- It is where it belongs in Europe; - Berisha must not become an obstacle, but must keep his promises and meet the conditions set by Europe. This alone was enough for the delegation of the Socialist Party in Strasbourg, led by Servet Pëllumbi, to see first-hand the developments and the debate that took place in the session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, where Albania’s application for membership was also discussed. On this subject, in yesterday’s issue of “Zëri i Popullit”, through a brief interview with Mr. Asqeri Hoxha, we learned about the discussions, trends and positions of deputies from various countries. Today we are publishing a fuller article, which will also provide some more concrete details of the developments, especially Mr. Servet Pëllumbi’s speech. Starting from the atmosphere created and the many reactions, the answer will also be given in essence as to why Albania should become a member of the Council of Europe as soon as possible. Two days before the Assembly voted on admission to the Council of Europe, the Socialist Party delegation, led by its chairman Servet Pëllumbi, was present in the Strasbourg premises. The delegation’s activity was very intensive not only in terms of the numerous meetings and talks with members of the Parliamentary Assembly and with leaders of various political groups, but also in terms of raising public awareness about the recent events in Albania. Regarding all these activities, we had a conversation with Mr. Asqeri Hoxha, a member of the delegation. Since, Mr. Asqeri, you arrived on the very day the Assembly meetings ended in Strasbourg, what overall impression did you form from this trip? In general, we came away with the impression that Albania should be admitted to the Council of Europe, but on condition that the Albanian government undertakes to implement, with due correctness, all the obligations arising from this. This was also the view of many deputies with whom we spoke. On this point everyone was of one mind: Albania should be admitted as quickly as possible, but the government must change its style and move toward democratic standards. It was clearly observed that the main concern of the foreign deputies had to do with local elections, the legal proceedings against the opposition, and the authorities’ attitude toward the free press. These were assessed as serious problems. 23 May was the high point of this session. That day most of the discussions were focused on the Albanian issue. Mr. Servet Pëllumbi’s speech was received with interest, because he presented not only the position of the Socialist Party but also the political reality in Albania with arguments. The discussion stated that the opposition is not against the country’s European integration; on the contrary, it is more interested than anyone else in Albania being part of democratic Europe. But this cannot be done by turning a blind eye to the violations and distortions that are visible in the country today. He emphasized that pressure on the opposition, the political use of the administration, restrictions on the media, and the lack of guarantees for fair elections seriously damage Albania’s image. The deputies present listened carefully to these arguments, and many of them found them convincing. It became clear that the issue was not framed as a debate between the government and the opposition, but as a general concern about the country’s democratic progress. From the talks we held with representatives of different political groups, it turned out that the majority did not want to obstruct Albania’s admission. On the contrary, it was believed that admission itself would have a positive impact on internal developments. But it was equally clearly emphasized that this should not be interpreted as approval of the existing situation. Europe expected concrete changes and respect for commitments. In conclusion, it can be said that this trip helped clarify positions more clearly. Albania belongs in Europe and should join the Council of Europe. Berisha or his government should not be the obstacle; on the contrary, they must keep their promises and fulfill the conditions set by Europe. Only in this way will admission have full meaning and serve the democratization of the country.

- Zelli had been made aware of the accusation! - Another journalist in the Tirana court Yesterday, in the final hearing of the court process against journalist Greqi Zefi, the defendant’s defense lawyer requested the exclusion of the chair of the trial panel, arguing that the latter had already been familiar with the case. According to the defense, procedural violations were identified that make it unacceptable to continue the trial under these conditions. There was a heated debate in the courtroom between the defense and the representative of the prosecution. The lawyer stated that the way the trial has been conducted shows a tendency toward prejudice and an infringement of the defendant’s rights. Meanwhile, the prosecution rejected these claims, calling them unfounded. The trial has attracted the attention of public opinion and media circles, as it concerns press freedom and the relationship between power and critical journalism. The decision on the defense’s request was expected to be handed down at the end of the hearing. The side headline emphasizes: “Zelli had been made aware of the accusation!”, implying that the judge had prior knowledge of elements of the case. This was used by the defense as an additional argument for his exclusion.

“I was amazed by your country” The great French actress Stella Popesco is visiting Albania for the first time. Her visit has aroused particular interest in artistic circles and among the public, because of her fame and her ties to Romanian and French culture. During her stay she has said that she was “amazed by your country”, praising the hospitality, the nature and the spiritual atmosphere she found in Albania. Her meetings with Albanian artists and cultural figures took place in a warm atmosphere. The artist’s visit is seen as an event of importance for cultural rapprochement and for promoting the country’s image. She is also expected to take part in various artistic events during her stay.

A. D. lives with Mr. Moksi, the “humiliated” one, who placed the grave of I. Mehmeti around his neck. (continued on page 3)

Republican lawsuit imposes a legal obligation Other surrounding areas in Vlorë are closed The Council decided yesterday at its meeting to release the plots in Vlorë once again for construction and private business. According to the announcement, this measure is linked to outstanding obligations and compensation that must be paid. The decision provides for an amount of around 60 thousand dollars, which will be covered by the relevant funds. The debate on this issue has been lengthy and has involved representatives of local government and business. Meanwhile, in Vlorë other administrative measures have also been taken relating to the reorganization of spaces and the closure of several unauthorized buildings.

Scandal: III. Sin: For quite some time there has existed the idea of the need for the defendant’s council to strictly and unwaveringly implement institutional obligations. From now on, power is getting very close to that time, because it has become clear that its control over the administration and over the means of information is weakening. Different social strata view the government with suspicion, and official propaganda is finding it increasingly difficult to cover up the real problems. Under these conditions the fear of losing power grows, and it is precisely this fear that pushes them toward harsher political actions. No comment [???]. (continued on page 3)

A FINDING OF GUILT IS SOUGHT FOR THE DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF “ZËRI I POPULLIT” new fine in lek. Right from the outset the decision was to be taken by Mr. Petrit Vasili, the prosecutor in the case. He has requested a harsh sentence for deputy editor-in-chief Pandi Laço, arguing that he violated the norms of professional ethics, despite the fact that the editor-in-chief, as the newspaper “Republika” writes, publicly disclosed the fact that the testimony of witness Meri K. was fake. The situation becomes even more interesting with the prosecutor’s request: that Pandi Laço be sentenced to 2 years’ suspended imprisonment and 20,000 (continued on page 2) A. D.