various meetings with residents of rural and urban areas, a growing interest has been observed in the Socialist Party’s program and positions. According to messages coming from the grassroots, citizens are asking for a stronger, better organized opposition that is closer to their everyday concerns. It was emphasized that the PS must be more active in the field, more present in public debates, and more open to young people, intellectuals, and broad layers of the population.

PS activity in Dibër In the analyses carried out in Dibër, the party’s organizational situation and the need to strengthen its structures were discussed. The speakers underlined that democracy requires patience, dedication, and continuous work with people. It was pointed out that political victory cannot belong to a minority, but to the majority of citizens, who expect clear alternatives and more responsible behavior from politics.

After repeated damage and senseless acts against commemorative symbols, this time too cases of their removal or destruction have been recorded in several areas. Residents consider this an unacceptable act and a sign of political and civic intolerance. A reaction is being called for from the relevant institutions and measures are requested to preserve sites of historical memory.