THE SOCIALISTS: the state should play an active role in employment for the population Speech by MP Ermelinda Meksi on behalf of the parliamentary group The Labor Code is closely linked to a series of other framework provisions that operate in our country and that apply in the economy and society. The nature of the Labor Code is special, because it is the legal act that contains the most general norms of labor law. These norms are essentially guiding principles for regulating the relations that arise in the course of labor and that involve it. The issues of the Labor Code are varied. First of all, in the responses of the Socialist Group, the view is presented that this is an important step toward creating new labor relations in Albania. Indeed, this draft is based on international norms and conventions, on the experience of Western countries, but also on Albanian legal tradition. So, we are aware that labor issues, the relations between employee and employer, trade unions, social rights, cannot be solved by a single formal act. Nevertheless, this code establishes the necessary foundations. The notable point in the draft is the idea of freedom of the labor contract and the definition of the right of the employee and employer to conclude, amend, and terminate the contract. At the same time, the balance of interests must be preserved and minimum guarantees must not be undermined. Within this framework, the Socialist Group calls for the state to play a more active role in employing the population, encouraging jobs, vocational training policies, and protecting vulnerable groups. Likewise, we emphasize the importance of labor inspection, the protection of women and youth at work, as well as monitoring compliance with technical safety standards. In conclusion, we will support the draft, while also making our remarks to improve some of its articles. (Continued on page 3)

The PS visit in Ankara concluded on 5, 2001 s?rat[?] Përllumba pranëdianalë Stant e Caserat[?] TIRANA, BERISHA-DEMIREL Immediately after leaving Turkey, our president declared: “I have agreed with Turkey that we will mutually support each other’s candidacies...” Albanian-Turkish relations have shown marked growth in recent years, both politically and economically. The visit to Ankara was presented as another stage in this direction. In the official meetings it was emphasized that economic cooperation must reach the level of political cooperation. Discussion focused on trade, investment, transport, tourism, and contacts between business circles. The Albanian president praised Turkey’s support in international forums and underlined the traditional closeness between the two countries. The Turkish side expressed readiness to expand credits and to encourage the participation of Turkish companies in infrastructure projects in Albania. According to reports, regional issues and developments in the Balkans were also touched upon in the talks. (Continued on page 4)

The state and ... a socialist ... A. ASHIKU It has been learned that, by order of the prosecutor’s office, the release of the socialist citizen who had been held in pretrial detention for four months has been carried out. The court decision declared him innocent. The material states that the investigations did not prove the accusations brought against him. The defense lawyer requested compensation for the unlawful arrest. The case has caused reactions in public opinion and has been used as an example of abuses in the justice system. (Continued on page 8)

DURRËS Morgjit[?] and those who hold public functions publicly present contradictory data to public opinion and conceal their responsibilities. For this reason, full clarification of the case is being demanded. The import of olives and black-market smuggling, with cash and without the relevant invoices, after months of administrative investigations, still has not been resolved. In some cases, it appears that the goods were stored in violation of the law. State Control is demanding that the actions be pursued to the end. According to local sources, the seized documents shed light on the involvement of several customs and trade officials. MIRELA NINI (Continued on page 8)

— The deputy director of the enterprise for medical assistance as F[u?]res has b[?]s[?] nd[?]r of Ashtit. — The modern village of SOS Children is expected to become a safe shelter for children without parents and for foster families. The project provides for housing, educational facilities, and recreation centers. Aid comes from humanitarian organizations and foreign donors. The initiative has been welcomed as a new model of social care for orphaned children in Albania. (Continued on page 8)

Burrel Violence in a military unit More than 40 of the boys are short... 11 soldiers of the “Mati” Infantry Battalion, located in a gathering area near the Burrel airport, were beaten without justification...[?] The complaints say that several servicemen suffered injuries and that there is a shortage of food and clothing. The families are demanding an investigation and accountability for the command. (Continued on page 2)

Note from our correspondent Shkodra is turning into a market-garden city The city of the lake and of highland storytelling is facing a new wave of construction and a lack of urban planning. In various neighborhoods, buildings have been erected without permits, while infrastructure remains worn out. Citizens complain about the roads, lighting, and water supply. Specialists warn that the loss of architectural identity is a real risk for Shkodra. (Continued on page 8)

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