(Adapted from the speech by PS leader Fatos Nano delivered to the Conference of the capital’s socialists) That is why it must be examined very seriously how far the denigration of political life in our country has gone and the rise of civic awareness against it. The extent to which the growth of the power of no one is increasing, as well as the political lessons drawn after the events of 26 May, help us understand the evolution of the Albanian crisis. I must insist here on the fact that there is no political force in the country that could present a more responsible political alternative than the Socialist Party. This has been proven by the course of political, economic and social developments during these years. The current right wing in Albania, represented by the Democratic Party, has not only failed to solve the Albanian crisis, but has itself been its main producer. This political force has shown an inability to build the rule of law, to guarantee democratic freedoms, and to develop the economy according to market rules. The Socialist Party has historically proven that it is a political force with national responsibility. It was not created to destroy, but to build; not to divide society, but to unite it; not to rule with arrogance, but to govern with law and dialogue. Today we need a strong opposition, but just as much we need a responsible majority. When the majority behaves like a closed regime that does not accept criticism, does not respect institutions and considers the state its own property, then the country risks sliding into authoritarianism. The recent political events and the way the institutions are being administered show that a crisis of trust is deepening in Albania. This crisis is not solved by propaganda, by pressure on the media, by the distortion of electoral processes or by intimidation of political opponents. It can be solved only through democratic standards, the separation of powers and respect for the citizen. In this sense, the Socialist Party has the duty to be the voice of reason, moderation and alternative. We must present a political project that отвечает to the country’s needs, the public interest and the European aspiration of Albanians. We cannot accept that the mistakes and failures of the current government be justified by the past, nor by outdated anti-communist rhetoric. Albania needs concrete solutions, not ideological alibis. It needs law, justice, equality before the law and an administration that serves the citizen. The Socialist Party must strengthen its ties with society, with the intelligentsia, with the world of work, with young people and with those persecuted by the transition. Only then can it become the real alternative of democratic governance. We are not here simply to correct particular anomalies of the PD. We are here to build another political model, another culture of governance and another relationship between the state and the citizen. We believe that Albania can emerge from this crisis only through real democracy, free elections, institutional dialogue and respect for human dignity.

The Arab- Albanian Islamic Bank is inaugurated Yesterday morning, in the center of Tirana, near the bank, the Arab-Albanian Islamic Bank was solemnly opened, with the participation of Prime Minister Meksi, the deputy prime minister and the minister of Finance, as well as representatives of foreign and domestic banks. In his welcoming remarks, the bank’s representative stressed the importance of this new financial institution for the development of the Albanian economy and for the strengthening of cooperation with Arab countries. The bank will offer modern banking services and is expected to encourage investment in trade, construction and other sectors of the economy. According to the initial announcements, the bank’s starting capital consists of Albanian and Arab contributions and its activity will be carried out in accordance with Albanian legislation. The ceremony concluded with congratulations for the success of this new financial institution.

- Interview with the chairman of the parliamentary group of the PS, Namik Dokle - Question: ... Answer: ... [?] the new constitution remains one of the most important issues in Albanian political life. The opposition is calling for an open process, with broad participation and democratic standards. Namik Dokle emphasizes that a stable constitution cannot be the product of the imposition of a temporary majority, but of a national consensus. He criticizes the way the constitutional debate is being handled and underlines that without sincere political dialogue, without respect for institutions and without guarantees for the referendum, any initiative risks failing. According to him, the Socialist Party is ready to contribute to the drafting of a modern, European and functional constitution for the Albanian state.

On 29 June, in the D-1 market in Tirana, one US dollar was exchanged for 96-97 lek, while the German mark was exchanged for 60-61 lek. According to foreign exchange market data, the movements have been small compared with previous days. Seasonal demand for foreign currency and the effects of foreign trade have also been reflected in the exchange rate. Market operators believe that the relative stability may continue in the coming days.

The drama of 2 July continues! In the same twisted way, by [?[... From the price of [?] to [?... As soon as one [?...] Poor Albania is paying [?... (Continues on page 2)