Only for the period January–June 1994: 10 infants dead The problem in many Albanian areas has now become alarming. Toxic substances have entered use in such an uncontrolled way that they endanger everyday life. In the neighborhoods of towns, in kindergartens and nurseries, near schools and water sources, storage sites for waste and chemical preparations have turned into a daily threat to residents’ health. At the center of the concern raised in this article is the situation in Mit, Korçë, where, according to the author’s data and health institutions, there is a strong presence of pesticide and strychnine substances. The lack of protective measures, negligence in management, and the proximity of homes to these places make the consequences even more serious. According to the material, only for the period January–June 1994, 10 infant deaths were recorded. The figures are presented as a warning bell for local and central authorities. Residents of the area, especially young families, live in constant fear for their children’s lives. The article raises questions about sanitary control, institutional responsibility, and the need to relocate or destroy dangerous depots. Urgent intervention is called for, because every delay may cost other lives. [Note: the full text of the article in the relevant column is partly illegible in the image and some lines are not clearly visible.]

Along the track, several railings are broken off- [...] [?] According to explanations from the office in Koça, this railway has been in place since June 1992, while the wagons loaded with dangerous chemical preparations have become a constant source of concern for residents. Their worn-out condition and the absence of any safety measures have created an alarming situation. Residents say that the train’s proximity to inhabited areas, especially places where children move about, increases the risk of exposure to toxic substances. On hot days, the wind spreads the strong smell of pesticides, causing breathing difficulties and health concerns. The article asks: until when will this situation continue? Intervention is demanded to remove the wagons and take immediate measures. [The full body is not clearly readable in the photo.]

On the ratification of agreements with Macedonia and the budget for the first half-year YESTERDAY IN PARLIAMENT Ministers Serreqi and Cela in interpellation - Deputy Genc Ruli denounced with disgust the abundance of blogs. We did not approve the democratic agreement, when it is the program of its bio in the framework of the Constitutional Provisions. - Alfred Serreqi: “It is necessary in event with the final form of the law of mules between Greece and Albania” The Albanian-Macedonian trade agreement, the fight against crime, the “reassessment for phytosanitary control,” and “international road transport” were among the points discussed in yesterday’s parliamentary session. Interpellations were made on them with the Minister of Agriculture and Food, Mr. Alfred Serreqi, and the Minister of Finance, Mr. Genc Çela. Democratic deputy Genc Ruli spoke about abolishing the grain monopoly and exposing the purchase of wheat. According to him, “politically, the government has failed” and “has caused major losses to producers.” He also raised the issue of relations with Greece regarding bilateral agreements. Minister Alfred Serreqi stated that the agreements are necessary and should be seen as concrete tools of regional cooperation. In his intervention, he emphasized the importance of the legal regulation of trade and phytosanitary issues and mentioned the need for a definitive legal form for relations between Greece and Albania. The session also included debates over the first-half-year budget and the performance of public revenues and expenditures. (To be continued on page 2)

Judges While the bloodshed in the former Caucasus republics continues, an official voice quoted in the foreign press has stated that an outbreak of a new Karabakh war is not expected. The source refers to the political and military developments of recent days. According to the comments, the sides remain tense, but there is still the possibility of diplomatic mediation. [The article is only partially readable.]

Chairman of the Council of the Highlands of Malësia e Madhe[?] Maksim[?] People’s Assembly - 2 anonymous petitions[?] Chairman of the Trade Union Conference of Albania Mr. Skender K[?] FYT Citizens’ Association[?] We are living with a great deal of solidarity and compassion, and our hearts tell us that we have the right to ask for more than one wage in order to live. 3 - We are in a very difficult situation in employment. 500 of our spouses are missing; they work in our areas[?] municipalities as well, even at the height of the season for 4–5 months a year. Together with the pension of our relatives, we cannot feed the children in the home. We ask the government and parliament to give us a solution, to secure jobs, and to create minimum conditions for living. [Many parts of the petition are unclear.]

Are we linked to arrest, to escort? In the Albanian language [illegible text] ... [The article is very unclear and cannot be transcribed with certainty.]

Yesterday afternoon, the French began celebrating their National Day. Jacques Chirac hosted a reception at the French ambassador’s villa in Tirana. Present was the President of the Republic, Sali Berisha. (Continued on page 2) EDIKA[?]