On the eve of the 2nd Congress of the Socialist Party In the elections of 22 March 1992, the Albanian electorate entrusted the Socialist Party with the mission of remaining in opposition. It was a difficult mission, but a necessary one, especially for a transition phase such as Albania was, and still is, perhaps preceded by many traumas and major changes. In these four years, the Socialist Party has emerged, through its political activity, as a determined but also constructive force. The Socialist Party continued this mission consistently. Because its governing policy led Albania to its most serious crossroads, the PDS in this period was thrown out of the coalition, beginning the opposition! The PS was determined, because opposition was its main task. Page 4 SECOND CONGRESS OF THE SOCIALIST PARTY OF ALBANIA TIRANA, 23-24 MARCH '96

Human Rights Watch writes to Berisha Page 5

- Interview with comrade Gramoz Ruçi, General Secretary of the Socialist Party Page 2

Many European left-wing parties have confirmed their participation in the congress. - Interview with the vice-chairman of the Socialist Party, Ilir Meta Page 3

We want good relations with Albania regardless of the parties that form the governments Greek President Stefanopoulos in Tirana Page 12

Page 8 The law- - forced move of the Meksi Government

Appeal of the Albanian Helsinki Committee Press Freedom must be respected Page 9

Economy Page 7

Reflections A desperate appeal of a presidential spectacle From the survey, to reality Page 6