Statement by the leadership of the Albanian Socialist Party The seemingly sudden development of relations with Greece, with repercussions that have resonated throughout Albanian society, has created an extremely tense political and emotional situation, increasing public and political concern in the country about the course of these relations and their consequences. The news that Bishop Janullatos, employees of the Greek consulate, and the leader of the organization «Omonia» were to be declared undesirable persons in Greece was immediately followed by the arrest in Greece of five Albanian citizens who had emigrated and had the right to reside and work in that country, as well as by the decision of the Greek government to expel a large number of Albanian emigrants. Among other things, this development prompted harsh official statements and reactions from both sides, showing that a new phase of tension in Albanian-Greek relations has begun. In this situation, the Socialist Party of Albania considers that relations with Greece, as a neighboring country with which Albania has major long-term interests, cannot be handled spontaneously, through hasty positions, or with demonstrative measures. The Socialist Party believes that these relations require a clear state strategy, based on law, international law, and mutual respect for sovereignty, national dignity, and the interests of the citizens of both countries. Given that hundreds of thousands of Albanians live and work in Greece, forming an important social and economic factor for our country, any worsening of bilateral relations has direct consequences for their lives, for their families, and for the overall political climate in Albania. The Socialist Party considers it essential that such sensitive issues be the subject of broad political and institutional consultation. It is unacceptable for such developments to take place without proper informing of public opinion and without the involvement of the country’s main political actors. Normalization of relations with Greece requires dialogue and the contribution of all political forces. Only through a responsible approach, far from propaganda and improvisation, can Albania’s national interests be protected and conditions for good neighborliness created. The Socialist Party calls on the government to act with prudence, transparency, and responsibility, avoiding any unnecessary escalation and giving priority to diplomatic dialogue. Likewise, it calls on political forces, state institutions, and public opinion to help reduce tensions, preserve national dignity, and concretely protect the interests of Albanian emigrants in Greece.

and also in relation to the Greek minorities

The judicial investigation is brought to an end. On Monday, the proca[?]esa

Today «Zëri i Popullit» celebrates the 52nd anniversary of its founding. «Zëri i Popullit» first appeared on 25 August 1942, as the organ of the Communist Party of Albania. Thanks to its clear anti-fascist position, «Zëri i Popullit» became a powerful tribune of the struggle for freedom, independence and national liberation, a powerful voice of truth in the service of the people. Over the years, «Zëri i Popullit» has been a tribune of political and social thought, a reflection of the country’s life and its concerns. Even today it remains linked to the interests of the reader and to the country’s political and social developments.

* European Union countries yesterday strongly condemned the new killings in Bosnia and called for the offensive to be stopped. * Meetings were held in Tirana regarding the political situation and relations with Greece. * In Kosovo tensions continued and new incidents are reported. * From Moscow, news is reported of new political moves in the reformist camp. TELEGRAPHICALLY * In Germany, new data on unemployment were published. * The United States expressed concern about developments in the Balkans. * In Italy, government consultations on the economy were held. TELEGRAPHICALLY * From Athens, new administrative measures for emigrants are reported. * In Skopje, political developments in parliament were reported. * In Belgrade, debates over sanctions continue.