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Zëri i Popullit

E enjte, 22 qershor 1995

PD DEMANDS “NEW” WAYS WHILE FOLLOWING IN PS'S FOOTSTEPS

• Tiranë argues the importance and necessity of the PD-PS-PASOK joint declaration On this hot June afternoon, the press offices of the Albanian parties continue to be occupied with election activity. Recently, the PD's press spokesperson, Miss Ylberja Kola, appeared before journalists with the latest statement. She described the PD-PS-PASOK joint declaration not as a necessary decision but as a “stopgap solution.” At the same time, she emphasized the need for “new ways” in relations between the parties. Reading this statement carefully, it is clear that the PD, instead of explaining to public opinion the obstacles it has itself placed in the way of political cooperation, is trying to present itself as the initiator of ideas it previously opposed. If its representatives today speak of the need for dialogue and contact with progressive forces in the region, this is nothing other than a belated acknowledgment of what the PS and its partners have long been demanding. The press statement said that the Greek government had been informed about Paskal Milo's visit and that it was considered a useful step for political developments in the region. But the PD spokesperson gave no answer to the fundamental question: why did it take so long for this force to be convinced of the importance of communication with the European left? Even when PASOK is mentioned, it is done with evident reluctance, as if to conceal the fact that Albanian social democrats have long been open to this cooperation. What stands out is the attempt to claim credit for a course that, in reality, has been followed by the PS. In today’s conditions, when the country needs political calm and an atmosphere of understanding, such half-hearted statements are not enough. They must be accompanied by a sincere will for cooperation and by abandoning divisive language. Only then can the phrase “new way” have any meaning.
Ylberja Kola Paskal Milo Tiranë Greqi Europë

A Few Words from the “Iceberg”: the Plunder of National Wealth

State property valued at up to 33 percent. Who proposes and who orders? - State property valued at up to 33 percent. - Who proposes and who orders? Two well-known parliamentarians from the latest session, after questions raised by Socialist deputies, brought to light a highly disturbing phenomenon: the devaluation of state property during privatizations. It was said that in some cases entire enterprises were valued at up to 33 percent of their real worth, opening the way to unjust enrichment and outright plunder. During the parliamentary debate, concrete examples were mentioned linked to decisions taken at high administrative levels. The question is: who proposes these valuations and who approves them? Responsibility cannot remain anonymous. When public property passes into private hands at ridiculous prices, the damage is not only economic; it is moral and political. The author of the article points out that this is only the tip of the iceberg. Beneath the surface lie deals, interventions, favors, and networks of influence that have caused major losses to the country. Full transparency in the privatization process and an investigation into every case in which the state has been harmed are called for. If the leaders do not answer, it means the order came from above. Otherwise, they must publicly explain the criteria and responsibilities. National wealth cannot be treated as electoral loot or as a reward for the political clientele.

The Law “on the Pre-University Education System” is Approved

PARLIAMENT 26 votes in favor and 8 abstentions described yesterday's vote as an important step in the field of education. The new law “on the pre-university education system” was approved after a long debate, during which numerous remarks and amendments were presented. According to the discussions, it aims to better regulate relations between educational institutions, curricula, and the role of the state in school administration. Opposition deputies raised concerns about the real possibilities for implementing the law, the material conditions of schools, and the lack of a clear funding policy. On the other hand, supporters of the bill stressed that its approval provides a necessary basis for modernizing the system and for moving closer to European standards. At the end of the session, it was announced that the law would enter into force after publication in the Official Gazette. Meanwhile, specialists in the field are awaiting the by-laws that will make it practically applicable. The debate on pre-university education is expected to continue in the coming months.

French Aid for the University

ARDIAN MYSLIMI There are 125 lecturers from the Tirana Faculty of Economics who have taken part in a training course being held with the help of French specialists. The program aims to improve teaching methods and bring curricula closer to the standards of Western schools. According to the organizers, cooperation with French partners began several months ago and includes not only staff training, but also the provision of literature and teaching materials. The participating lecturers have said that the experience gained will directly affect the quality of teaching and the professional preparation of students. At the opening ceremony, it was said that the university needs broader international contacts and continued support, especially in the conditions of transition. The project is considered a valuable step toward modernizing higher education. (Continued on page 2)
Ardian Myslimi Tiranë Francë

125 Fishermen on Strike

There are 125 fishermen from the fishing enterprise who have gone on strike, demanding solutions to several problems related to working conditions, pay, and the organization of the sector. According to sources close to them, the fishermen claim they have worked for months without receiving the compensation they deserve and that basic equipment to carry out their profession is lacking. The strikers are asking for a meeting with the relevant leaders and local government representatives, warning that the protest could escalate if no concrete answers are given. Meanwhile, some of them said that their families' economic situation has worsened and that a quick failure to resolve the situation will have serious social consequences. The event has attracted the attention of the local public, while the responsible institutions are expected to intervene to ease the conflict and restore normality in the fishing sector.

“Peshkqarenë” and “Cirkona”

- HAVE YOU ENCOUNTERED THE ZHULALI SCANDAL? - A “strange” law has not become the basis 300 thousand dollars locked in a chest. — Let us assume for a moment, with doubt… — you begin to praise yourself… … [the column text is partly unreadable in the image and the page continues] … (Continued on page 2)
Zhulali

Bandit Father

MUSA KURTULLA Faced with a press conference in Tiranë, an old question stood out: how far does the responsibility of those who order and those who carry out orders go? The article deals with some recent developments that the author calls signs of a bandit-like spirit in administration and political conduct. The text emphasizes that the language of force, pressure on opponents, and arbitrary use of power cannot be justified for any reason. The author strongly criticizes those who break the law, who think they can impose themselves through fear, and who treat the state as private property. In the end, there is a call for civic and institutional reaction so that the country does not slide toward a false normality, where banditry is accepted as a method of governance.
Musa Kurtulla Tiranë

The Beer Factory - an Example of Restarting the Economy of a Downsized Enterprise

of downsized These days it is common to hear about enterprises, from large stocks of goods to imports and production problems. But the beer factory is being presented as one of the cases where a production structure, with better work and management, manages to emerge from difficulties and increase production. According to the data presented, the factory has increased production rates, expanded its market, and secured better product quality. Its workers see this as an example that can be followed in other sectors of the economy. Representatives of the factory say that with reasonable investments and serious management, many Albanian enterprises can be brought back to life. The case of the beer factory is thus presented as an argument against pessimism and as proof that the economy can once again be set in motion.

21 Activities Will Be Held

Seven fairs, concerts, exhibitions, performances, and conferences make up the core of the Shkodër cultural week that will be organized in the coming days. The organizers announced that the activities will involve creators, artists, and researchers, giving the city a special cultural atmosphere. The program includes various events in several venues around the city, aimed at encouraging public participation and promoting the cultural values of Shkodër. A prominent place will be held by exhibitions and concerts, as well as literary meetings and conferences dedicated to tradition and contemporary developments. According to the announcement, a total of 21 activities will be held during this week. The organizers hope that this rich schedule will help enliven artistic life and strengthen ties between cultural institutions and the public. (Continued on page 2)
Shkodër