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Albanian Telegraphic Agency (ATA), 99-02-02

Albanian Telegraphic Agency Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

From: The Albanian Telegraphic Agency (ATA) Home Page at <http://www.telpress.it/ata>

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

CONTENTS

  • [01] Book "Albanian passions from Berisha to Kosova" presented in Paris
  • [02] Turkey contributes to a peaceful solution to Kosova issue
  • [03] Main requests of health syndicates met
  • [04] World Bank funds judiciary, Albanian PM signs accord on public works
  • [05] Urgent and energetic action expected in Kosova, Doll
  • [06] International community continues assisting Albania
  • [07] File which throws light on VEFA activities, its money transfers discovered
  • [08] Vlore Police Department restructured
  • [09] Parliamentary Commission discusses on cinemas
  • [10] Working staff for order problems set up
  • [11] Plants to grow up again in parks around Skenderg square
  • [12] Livestock - main source to increase income
  • [13] Increase of state authority is related to strengthening of institutions, President
  • [14] Huge investments in education sector
  • [15] Some 200 other kiosks to be removed from Tirana roads
  • [16] Struggles in Deçan, Podujeve outskirts
  • [17] Demaci recommends UÇK not to take part in Rambouillet Conference on Kosova
  • [18] Statement of U.S. Department of State spokesman on meeting Majko- Albright
  • [19] Dollar value against Albanian currency increases slightly
  • [20] Training course for police of Berat by MAPE Mission ends
  • [21] Tourism: Albanian for the first time in a Praga fair
  • [22] Infrastucture under physibility companies supervise
  • [23] Supervising Group to take money gained unfairly
  • [24] We hope KLA will take part in Rambouillet meeting - Milo
  • [25] WTO membership needs security and products standardization
  • [26] Prosecutor demands 25 years of imprisonment for two members of gang "Pusi i Mezinit"
  • [27] Damaged vehicles marked 149.926 lek
  • [28] Constructive dialogue between ruling parties and opposition ones will lead us to reviewing our stance regarding the Parliament - Berisha
  • [29] Albanian Parliament supports foreign policy of Government for consolidation of relations with EU - Speaker
  • [30] Goal keeper Strakosha to receive award "Loro Borici"
  • [31] Europe must invest to stabilize the Balkans - Milo
  • [32] World Bank representatives appreciate cooperation with Albania so far
  • [33] Greek Parliament Speaker meets a delegation of Albanian Parliamentary Foreign Policy Commission

  • [01] Book "Albanian passions from Berisha to Kosova" presented in Paris

    TIRANA, Feb. 1 (ATA) - By O. Kadaifciu: The book "Albanian passions from Berisha to Kosova," written by Pierre Cabanes and Bruno Cabanes was presented recently in the grounds of the Albanian embassy in Paris, the Albanian Foreign Ministry reported to ATA.

    The book published by the Publishing House "Odle Jacob" is a work of reflexion and testimony on today's Albanian, the difficult transition it is facing as the last country of the Communist East. It gives an impressive view of the country with portraits of politicians, intellectuals and artists.

    The authors of the book pay a special attention to the dramatic situation in Kosova. Referring to the historic documents, the authors underline that "Kosova today is the continuity of the antique Dardania," by opposing to some pro-Serb scholars, like H. Tinoq, who have upheld the idea "Kosova - cradle of Serbia."

    They speak of Serb massacre and genocide, but also of the necessity of a final solution.

    The book was presented by the Albanian Ambassador in France, Luan Rama. Further on, the professor Pierre Canabes spoke of the spiritual relations with Albania and Albanians.

    Professor of the history of antiquity in the University "Nanterre" of Paris, Canabes is also a renowned specialist of the Antique Epirus.

    Among the well-known publishment of Cabanes are: The Illyrs from Bardhyl to Gent," published in 1988, and "Introduction to the history of antiquity," published in 1992.

    During 25 years he has been chief of the archeological mission in Albania, where he contributed to the discovery of the archeological small town of Apolonia.

    Attending the ceremony was historians, scholars of different sciences, politicians, former ambassadors of France in Albania, leaders of different foundations, journalists of central press and electronic media, publishers, and others. /lh/mt/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [02] Turkey contributes to a peaceful solution to Kosova issue

    TIRANA, Feb 1 (ATA) - Turkey contributes to international efforts for a peaceful solution to the Kosova issue, Ismail Cem, Turkish Foreign Minister said in statement on Kosova, according to the press office at the Albanian Foreign Ministry.

    Besides letters to U.N. and NATO Secretary General as well as to the OSCE head, minister Cem has sent messages to his counterparts in the United States, Russian Federation, Germany, Great Britan, France and Italy stressing that the Kosova crisis has undertaken a serious dimension both in human and security prospective.

    The Serb side should meet its obligations without delay and fulfil demands of all the people of Kosova including the Turkish minority as well as the demands of the international community, Turkish minister said in his statement.

    He stressed that all national communities in Kosova should enjoy freedom and rights at high level.

    Turkey continued to carry out its diplomatic efforts intensively as regards the Kosova crisis, Cem said.

    "Turkey wants that the bloodshed in Kosova should be over as soon as possible. It backs the NATO decisions on establishment of a peace in Kosova even with military actions," Ismail Cem said in its statement. /lh/ak/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [03] Main requests of health syndicates met

    TIRANE, Feb. 1 (ATA) - By R.Xhuvani: The main requests of the health syndicates, which performed a warning one-day strike for the realization of their requests, are met.

    The realization of the requests was achieved in a meeting organized on Monday between the Health Minister, Leonard Solis, and the representatives of the syndicates of this sector, spokesman of this ministry, Artur Rada, reported.

    After a constructive debate, both parts agreed to set up workgroups, the spokesman explained.

    According to him, the workgroups are to deal with the drafting of a special status for the University Hospital center "Mother Theresa", with the signing of a collective work contact, with the syndicates, with the improving of the work conditions according to the programs the Ministry has got for 1999, as well as the consolidation of the nursing role by installing the new structure in this Ministry

    Regarding the requests for a 20% increase of the wages and the excluding of the tax of solidarity with the police forces, is a second meeting is to be hold after the consultations of the Ministry of Health with the other state instances. /lh/A.A/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [04] World Bank funds judiciary, Albanian PM signs accord on public works

    TIRANA, Feb 1 (ATA) - Albanian premier Pandeli Majko, visiting United States, held talks on Monday with the president of the World Bank Jeff Wolfensohn who expressed the full support of the bank and its readiness to assist Albania in many levels.

    The World Bank will accord a credit worth US$20 million to assist the judiciary in fight against corruption and public administration. Part of the credit will be used for seaside development for which Wolfensohn suggested that it should not be industrial tourism but its values and culture of the area be maintained.

    At the end of the talks, prime minister Majko signed an agreement with the World Bank on public works worth US$8 million. /s.sh/ak/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [05] Urgent and energetic action expected in Kosova, Doll

    - Albania PM meets with U.S. senator -

    TIRANA, Feb. 1 (ATA) - Albania Prime Minister Pandeli Majko started the series of meeting in the United States with the Republican senator, Bob Doll, candidate in the presidential elections of 1996, the Ministry of Information reported.

    Senator Doll is known by the Albanian public opinion for the support he has given to the Kosova issue, which was widely discussed in this meeting.

    Majko and Doll considered the situation in Kosova as dramatic and Doll said that an urgent and energetic action is expected, stressing the necessity for the NATO intervention in Kosova.

    Senator Doll considered Milosevic not only as the evil of Kosova but of the entire Serbia, because he considers violence as the only way to hold the power. Doll thinks that the U.S. Congress would positively demand the deployment of U.S. troops in case of a possible accord. He stressed that no one would allow a second Bosnia in Kosova. Doll added that he himself, called on Clinton on 19 January for a greater engagement in preventing violence and solution of the Kosova issue.

    Albania PM Majko held the second meeting with the President of the World Bank, Jeff Wolfensohn. During this meeting, Wolfensohn voiced his special pleasure for the work of Majko cabinet in these four months of governing, as well as the complete support of the World Bank and its readiness to assist in many levels. /mt/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [06] International community continues assisting Albania

    TIRANA, Feb 1 (ATA) - By I.Luto: Albanian Foreign Minister Paskal Milo held talks late on Monday with its Belgian counterpart Erik Derycke,

    who arrived for a two-day visit to Albania.

    Press office at the Albanian Foreign Ministry said that talks were focused in bilateral relations, Albania's relations with the European Union as well as the situation in Kosova.

    Minister Milo praised the first visit of the Belgian diplomatic chief as a message of boosting politic, economic, cultural and scientific cooperation between the two countries.

    "My visit in Albania takes place after that of my Portuguese counterpart Gama and will be followed by a visit of the German foreign minister Fischer soon," Derycke said.

    "This shows the support of the international community for Albania both in political and other fields of mutual interests," he said.

    Later, the Belgian foreign minister was interested to known the ongoing political stability in Albania, stability which opened perspectives for investments and overall development in Albania.

    Albanian minister Milo briefed his Belgian counterpart on the latest efforts of the Albanian government in establishing dialogue with the opposition particularly with the Democratic party in order that the political life be stabilized.

    As regards the situation in Kosova, both ministers expressed concern over the grave situation there. They called on warring sides to respect the latest platform prepared by the Contact Group to start negotiation and end fighting. /dast/ak/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [07] File which throws light on VEFA activities, its money transfers discovered

    TIRANE, Feb.1 (ATA) - By Th.Thanasi: The Swedish prosecutors handed over to their Albanian counterparts the copy of a file in which is reflected the activity and some transfers of the Albanian ex-company Vefa, during a work-visit of some Albanian prosecutors in Switzerland.

    The spokesman of the General Attorney Office, told ATA on Monday, that the group of the Albanian prosecutors who were in a three-day visit in Zyrih, were given a copy of the full file, which throws light upon the activity and the transfers of VEFA company with the President Mr. Vehbi Alimuçaj, who is actually in jails in Tirane prison.

    "The materials of the file clear out some of the VEFA transfers toward Switzerland and other foreign countries", one of the prosecutors taking part in the workshop with the Swedish prosecutors, Bujar Himçi, explained.

    According to Himçi, among the materials of VEFA file, is marked the creation of some fictive mutual companies, where result to be implied even Hajdin Sejdia, actually under legal procedures in Germany because of being accused of fraud.

    There are even other persons implied with VEFA issue, among them even senior foreign advocates, who have collaborated with Vehbi Alimuçaj and Hajdin Sejdia, added Himçi.

    By touching the most critical point for Albanians on the possibilities of restituition of money transferred abroad, Himçi precisely said: "It is a long process, but not impossible".

    A group of two prosecutors of the General Attorney Office and an officer of the legal police took part last week in the mutual work meeting with Swedish prosecutors in Zyrich. One of the issues discussed in the meeting was the necessity of bilateral cooperation for the problems with the reciprocal concerns. /lh/A.A/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [08] Vlore Police Department restructured

    VLORE, Feb. 1 (ATA) - By H. Koci: The Police Department of the Vlore Prefecture is restructured. The reshuffles were announced by the General Police Department Director, Veli Myftari, who arrived in this town in the head of a team from the Ministry of Public Order, the spokesman of the Police Department reported to ATA. He added that the effective of the Vlore Police will be directed by a commissariat, whose chief will be appointed the former chief of commissariat no. 1, Demir Demiri.

    The spokesman said that order chief in this commissariat will be named Hader Cako.

    The Police Department of Vlore has three commissariats: of Vlore, Sarande and Delvine. The effective of the department will be led by colonel Sokol Kociu, appointed in this duty three months ago.

    The reshuffles in the Vlore police are carried out after the recent riots when the police forces faced the tough reaction of a group of speed boat owners, because the police blocked six navigation vessels on 23 January. /dast/mt/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [09] Parliamentary Commission discusses on cinemas

    TIRANE, Feb. 1 (ATA) - By K.Shehu: The Parliamentary Commission of Culture, met on Monday midday, had in the center of its discussions the destruction of the network of public cimenas all over the Albanian territory during the last years.

    Out of 49 cinemas situated in Albania, 18 are privatized, 26 are given for rent, while 5 of them are given to mutual enterprises. This was the issue on which the representatives of the parliamentary group wanted to "investigate" the legal and financial violations.

    All this wrong procedure has changed the destination of the cinemas. One of the most typical cases in the capital is the cinema "Partizani". Its building has become a bingo now. Big violations of law are also seen in the Cultural Palace in Tirane.

    The meeting set forward thoughts how to overcome this situation, and stressed the sensitization of all the instances and structures for solving of these problems. /dast/A.A/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [10] Working staff for order problems set up

    KORCE, Feb. (ATA) - By B. Fejzullaj: A working staff regarding order problems has been set up in the prefecture of Korce.

    The governor Bardhi Alickolli reported on Monday during the meeting of the administration council of the prefecture the establishment of a working staff, which will function on prefecture and district level regarding the order problems.

    "The engagement of all state structures in the restoration of order and tranquility will be a guarantee for the stability in the future," said Alickolli in this meeting, attending were officials of local government, representatives of police and taxes.

    Arben Joca, director of police prefecture, talking about the order situation in the country, said that the criminality was reduced by 7% during 1998 compared with the previous year. After pointing out, the obvious results of police in uncovering the crime during January 1999, he put forward the necessity for the equipment of police with logistic means.

    Representatives of the Ministry of Order and that of Local Government, present in this meeting, estimated the work done and promised their assistance of these ministries for order bodies. /dast/mt/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [11] Plants to grow up again in parks around Skenderg square

    TIRANA, Feb 2 (ATA) - By G. Dilaveri: Rehabilitation of all parks around Skenderbeg square in the capital will end within the first third- month period of 1999, parks occupied a month ago by kiosks.

    The public service enterprise has worked out projects and studies for their rehabilitation and funds will be approved soon, Hazis Marku, enterprise director, said to ATA.

    A special project was worked out to reconstruct the park behind the Skenderbeg monument, which was one of the oldest in the city. It was created in '30, according to Italian projects.

    The park area after and in front of the National Historic Museum was cleared off kiosks and would be sown with ornamental plants, Marku said.

    The end of projects in Skenderbeg square paves way for a complete study on illumination of the center to Tirana. /dast/ak/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [12] Livestock - main source to increase income

    HAS, Feb 2 (ATA) - By R. Hoxha: Private farmers in Kukes district are interested in developing livestock as the most productive branch in the area.

    The local farmers secure over 70 percent of income by livestock.

    "A lot of pastures and the climate of the area favours the development of livestock," Azem Mazreku, chief of the local agricultural directorate, said to ATA.

    A district numbering some 25 thousand inhabitants breeds some 9.800 herds of cattle and 16.800 herds of goat. Mazreku said that numerical increase of cattle herds have reached maximum limits.

    Specialists say that they are much interested in increasing productivity. 1998 has recorded an increase of some 6. 900 tons in milk production and some 600 tons in meat, higher than previous years. Prophylactic measures which include vaccination of livestock against different diseases has helped to this end. /ake/ak/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [13] Increase of state authority is related to strengthening of institutions, President

    TIRANA, Feb. 2 (ATA) - Albania President Rexhep Meidani met Tuesday with the Belgian Foreign Minister, Derycke and the delegation accompanying him, President press office reported.

    President Meidani familiarized the Belgian guest with the steps made in Albania to strengthen the institutions in all powers through the legal improvements and other steps.

    "The increase of the state authority is closely related to the strengthening, development of the normal democratic life within the institutions, with institutions being the protagonist and not special names, " said Meidani.

    He briefed on the progress made for the installation of the democratic mentality in the judiciary, fight against corruption and lack of professionalism in this system.

    The head of the state also spoke of the direction where the cooperation and assistance of European bodies should be concentrated to strengthen the Albanian police.

    President Meidani discussed the Kosova issue. With regard to the future talks in Rambouillet of France, he said that their outcome should be guaranteed by NATO presence on the ground. "The precious time must not be lost, as it has been lost until now," Meidani told the Belgian Foreign Minister.

    Attending the meeting was also the Albanian Foreign Minister, Paskal Milo and the extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador of Albania in the kingdom of Belgium, Idriz Basha. /pas/mt/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [14] Huge investments in education sector

    TIRANE, Feb. 2 (ATA) - By P.Shuteriqi: New school buildings and reconstruction of the existing school building are comprised in the investment plan of state budget for 1999.

    The director of this sector in the Ministry of Education and Science, Isuf Bogdani, told ATA on Tuesday, that only for the preschool network are planned to be invested during the current year some 60 million leks. 26 million out of this fund is to be mainly used for reconstructions.

    Bogdani said that this year the state budget is to allocate 610 000 000 leks for the elementary schools, for construction of some new schools and the reconstruction of the existing ones situated all over the country. Some 210 000 000 leks are foreseen to be invested for the general and professional high schools.

    A sum of 135 million leks is to be invested during 1999 for construction and reconstruction of teaching classrooms in the Albanian universities. Only for the construction of the new economic faculty are foreseen to be invested 135 million leks.

    The Faculty of Natural Sciences, Medicine Faculty, Historic- Philologic Faculty are the universities to be constructed in the University of Tirane. Some 3 objects are also to be reconstructed in the Agricultural Ministry of Kamez. Constructions are also to be carried out in the Academy of Beautiful Arts and in the universities of Shkoder, Korçe, Vlore, Elbasani. /pas/A.A/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [15] Some 200 other kiosks to be removed from Tirana roads

    TIRANE, Feb. 2 (ATA) - By G.Dilaveri: The action of kiosks removal is to continue in the main streets of Tirane during the 20 first days of February, the director of the Construction Police, Proletar Roshi, told ATA, on Tuesday.

    Some 62 kiosks are to be removed from the Durres street till 5 February, 71 kiosks are to be pulled off from Kavaja street within 12 February, while some 64 kiosks re to be removed from "Mine Peza" street within February 20. The Building Police has told the electric enterprise to cut the electricity in these kiosks.

    The action of pulling off the kiosks begun in the last days of the outgoing year in the center of Tirane. This action was admired and supported by majority part of population.

    With the initiative of the Premier Pandeli Majko begun in Tirane the action "For a clean and cultural Tirane" at the beginning of the year. About 200 removed kiosks, hundreds of evaded offscourings, whole surfaces sown with plants, tens of reconstructions in the electric network - these are the results of the 10 second days of the action. /pas/A.A/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [16] Struggles in Deçan, Podujeve outskirts

    PRISHTINE, Feb. 2 - ATA correspondent, Behlul Jashari reports: Sources from Deçan report

    that the Serb forces are carrying on today an attack begun late on Monday against the villages Ratishte, Dashinice, by shelling with a heavy artillery the region of Deçan near the Albanian border.

    Reports from Podujeve say that the Serb forces have shelled towards the villages Llapashtice, Godishnjak, Majac and towards some other villages situated on the western part of the road Prishtine-Podujeve. Sources from the ground report also for a strong resistance of the Kosova Liberation Army. /P.Ta/A.A/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [17] Demaci recommends UÇK not to take part in Rambouillet Conference on Kosova

    PRISHTINA, Feb. 2 - ATA correspondent in Prishtina, Belul Jashari, reports:

    The general political representative of the Kosova Liberation Army (UÇK), Adem Demaci, reported that he has recommended the General Staff of UÇK not to take part in the talks of Rambouillet (France.) "The decision should be taken by the General Staff itself and will be soon announced, probably by tomorrow," said Demaci.

    "There can be no pararel negotiations with the offensives and the Serb terror in Kosova and as long as Belgrade does not meet the resolutions of the Security Council and other international agreements on Kosova. We cannot accept that autonomy wanting to impose on us, neither the capitulation. The temporary solution should also foresee the realization of the will of the people for independence, expressed through the referendum and all the international guaranties are needed for this," said Demaci.

    With regard to an invitation of Rugova to meet Tuesday at 13:00, Demaci said that "he could not go because of having a busy agenda," while regarding the demands for the unification of the political forces, he stressed that "there is no time to join around Rugova, but around the liberation army and UÇK." /mt/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [18] Statement of U.S. Department of State spokesman on meeting Majko- Albright

    TIRANA, Feb. 2 (ATA) - The spokesman of the U.S. State Department, James Robin, issued the following release regarding the meeting of the U.S. Secretary Madaleine Albright and the Albanian Prime Minister, Pandeli Majko.

    Follows the complete text of the release: "Secretary Albright and Albanian Prime Minister Pandeli Majko met in Washington on February 1 for productive discussions on Albania's democratic and free market economic reforms, on developments in Kosovo, and on U.S.- Albanian relations. The Secretary commended the accomplishments of Prime Minister Majko's first four months in office, citing the successful adoption of e new constitution, improved dialogue with the opposition, and rapid progress toward membership in the World Trade Organization. They also discussed developments in Kosovo, deploring the later atrocities and examining the next steps required in the international bid for peace.

    The Secretary encouraged Prime Minister majko to continue his successful efforts to re-invigorate Albania's domestic political dialogue, and both expressed the hope that the opposition Democratic Party would soon end its boycott of Parliament. The Secretary underscored the importance of continued progress in the Albanian Government's fight against corruption and for the reestablishment of public order. This includes institutionalizing the rule of law in general, vital components of which are stronger safeguards for human rights and due process, as well as reforms to further professionalize Albania's judiciary and police. The Secretary, while recognizing that so much of the burden for devising and executing the process of political and economic reforms falls to Albanians and their institutions, also reaffirmed the United States' continued determination to help Albania take these necessary steps. The Secretary underscored her support for the Friends of Albania group of countries and multilateral organizations dedicated to assisting Albania on the path to political stabilization and economic development.

    Prime Minister Majko provided Albania's perspectives on the Kosovo situation and the Secretary briefed the Prime Minister on the efforts of the United States to find a settlement to the Kosovo problem and an end to the bloodshed there. In addition, the Secretary sought Prime Minister Majko's assistance in securing the participation of the Kosovar Albanian leadership, including the KLA, in the settlement negotiations to get underway in France by this weekend. The Secretary expressed her hope that a successful conclusion to the upcoming peace settlement would continue to assure Albania's territorial integrity." /mt/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [19] Dollar value against Albanian currency increases slightly

    Tirana, Feb.2 (ATA) - By Lolita Thanasi - Dollar value increases slightly today against Albanian Currency in exchange market of Tirana. According to the fixed values of Tirana Bank yesterday a dollar was 140.7 lek, while today it marks the value of 141.0 lek. DM against Albanian LEK is 82 lek, LIT(1000) against it is 82.1, GRD(100) is 49.4 lek and EURO 158.77 lek.

    The following is the exchange rate of the foreign currencies against Albanian one:

    Currency	Rate
    USD		141.00
    DM		 82.00
    LIT(1000)	 82.10
    GRD(100)	 49.40
    EURO		158.77
    
    /linda/
    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [20] Training course for police of Berat by MAPE Mission ends

    TIRANE, Feb.2 (ata) - By Urim Bajrami: The training course for police of Berat organized and held by MAPE Mission for several weeks, has ended.

    According to the technical adviser of the French office of the MAPE Mission in Albania, Major Rene Carletto, the results of this course were excellent. Carletto said that these results will be also seen during the ceremony to be held in Berat on occasion of the completion of the training course, with demonstrations of physical training for self-defence, the way of escorting VIP-s, for blocking the demonstrators, the arrest of criminals, etc.

    The course was held on the basis of a midterm program drafted by both sides.

    The work of the MAPE Mission in Albania started on the basis of the analysis made by the fact-gathering mission in spring 1997. The continuous advice and training will be the objectives of this mission also in the future. /pas/xh/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [21] Tourism: Albanian for the first time in a Praga fair

    Tirana, Feb.2 (ATA) - By A.Lila - February 12-19 is the time when a international fair on tourism is going to be hold in Prage, where Albanian is presented for the first time.

    Albania is going to be presented by ALBTURIST and the Commettee of Tourism Development in this fair.

    One of the Albanian priorities in this fair is the wonderful places, especially seaside and the mountainous lakes, that actually are not so visited from the tourists./linda/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [22] Infrastucture under physibility companies supervise

    Tirana, Feb.2 (ATA) - By M.Pupa - In the frame of the Southeren Balcan Progress (SBP) several projects on Albanian economic development are planned for 1999.

    Here are included machineries on ports deepening, marking the value of $1.5 million, and the study of Durresi terminal physibility, as well. Bechtel company is going to do this study.

    In this project is included also the physibility study on railway between Albania and Macedonia. This study will cover the value of transport infrastructure, and the proxy of an amount of locomotives on Tirana-Durres line, that will make possible the fast communication between the two towns./linda/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [23] Supervising Group to take money gained unfairly

    Tirana, Feb.2 (ATA) - By L.Thanasi - According to the Supervising Group in the group of the people declared to have connection with the borrowing companies are include their administrative staff, managers, debtors and the category of physic and juridical persons that benefit financial values from the borrowing companies.

    The Supervising Group, defined from the Albanian Government, declared today to announce the persons to turn back the money benefited unfairly from the borrowing companies./Ih/linda/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [24] We hope KLA will take part in Rambouillet meeting - Milo

    TIRANE, Feb.2 (ata) - By Ilir Paco: Albanian Foreign Minister Paskal Milo said Tuesday that the request of Adem Demaci to the KLA not to take part in the meeting of Rambouillet "is his personal opinion."

    "The institutions of the Liberation Army have not yet made their decision about it. We hope that until the evening they will decide for what all are wishing them to do," said the Foreign Minister of Albania, Paskal Milo in response to a question by ATA.

    The chief of Albanian diplomacy called in a news conference on Tuesday on all Albanian political factor of Kosove and in particular the KLA, to go to the Rambouillet with a common opinion.

    Minister Milo made the comments in a news conference with the Belgian Foreign Minister Erik Derycke, who was on a two-day visit to Tirane.

    Derycke said that "the broadest possible representation of the Albanians of Kosove in Rambouillet would be a positive step," but he avoided responding the question whether the failure of the KLA to take part in the talks would be a failure for the meeting as well. "If an agreement of peace is not attained, I would call it a failure, but I would give another answer to this question, that the success depends on the broadest possible participation of all the parties in the meeting," said Derycke.

    For the leader of the Albanians of Kosove, Ibrahim Rugova, who has voiced the readiness to go to the Rambouillet meeting, the chief of the Belgian diplomacy said that he (Rugova) is a personality, and knows what his people need. "We have much respect for him and Europe will work with him in the future," said Derycke. "Our aim is peace, the end of bloodshed and then discussion on political structures in Kosove," he said, adding that "I would hate the fact that Milosevic may be given the chance to say that Albanians couldn't form a joint representation."

    Derycke said that he asked the government of Albania to influence in the Albanian factor to go to Rambouillet and hailed its efforts made so far for the unification of the stance of the Kosovars in front of the international community. /y.pa/xh/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [25] WTO membership needs security and products standardization

    Tirana, Feb.2 (ATA) - By D.Koça - The security and the standardization of the products must be guaranted from the government, while their quality have to defined by the customers themselves. These is what the representatives of Standardization and Quality Directory said in today's seminar, in coorperation with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Tirana.

    The standardization and the quality of the products is of a great importance today, when in the Albanian market are on sale different products, whose standardization is so poor. The government has to do more on this issue, having in mind the objective to become a member of WTO.

    According to the representatives of Standardization and Quality Directory, the law has to define the security level of the product and the ways to be achived./Ih/linda/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [26] Prosecutor demands 25 years of imprisonment for two members of gang "Pusi i Mezinit"

    TIRANE,,Feb.2 (ata) - By Urim Bajrami: Another session of the trial for the gang "Pusi i Mezinit" in the district of Vlore was held in the Tirane district Court on Tuesday.

    Two of the defendants Agron Bilali and Gezim Kasemi are accused of 4 premeditated murders.

    On the basis of the facts and hearing, and the medical reports for the two defendants proving which proved they were normal, the prosecutor of the case asked that they be declared guilty and sentenced with 25 years in jail.

    The coming session will be held on February 10 with the hearing of the defence attorneys. /pas/xh/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [27] Damaged vehicles marked 149.926 lek

    Tirana, Feb.2 (ATA) - By A.Lila - During the INSIG annual analyse organised last days it is announced that the number of the damaged vehicles in 1998 is 1.116, while only 149.926 new lek are paid. This is conferd for ATA by Arben Bezhani, the chief of damage treatment. He said that this figure is higher compared with that of the previous year, when 915 are damaged and 115.551 lek are paid.

    Meanwhile, the number of health demages assured from INSIG is 25, their value is 9.338 lek. The number of these cases in 1997 was 45, having the value of 12.297 lek.

    Wealth damages are 8 and marks the value of 8.526 lek, while in 1997 their number was 7 having tha value of 715 lek./linda/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [28] Constructive dialogue between ruling parties and opposition ones will lead us to reviewing our stance regarding the Parliament - Berisha

    TIRANE, Feb.2 (ata) - By A Haxhiu: Belgian Foreign Minister Erik Derycke held Tuesday a meeting with the chairman of the Democratic Party of Albania, Sali Berisha.

    In the centre of the meeting which was held without the presence of reporters, was the political situation in Albania, the stance of DP towards this situation, towards the Albanian Parliament and the grave situation in Kosove.

    "I explained to the Belgian Minister the conditions which brought DP out of Parliament, but I assured him that now we are for dialogue and if the the government would be serious in these steps. DP will have no hindrances to review its stance towards this institution," said Berisha for the press following the meeting with the Belgian Foreign Minister.

    Berisha said that not only the Belgian Minister but any other EU minister has not other request but for a parliamentary life and this is very normal.

    "I hailed the latest efforts of the Contact Group especially the decision of France, Great Britain, Germany and Italy to send troops to Kosove. The Rambouillet meeting is a very serious commitment to Kosove," said Berisha.

    After hailing the confirmation of the political forces of Kosove for their participation in the meeting in Rambouillet, Berisha appealed on the Kosove Liberation Army to take part in the meeting.

    "Their failure to appear in the meeting will be in favour of Milosevic," said Sali Berisha to reporters. /lh/xh/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [29] Albanian Parliament supports foreign policy of Government for consolidation of relations with EU - Speaker

    TIRANE, Feb.2 (ata) - In a meeting held Tuesday with the Belgian Foreign Minister, Erik Derycke, the Chairman of the People's Assembly of Albania, Skender Gjinushi, expressed his idea for the further materialization of the relations between Albania and Belgium. He stressed that Albanian Parliament supports the foreign policy of the Government for the consolidation of the relations with the EU and the country's integration in the Euro- Atlantic structures.

    Gjinushi pointed out that Albanian Parliament and all Albanian institutions are maximally committed to consolidation of the rule of law in Albania and to this purpose serves the adoption of the Constitution in November 1998.

    Gjinushi focused in particular on the questions of the judiciary, which, according to him, is 'still a weak point." He said that the new constitution and the law on judiciaries do really ensure the independence for this institution.

    Gjinushi said that Albania welcomes investments and stressed that it has now all the necessary legal infrastructure.

    In reply to a question of the Belgian Foreign Minister, the Parliament Speaker stressed the stance of the Albanian Parliament for the question of the Albanian population in Kosove. He said that the People's Assembly is for a peaceful solution through negotiations and back up the will of the Albanian people in Kosove for self-determination.

    "Kosovars must enjoy all the standards of the freedoms and rights that all other peoples in the former Yugoslavia are enjoying," said Gjinushi. He added that the KLA is expressing a people's legitimate reaction and there is no talk of terrorist acts on its part.

    Stressing the appeal of the People's Assembly for the presence of NATO in Kosove, Gjinushi said Albanian supports the latest solutions offered by the Contact Group until the final status of Kosove is decided after three years. /pas/xh/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [30] Goal keeper Strakosha to receive award "Loro Borici"

    TIRANE, Feb.1 (ata) - By B Meta: The goal keeper of Albania's national fooball team Fotaq Strakosha will be handed over by the Albanian Football Federation the award "Loro Borici", the loftiest soccer valuation that the AFF offers.

    The distinguished goal keeper of Albanian national soccer team is expected to receive the great award the coming Wednesday at the beginning of the friendly match of Albanian national team versus Macedonian national team of football.

    Strakosha is awarded in the Greek championship the title "Footballer of the year." /lh/xh/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [31] Europe must invest to stabilize the Balkans - Milo

    TIRANE, Feb.2 (ata) - By I Luto: Albanian Foreign Minister Paskal Milo had a meeting Tuesday with the Coordinator of the Southeastern Europe Cooperation Initiative (SECI) Erhard Busek, in which he voiced the stance of the Albania's Government in regard with its integration in Euro-Atlantic structures, the press and information department of the Albanian Foreign Ministry said to ATA.

    During the meeting Busec said that SECI is making efforts to be integrated in Europe. Busek said that Albania must make improvements especially in the field of public order because foreign investors cannot come to Albania in this situation.

    Minister Milo said that Albania is making efforts to create the necessary infrastructure for SECI. "We want to be active in this line and the inter-ministerial committee created recently is working intensively to this end. We hope that the situation in Albania will keep improving, said Milo.

    All the regional countries have joined this initiative, said Milo, but at first the necessary climate to work for this project must be created. Europe must invest to stabilize the Balkans. Its stance of waiting to see what will happen in the Balkans would have a very dear prize, stressed Albanian Foreign minister cited by the press and information department of his ministry. /lh/xh/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [32] World Bank representatives appreciate cooperation with Albania so far

    - PM Majko visits United States -

    TIRANE, Feb.2 (ata) - Albanian Prime Minister Pandeli Majko, along the meetings with U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, U.S. Senator Bob Dole and the President of the World Bank, Wolfesohn, had also a meeting with the Regional Deputy President of the World Bank for Europe and Central Asia, Johannes Linn.

    The Ministry of Information reports that the meeting treated in details the relations between Albania and the World Bank. Representatives of this institution highlighted the cooperation made so far with Albania and determined the main directions of this cooperation in the future, such as the consolidation of financial sector, support for the administrative and judiciary reforms, continuation of projects in the social sector, assistance for the management of public services and the development of tourism.

    In the meeting between PM Pandeli Majko and the U.S. Attorney General and Minister of Justice Janet Reno the interlocutors dwelt extensively on the situation in Albanian judiciary and the development of the Albanian- American relations and cooperation in the field of judiciary.

    Reno stressed the readiness of the U.S. to cooperate with criminal police, especially in the fight against drug-trafficking. She told PM Majko that the American party had approved and will start a program of training for Albanian judges and attorneys.

    At the end of the meeting, PM Majko invited Minister Reno for a visit to Albania, which she accepted with pleasure. lh/xh/

    Albanian Telegraphic Agency

    [33] Greek Parliament Speaker meets a delegation of Albanian Parliamentary Foreign Policy Commission

    TIRANE, Feb.2 (ata) - Various aspects of bilateral relations were extensively discussed in a meeting that the Greek Parliament Speaker, Apostolos Kaklamanis, had Tuesday with a delegation of the Foreign Policy Commission of the People's Assembly of Albania, led by Sabri Godo.

    The press office of the People's Assembly reports that participants in the meeting noted the good level of the relations and their further development in the future.

    Speaking of some projects, Mr Godo underlined the importance of the agreement signed for the improvement of border posts which will also prevent border incidents, the importance of the education of children of the Albanian refugees in their national language and the recognition of mutual ownerships right for both countries.

    The question of Kosove took a special place in the talk. Both parties expressed the will for a peaceful solution and in this respect the opinions were not fully similar.

    Mr. Kaklamanis voiced the desire for an official visit to Albania in spring this year.

    On Tuesday, talks were held in the Greek Parliament between the parliamentary foreign policy commission of the two countries. Both parties confirmed the good will for the solution of different questions preoccupying the two countries, whereas for Kosove, various opinions were expressed on the possibilities for a just solution of it.

    Attending the meeting also were the ambassadors of the two countries, Kastriot Robo of Albania and Kostandinos Prevenduraqis of Greece. /lh/xh/


    From the Albanian Telegraphic Agency (ATA) Home Page at http://www.telpress.it/ata


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