German Foreign Minister Kinkel told Prime Minister Fatos Nano yesterday: “You have the opportunity today to establish democracy in Albania” Prime Minister Fatos Nano received German Foreign Minister Kinkel yesterday. Mr. Kinkel concluded his meeting with C’Përdoson in Tirana and came to Albania. After the talks, according to the prime minister’s cabinet press spokesman, Mr. Kinkel said that from now on Germany and the EU will not neglect the economic, cultural and military reconstruction of this country, for which he highly գնահատed the positive changes in Albania’s stability after the general elections. In Kinkel’s statement it is noted that the most important factors to help Albania on this path are aid programs for democracy and the market economy, while emphasizing the establishment of order and calm, for which the Albanian government is doing important work. Even during yesterday’s talks, Mr. Kinkel stressed, such factors, with a good example and in cooperation with Albanian political forces, can be overcome and lead to the common goal, that of a secure peace and future in our country. Of great importance, Mr. Kinkel also praised the cooperation of the armed forces with state structures, calling the government’s determination to restore order encouraging. “I consider it wise to take steps to create conditions so that the voices of terrorism do not yet dominate the future of the economy in the present,” he said. Speaking also about the aid program for the reconstruction of infrastructure, for order and for advice on the new Albanian administration, and about the adoption of many of these programs, Minister Kinkel said that Germany considers it essential to continue being one of the main contributors in Albania. Further on, the German Foreign Minister stressed that Albania’s stability and the progress of democratic reforms in our country constitute an important example for the entire region. - Mr. Kinkel made clear the necessity of strengthening the coalition with a common stance in Albania.

The fiscal package in the public spotlight page 7

Albanian Helsinki Committee: page 5

An irresponsible statement page 2