Europe starts from Albania From the joint press conference BERISHA-DEMICHEL Our country's independence is a victory of freedom over barbarism and of civilization over fascism. These are the assessments President of the Republic Sali Berisha made yesterday at the joint press conference with his Italian counterpart, Oscar Luigi Scalfaro, who stayed for a several-hour visit in Tirana. Yesterday, instead of drawing an analogy with our country, the President of the Republic of Italy used the image of a nation that has an extraordinary and unique history in this regard. He asked who won the Second World War, democracy or the forces of dictatorship. Of course, the winner was democracy. Therefore, he found it reasonable to regard Albanian society at the beginning of this century as a country of extraordinary vitality, with hopes and dynamism in development. In this context, the President of Italy's visit to Tirana constitutes recognition for Albania and for the level of cooperation between the two countries, especially in a new period of European relations. President Sali Berisha described this visit as important support for Albanian democracy and for the path of integration. President Scalfaro underlined that Europe is a project that begins with respect for the freedom of nations, for their independence, and for their ability to build democratic institutions. He expressed Italy's readiness to help Albania in the reform process and in drawing closer to Europe. (Continued on page 4)

The best way to forget the past is to build the future Statement with Parliament In my country and in the country of our friend, the memory of the fighters and of all those who sacrificed for freedom is honored, but at the same time importance is also given to the new steps toward the future. This is the best way to close the wounds of the past and to build a new cooperation between peoples. The Italian president praised Albanian hospitality and emphasized that relations between our two countries must be based on understanding, mutual assistance, and respect for independence. He said that Albania has its place in Europe and that Italy will support its efforts for integration. In the meeting with Albanian parliamentarians, there was also talk about the importance of democratic institutions, strengthening the rule of law, and the need for economic and social reforms. (Continued on page 4)

Privatization, but there is never any strategy The efforts to make laws more flexible continue with unfinished “blows” Independence for finance in parliament and for the growth of investments requires not only a clear legal framework, but also an accurate development program. In today's debate, concerns were expressed about the lack of a complete strategy and about hasty moves in privatization. It was said that reform cannot be reduced to the sale of enterprises without a clear policy for production, employment, and the market. Various deputies called for a deeper analysis of the social and economic consequences. In closing, it was stressed that the country needs stability, transparency, and a long-term vision. (Continued on page 2)

Provincial leaders at the celebration of freedom The presentation on Tirana in parliament, with debates over investments, local government, and public spending, was followed with interest. The discussions mentioned long-standing problems of administration and coordination between central and local government. According to some speakers, decentralization should not be seen only as a transfer of powers, but also as responsibility for better services to citizens. (Continued on page 2)

Albanian Euro-socialists are united by the social-democratic ideal and not by their ambitions... Contraband goods seized In continuation of the political and economic chronicle, the newspaper also brings short news items. A load of contraband goods has been seized by the relevant authorities, while politically the debates continue around the social-democratic orientation of the Albanian left. According to the comments, unity should be based on values and programs, not on personal ambitions. (Continued on page 4)

The PS steering committee calls for confrontation... Additional information has been gathered on developments in the local branch of the Socialist Party. At the latest meeting, a confrontation of positions and clarification of several organizational issues was requested. Members of the committee stressed the need for unity, respect for the statute, and open debate within the forum. (Continued on page 4) Witnesses involved in the [?] Surveillance files and [?]

Durrës Criminal case opened, but the perpetrator has disappeared - For theft and customs fraud - The district prosecutor's office has begun investigations on the basis of complaints received from various units. This concerns a case in which the suspected perpetrator has not yet been found, while the materials have been referred for further proceedings. The notice says that all circumstances are being verified and that cooperation from the relevant structures has been requested. From our correspondents MIRELA NDINI

Violence against prisoners A surprise inspection in the city's prison revealed violations and the use of violence against prisoners. Administrative and procedural measures are expected in connection with this case. LEVASTI HYSI