The Nano case - the main concern in the Council of Europe Interview with Mr. ALFRED GUSENBAUER, head of the delegation of the Council of Europe that visited Albania, given to the Tirana correspondent of Zëri i Popullit. In recent weeks, the relations and stance of the Council of Europe regarding the Fatos Nano case have become the subject of much debate in Albania, as well as in international opinion. For this reason, during the stay in Tirana of the delegation of the Council of Europe, our correspondent had a conversation with the head of the delegation, Mr. Alfred Gusenbauer. - Mr. Gusenbauer, in Albanian public opinion it is being said that the Nano case has become a test for Albania. How do you see this issue? - We believe that respect for the rule of law and for fundamental rights is an essential condition for any country aspiring to European integration. The Nano case has been followed closely because it is linked to justice standards, to the independence of the courts, and to the political climate in the country. - Will there be consequences in relations with the Council of Europe? - Naturally, a country is also judged by the way it treats the opposition, political freedoms, and procedural guarantees. Our position is that the proceedings must be fair, transparent, and in line with European standards. - What is your message to the Albanian authorities? - Our message is that democratic reforms must move forward and that institutions must be strengthened. Political dialogue is important, as is respect for the law. The interview also goes on to discuss the progress of reforms, the parliamentary climate, and the Council of Europe’s assessments of Albania. On page 5, interview

Albania. It was a beautiful victory, though not an easy one. Our national football team defeated Moldova 2-0, achieving another success in our qualifying group, following the 2-2 draw with Germany. Albania is climbing the standings and gaining confidence for the upcoming matches. With this victory by our players, our entire people have felt happier. The phases of the game were different. At the start our team played well and quickly took the lead with Bushi’s goal, scored in the 12th minute. Then the game became balanced, the opponents tried to respond, but without being able to strike decisively. In the second half, our side managed the advantage with maturity and scored a second goal as well, sealing the victory. The win matters not only for the points, but also for the belief that Albania can move forward. On page 8, sports

Berisha announces the dismissal of the chairmen of the district councils based on an uncoordinated report by Blerim Çela The chairmen of Lezha, Mirdita, Tepelena, Puka, Bulqiza, Kukës, Berat, Gramsh and Devoll have been dismissed. This was one of the main topics of yesterday’s political agenda. The report presented mentions shortcomings, responsibilities and accusations regarding local government, while the decision made public by President Berisha has triggered reactions in various political circles. According to the material, breaches of discipline, administrative incompetence and non-implementation of the law were highlighted. Representatives of the opposition have described this move as political pressure on local government, while government supporters have presented it as part of a necessary administrative cleanup. The issue is expected to influence political debates in the coming days. On page 3

They underline In the analyses and assessments made of the social and economic situation, the phenomenon of internal refugees has also been noted: families moving from poor areas to the cities in search of a better life. This phenomenon is putting a strain on urban infrastructure and creating new social difficulties. On page 6

Sor in Tirana Adrian Nastase - president of the Chamber of Deputies and of membership Dumitrescu[?]. Since 1992, the Romanian government has undergone several changes, but especially the attacks by the anti-communist opposition (the Civic Alliance) have made co-governance impossible. What has been the path to the revival of social democracy? Is there a chance to triumph with new allies? With these and other questions, a conversation was held with Adrian Nastase, president of the Chamber of Deputies of Romania, who is in Tirana on an official visit. He emphasized the need for parliamentary cooperation and for closer ties between left-wing forces in the region. On page 5

Shkodër-Malësi e Madhe The value of privatization vouchers reached 17-20 % Can you keep the discounts for yourself?!... At 8:30 in the morning, or at 9:00-9:30, the gold market[?] in Shkodër was opening its doors and hundreds of people were gathering. The privatization vouchers were being sold and bought at prices ranging from 17 to 20 percent of their value. Many citizens were asking to learn more about how they could be used, while others were complaining about the discounts and the intermediaries. The crowd was large and buying and selling were taking place in chaotic conditions. (Continues on page 2)

The value of securities 15 percent Today the area of the country[?]. The American administration has agreed to provide Vietnam with 400,000 tons of food. According to the president, the Cuba issue has been resolved[?]. In other countries of the world, prices and capital markets have fluctuated. B. Z. (Continues on page 2)

At the port, they are mainly declared to be farmer-traders, but alongside them there are many others as well, among them foreign Albanians and persons with suspicious ties. According to the material, goods and illegal profits circulate through this network. On page 4.30 in the morning[?] Erosë Yssel[?] this[?] appeared. At the entrance. The union turns[?]. Vili[?] on the coast. TRAGIC MAJOR EVENTS On page 26