Albanian Telegraphic Agency (ATA), 99-04-30

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

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

CONTENTS

[01] Albania's membership in WTO due in summer

[02] Village families welcome Kosova people

[03] Serb military forces fire at Qafe Prush border crossing

[04] Ships, ferries carrying humanitarian aid arrive in Durres daily

[05] French prime minister arrives in Albania

[06] Town halls hold two-day conference on Kosova emergency

[07] Turkey provides humanitarian relief for Kosova people

[08] Washington decision leads to swift solution of Kosova problems

[09] U.S. chief of general staff arrives in Tirana

[10] Tirana currency rate

[11] Vaccination campaign ends in Kukes

[12] Camp for humanitarian association employees to be set up soon in Kukes

[13] Food-supply service for dislocated Kosovars in Kukes to be improved

[14] Schroeder says NATO, Germany determined to end Kosova conflict

[15] Swedish farmers to provide 56 000 liters of milk a month for displaced Kosovars

[16] Serb forces shell Albanian border villages damaging houses

[17] NGOs urge quick customs procedure on humanitarian relief

[18] Britain expresses solidarity with Albanian government, people

[19] Jospin says France is determined to assist Albania

[20] Serb military forces evacuate Prizereni -Another great influx of Kosovars expected to arrive in Albania-

[21] French, Italian military ships arrive in Durres port

[22] Common opinions on present crisis and perspective of its solution

[23] Our cooperation will be positive in all aspects - Robertson

[24] Swiss farmers to provide 56 000 liters of milk a month for displaced Kosovars

[25] Chairman of U.S joint chiefs of staff, General Henry Shelton arrives in Rinas

[26] Padeshi - the village inhabited only by men

[27] Future belongs to human mentality and solidarity - Meidani-Schussel

[28] Milosevic has no other alternative but to surrender - Majko

[29] We say a strong yes to work for Association between EU and Albania - Jospin

[30] Kosova crisis does not affect Albanian currency

[31] Helicopters Apache will be used in right time - Shelton

[32] Serb army commits terror in Prizren

[33] World Bank credits reached to 75 million dollars

[34] Germany will assist Albania to cope with crisis - Fischer

[35] Meidani hails visit of Austrian Foreign Minister

[36] APC aims to fulfill investments in Alpetrol

[37] Emergent projects for villages where Kosova comers are sheltered

[38] Germany to keep supporting Albanian police

[39] Union for Democracy highlights work of Albanian Government to cope with situation

[40] Majko says solution of conflict will pave way for investments in Albania

[01] Albania's membership in WTO due in summer

The Albanian negotiating team headed by the minister of Economic Cooperation and Trade Ermelinda Meksi presented the documentation to be accepted at the organisation and commitments to be met following membership in WTO.

Commissioner Leon Brittan praised Albania's efforts "which in a very difficult moment has presented an offer to enter the market and later follow the track of the European Union."

Albania has asked for membership in WTO in 1992 when it was granted the observer status. /ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[02] Village families welcome Kosova people

Agron Kalo, specialist of the directorate, said that the arrival and accommodation of the Kosovars in village families have caused delays in works of the season. Sowing of maize in only 350 hectares from 1.200 ha last week is a result both of the present situation and the lack of qualitative seeds, which have been provided by international organisations such as FAO, IFDC, Phare program and others. /led/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[03] Serb military forces fire at Qafe Prush border crossing

A spokesman of the police commissariat said to ATA that Serb forces launched flame-thrower in the direction of the border crossing of Qafe Prush at 00.10. a.m. He said that this was a sign of revenge against NATO attacks, which had bombed the Gjakova area.

The news was confirmed by the army and order inspector of the Kukes prefecture Azem Tema, who added that Albanian border forces responded to the attack but it was difficult to define the consequences because it was dark and the Serb forces fired from inland the territory.

Army reinforcements were sent immediately to the site to back the border forces and stabilise the situation. /s.s/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[04] Ships, ferries carrying humanitarian aid arrive in Durres daily

Sources of the port command said that besides four ships, which were unloading flour and other food relief, four ferries of the Albanian-Italian lines providing foodstuffs relief and logistics arrived in port on Thursday.

An increase number of vehicles, which arrive daily in the territory of the port creating difficulties in managing the situation, has forced the port directorate to establish tight control. /led/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[05] French prime minister arrives in Albania

Press office at the Albanian Foreign Ministry told ATA that Jospin would hold talks with president of Albania Rexhep Meidani and deputy prime minister Ilir Meta.

Head of the French government will visit the refugee camp in Kolonje where about one thousand Kosovars have been accommodated as well as the Task Force South troops, one of three NATO-led humanitarian operation contingents under the French command, deployed in Elbasan.

At the end of a one-day visit to Tirana Jospin would hold a joint news conference with the Albanian deputy prime minister Ilir Meta. /led/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[06] Town halls hold two-day conference on Kosova emergency

This conference, the first of this kind, will consider the present situation resulting from the latest development in the Balkan region and possibility of cooperation to provide aid for Kosova people.

Mayor of Durres Arqile Gorrea, who with his colleagues of the city of Vlora and Lezha represents Albania in the forum, briefed them on the situation and presented proposals of the administration he runs to help Kosova families.

A spokesman of the town hall said that the conference would discuss the role of the town halls in development and cooperation between the cities in the Adriatic. /led/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[07] Turkey provides humanitarian relief for Kosova people

Turkish embassy in Tirana said to ATA that the trucks, which entered Albania via Qafe e Thanas on Wednesday, carried 240 tons of food, one thousand mattresses, water tankers and medicaments worth 357 850 dollars.

All the aid will be distributed in the Mjekes camp, Elbasan district, which was constructed by the Turkey's Red Crescent. Other humanitarian relief will arrive in the coming days. /led/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[08] Washington decision leads to swift solution of Kosova problems

Hailing the NATO decisions in the Washington summit, Hajdaraga said that their implementation would lead to a total solution of the Kosova problem in order to make possible the return of the displaced people, deployment of NATO peace-keeping troops and putting Kosova under a protectorate.

"Any solution such as the partition of Kosova and deployment of an unarmed force in Kosova would be considered uncompleted," Hajdaraga said.

Dutch minister of Defence De Grave said that the Dutch government and people were backing Albania in such difficult situation. He said that he agreed with the views of his Albanian counterpart and all the NATO member states to continue air raids. /led/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[09] U.S. chief of general staff arrives in Tirana

A spokesman of the Defence Ministry said that he would be welcomed by the Albanian Defence Minister Luan Hajdaraga and hold a news conference in the airport premises. /ake/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[10] Tirana currency rate

US$1.00 145 German mark 79.2 Italian lire (1000) 79.7 Greek Drachma (100) 47 Euro 153.3

/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[11] Vaccination campaign ends in Kukes

He said that during this campaign undertaken by UNICEF and other Kukes health structures, were vaccinated about 24 270 children against measles, and some 11 082 others against polio.

Gashi added that the district health structures will exercise a control in the remote villages of Kukes where displaced Kosovars may be settled, aiming to vaccinate every child. Epidemics can occur, especially to children, as the weather is getting warmer. /led/A.A/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[12] Camp for humanitarian association employees to be set up soon in Kukes

Sources from Kukes town hall report that the Norwegian government, through an emergency plan of the Civil Protection will soon set up a camp for the personnel of these humanitarian organizations.

The camp aims at creating the necessary conditions for a normal work and living of the members of these organizations. It will be erected in the vicinity of Kukes town and will secure all the necessary conditions. /led/A.A/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[13] Food-supply service for dislocated Kosovars in Kukes to be improved

Town hall council hold several talks with the humanitarian association regarding this issue. "We have got an agreement with the World Food Program and the Red Cross, according to which the displaced Kosovars living in Kukes families will be accorded a monthly package of food items after May 6, while other humanitarian associations will assist only the driven Kosovars sheltered in camps" said Ruka.

The total number of Kosovars dislocated in Kukes amounts to approximately 100 000, of which 60 000 are settled in the city. /led/A.A/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[14] Schroeder says NATO, Germany determined to end Kosova conflict

A government spokesman said that the crisis in Kosova, developments in the region and its future, role of the German and Albanian factor in resolving the crisis as well as bilateral relations were the main topics of negotiations between the two senior officials.

"The way how you are coping with the crisis impressed us more and we want to assure you that you have our solidarity. NATO and Germany are determined to end the conflict in Kosova. We knew and praised the fact that your country backs the West's positions to this end," Chancellor Schroeder said.

He assured Majko that Germany would continue to help Albania.

"We are assessing that Albania's stand is helping the West in trying to resolve the crisis. Germany is continuing to work with political and military means that Kosova war refugees return to their houses and their lives be guaranteed there. Germany is assisting Albania to secure an association accord with the European Union. We also praised the attitude of the Albanian government, which opposes flare-up of the conflict in the region by being cool blood towards Serbian provocations in its borders. We hailed the decision of the Albanian government to welcome Kosova refugees in Albania because this is a chance for their return to Kosova, a move that enjoys our gratitude. I have the impression that now Albania has a brilliant political leadership," Schroeder said.

Majko said that the Albanian government was part of the NATO partnership and its strategy in the region.

"We have offered NATO unlimited accessibility to our military bases," prime minister Majko said.

He added that Albania's decision to welcome refugees from Kosova served as a mechanism of stability for other countries in the Balkan region, mainly Macedonia and later Montenegro.

"We did not allow Milosevic to create a zone of instability around Kosova borders what could hinder NATO action," he said.

Majko said that the future of Kosova is not a formula but a process.

"The first step is to put Kosova under NATO protectorate to be followed with return of refugees to their houses and later elections. I hope that the situation will be cleared up step by step. Military factors are more active than the political ones in Kosova today," prime minister Majko said stressing that all the ideas, which exclude NATO ground troops in Kosova as a guarantee, are unacceptable for the Albanian government.

Majko said that the Albanian government was showing the new role of Albania in a future Balkans. This plan was based on the principle of maintaining stability in the region and considered Albania an important factor for the future stability. As regards this, prime minister Majko explained the relations with Albania's neighbours Macedonia and Montenegro considering Albanians living there a mechanism for the stability of these countries.

He considered relations between Albania and Germany very close and said that the Albanian government devoted attention to these relations.

"Germany is playing a role I have dreamed of in the region. I asked for not only German aid to overcome the grave situation but also partnership for the future in the new stabilised Balkans," Majko said.

Prime minister Majko also met with German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer and Defence minister Rudolf Scharping. /pas/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[15] Swedish farmers to provide 56 000 liters of milk a month for displaced Kosovars

The representative of Swedish association for an emergency situation, Marco O. Nathusius, told ATA that this amount of milk is given gratis by the Swedish farmers. It is a high quality milk packed by a specialized factory, and resists for a long period of time.

Starting from the forthcoming Tuesday, the Swedish farmers are to donate 56 000 liters of milk every month for Durres, to supply the Kosovars with 1-2 liters of milk a day. This milk can be used for children and adults.

Nathusius underlined that they expect to supply with milk other districts after Durres.

Durres Prefecture has taken all the measures for a quick delivery of the milk according to the lists under the observation of its representatives, trying to avoid every kind of abuse. /led/A.A/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[16] Serb forces shell Albanian border villages damaging houses

A spokesman of the local police commissariat said to ATA that some 20 bombs landed in villages of the commune of Zapodi and Borje village damaging two houses in Bele village and a power distribution board in Borje village.

Head of the Zapodi commune Dan Kaloshi, who confirmed the news, said that there were many unexploded bombs, which would represent a risk for local residents. He said that the bombardments in border areas of Kukes were done in a sign of revenge for NATO attack last night against a Serbian military base in the town of Dragash.

The Serbian artillery rounds have raised tension among residents of the border areas of Kukes though there are no reports on their displacement.

Residents of the border villages in Has and Tropoje have removed from their houses. /led/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[17] NGOs urge quick customs procedure on humanitarian relief

The pay clearance process for the aid contingent delivered by the inhabitants of Domodossola (Italy) was delayed a day. The chief in charge of this aids, Tomaso Bisanti, who had encountered the same thing in Kakavije custom house told ATA that that "We respect the Albanian pay clearance laws, but this practice should be quicker".

Sarande town-hall chairman, Thoma Papagjika said that "No other body despite the Finance Ministry and the Governmental Commission on Aid delivering which should fax to the custom houses, has got the right to order aids' pay clearance".

Coordinator of humanitarian association "LIDIA", Andre Van Grol, unloaded the aids near the customhouse offices in order not to prevent the work in other directions.

He added that he could not go every day in Tirane to get an authorization, because the several aids arrive every day in the customhouse. /led/A.A/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[18] Britain expresses solidarity with Albanian government, people

"I want to express the gratitude of the Albanian government for Britain's assistance in coping with the humanitarian crisis, resolving the conflict in Kosova and establishment of peace in the Balkan region," Meta said.

Robertson said "I am here to express the solidarity with the Albanian people and its government not only as the defence minister but also a representative of my people. For this reason, my delegation includes also representatives from major political parties."

Meta said that the Albanian government would tackle the critical situation resulting from the influx of refugees because we are not only dealing with the humanitarian crisis but are also giving a direct contribution to the establishment of peace in the region and swift democratization of the Balkans.

Robertson said that the British prime minister Tony Blair would visit Albania. /led/ak/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[19] Jospin says France is determined to assist Albania

French Premier met first the Albanian President, Rexhep Meidani. The press and information department close to the presidency said that the main issue discussed in the meeting was the necessity for continuation of humanitarian aids provided by the international community for Albania, and the passing of the state of emergency afterwards.

Jospin promised the support of his country for Albania and introduced the creation of a "French fund on reconstruction", destined for midterm development projects in Albania.

French Prime Minister will leave for Elbasan on late Friday where he is to visit the "Task Force South" troops, one of three forces of the NATO humanitarian operation, which is under the French command.

Jospin has scheduled to pay a visit in the refugee camps in Kolonje, where are sheltered 1 000 displaced Kosovars.

Jospin will leave for Skopje on late Friday. Jospin and Albanian Premier, Pandeli Majko, are to hold a press conference at the end of his visit. /led/A.A/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[20] Serb military forces evacuate Prizereni -Another great influx of Kosovars expected to arrive in Albania-

The new comers say that the influx of Kosovars from Prizereni is expected to be increased in the afternoon hours.

One of the displaced Kosovars, Beqir Muja, aged 63, from Prizeren says that Serb paramilitary forces an well as the local police forces entered forcefully their houses breaking into pieces every thing they came across, and threatening the inhabitants to death if they did not immediately leave. Tanks of the Serb forces are also seen in the city in the first hours of Friday".

Kukes Prefect, Qemal Elezi, went to Morine to attend closely the influx of displaced Kosovars arriving in Morine border.

Prizereni city together with its suborns has got a population of 200 000 inhabitants. Its emptiness within a few days would render dramatic the situation created in Kukes. /led/A.A/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[21] French, Italian military ships arrive in Durres port

The French ship named "La Meridionale" started the landing of 90 vehicles. The ship's spokesman said that some 68 soldiers landed from the ship, and together with the vehicles they are to be settled in Elbasan. They are to contribute in the rehabilitation of national roads of the country.

The total number of French soldiers coming in Albania in the framework of NATO mission amounts to 800 people. Their aim is to contribute in the rehabilitation of national roads, assist in the health sector and in delivering the humanitarian aids.

The coordinator of "Rainbow" mission in Durres port, told ATA that the Italian ship "San Marko" started the landing of 83 vehicles and 50 militaries specialized in wood protection will support the military forces of "Rainbow" mission dislocated in Durres district. /led/A.A/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[22] Common opinions on present crisis and perspective of its solution

The two interlocutors, says a report of the President's press and information office, shared the same opinions on the way how the present crisis is being managed and the perspective of its solution.

President Meidani voiced the determination to continue the efforts to maintain the cohesion of the Albanian factor both during the process of the Rambouillet and in the present situation. This is very necessary, the two interlocutors stressed, especially for the perspective of the solution of the problem of Kosove after conditions for a safe returning of the displaced Kosovars are created and all elements of the life there are administered.

President Meidani voiced the gratitude of the Albanian people for the determination of the British public opinion and the Government to support the NATO actions. Referring to the cooperation of Albania with NATO, Meidani said that that there are no differences in the alternatives of the political parties and we may say that there is one party existing now in the country and it is "the party of NATO which includes all Albanians."

Robertson stressed that the British ruling parties and those in opposition have supported the decisions of the Government of Prime Minister Tony Blair because this is the only way to stop genocide and barbarities in that region of Europe.

The British Secretary stressed once more the commitment of PM Blair for the active support of the United Kingdom for Albania and the whole region for the elimination of the consequences of the present crisis. /led/xh/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[23] Our cooperation will be positive in all aspects - Robertson

"We have members in this delegation also from a part of the opposition parties of the British Parliament as an expression of the total support of the United Kingdom for you," said Mr Robertson. Laying the stress on the great problem caused with the huge flow of the displaced Kosovars to Albania, the British Secretary said that "the Albanian government and people have been heroically facing this state of emergency, a situation which would have put to difficulties states even bigger in size and with more resources."

Albanian Minister Hajdaraga briefed his British counterpart with the daily Serb provocations in Northern Albania. "Their aim is clear, to spillover the conflict. Therefore, we judge that the act of NATO is necessary, correct and completely motivated," said Hajdaraga, adding that the destruction of the Serb war machine, the deployment of NATO troops in Kosove, the secure return of the refugees to their territories and a legitimate protectorate in Kosove are the necessary stages for the resolution of the conflict. Minister Hajdaraga stressed that every other proposal such as the division of Kosove, an unarmed international presence, etc., are insufficient and do not solve the crisis.

The U.S. stand and that of U.K. according to Mr Hajdaraga, have the complete support of the Albanian Government and people. "Our aim to be admitted in the NATO and the EU is clear and in this context, we consider necessary the intensification of the bilateral relations," he said.

The British Secretary voiced the full backing of the United Kingdom for Albania also in the future. "Our cooperation will be positive in all aspects. For us it is important to win," stressed Mr. Robertson. /pas/xh/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[24] Swiss farmers to provide 56 000 liters of milk a month for displaced Kosovars

The representative of Swiss association for an emergency situation, Marco O. Nathusius, told ATA that this amount of milk is given gratis by the farmers of Switzerland. It is a high quality milk packed by a specialized factory, and resists for a long period of time.

Starting from the forthcoming Tuesday, the Swiss farmers are to donate 56 000 liters of milk every month for Durres, to supply the Kosovars with 1-2 liters of milk a day. This milk can be used for children and adults.

Nathusius underlined that they expect to supply with milk other districts after Durres.

Durres Prefecture has taken all the measures for a quick delivery of the milk according to the lists under the observation of its representatives, trying to avoid every kind of abuse. /led/A.A/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[25] Chairman of U.S joint chiefs of staff, General Henry Shelton arrives in Rinas

General Shelton reached the airport on the board of a U.S. government airplane at 4.30 (local time.) In one of the halls of the airport, General Shelton is having a tete-a-tete talk with Albanian Defence Minister, Luan Hajdaraga. Later today, General Shelton will have a press briefing. /y.pa/xh/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[26] Padeshi - the village inhabited only by men

No women and children inhabit actually in this district. Such a thing has changed the way of life for the men. No children seen, no toys present, no school functioning. The village has become a barren land because Serb snipers shoot from the other side of the border to anyone at any time.

But the men stand firm there, together with the border police forces and Tropoje brigade forces. The bread is transported at night, and the Serb army keeps shooting trying to take revenge, but such a thing is considered normal now.

Padeshi became known since June of the last year, when it welcomed 17 000 Kosovars steaming into Albania. Azem Hajziri, one of the men of Padesh said that the generosity of these people has got two peculiarities: "First of all it is the characteristic generosity of the Albanians and secondly, and what is more important, we are hosting the brothers of the same blood, our cousins, friends and the like. So it is not the generosity alone."

The border in Padesh was mined for a long period of time "not to allow even the fly to cross to the other side" as the people of this region say. KLA unblocked the border more than three weeks ago, and it has even taken control of the Serb border station in Koshare after a severe clash.

Serb paramilitary forces have often shelled this village as well as the war positions of KLA soldiers. Three houses in Padesh are damaged from the shells, while they continue to shoot at every time of the day with heavy artillery infuriated because they have not managed to take Koshara under control.

In the meantime KLA members announce that Koshara will remain in their hands at any cost. They told ATA that they had dig up fortificated trenches, had heavy weapons in their posession and are exercising a rigorous observation to the Serbs situated only some thousands of miles away. KLA attacked two times the Serb forces, a participant in these clashes told ATA.

Padeshi inhabitants consider as natural the KLA support. All the people in this area are convinced that even the sacrifices are worth making, because an open gate for KLA in the actual conditions is vital. /pas/A.A/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[27] Future belongs to human mentality and solidarity - Meidani-Schussel

Schussel, who has paid several visits to Tirana in a short period of time, told reporters that the reason for his visit now was the grave humanitarian situation and the need for assistance for the Albanian Government to come out of the situation created after the arrival of a huge number of refugees from Kosove.

Mr Schussel visited on Friday the refugee camp set up with Austrian aid, and which on Saturday will be ready to welcome 2 000 people displaced from Kosove.

Mr Schussel and President Meidani discussed the political situation and a peaceful solution for Kosove along with the question of the refugees in the coming winter when they will return to their homes. /pas/xh/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[28] Milosevic has no other alternative but to surrender - Majko

PM Majko said that now the military language is being used in the Balkans and that Milosevic has no other alternative but to surrender. He considered as very precious the acts by NATO and added that "now a special and practical moment has arrived for cooperation in guarateeing the future peace in the region."

Minister Scharping considered a challenge what the Albanian government is making to cope with the situation created as a result of the displacement of the Kosova refuges of war. He informed Mr Majko of the assistance that Germany has offered to cope with the humanitarian problem, by setting up reception centres for refugees and said that this aid is planned to grow.

"We will offer our assistance in line with a plan of the German Government for the stability in the Balkan region," said Minister Scharping. /pas/xh/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[29] We say a strong yes to work for Association between EU and Albania - Jospin

As the Information Ministry reports, Mr Meta appreciated the contribution of the "Paris Club" to freeze the payment of debts by Albania and the insistence of the French Prime Minister to encourage French projects for the long term development and stability of Albania and the Balkans.

Taking the floor in the meeting, the French Premier Jospin voiced the French support for the Albanian people in these moments and the admiration for the way how the Albanian Government is coping with this grave humanitarian situation.

Meta stressed the commitment of the Albanian Government which along with the humanitarian emergency, has to cope also with the question of the country's development through long-term reforms and projects. In this framework, he demanded the support from the French Government for the development and adherence of Albania in the EU as soon as possible.

"We say yes to the work underway for the Association between the EU and Albania. We are more and more thinking of how we shall work for the development of your country and the Balkans after this crisis in order to turn this region into an economically developed zone with peace and democracy prevailing. France has been strongly committed to this process. We are insisting that EU has the ëriority role in the prosperity of your region after the crisis," stated Mr Jospin. /dast/xh/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[30] Kosova crisis does not affect Albanian currency

In the beginning of April 1999 the dollar value in buying marked 146, 4 lek and in selling 147.2 lek. The German mark is bought by 81,1 lek and sold by 81,6 lek, while 1000 Italian lirets are bought by 81,3 lek and sold by 81,8 lek. The values marked by Greek currency are 48,2 leke and 48,45 lek.

After 10 days, great number of Kosovars entered in Albania and the crisis was developing, the Albanian currency strengthens its value against dollar. So in April 10,1999 the dollar id bought by 143,4 lek and sold by 144lek. The same attitude is shown by the Albanian currency against the other foreign currencies.

While in the second period of 10 days, dollar gained some points against the Albanian currency by reaching the value of 145,2 lek. In April 20, 1999 dollar is bought by 145 lek and sold by 145,2 lek. Mark's values were 79,8 lek and 80 lek, while 1000 lirets are bought by 80 lek and sold by 80,2 lek, and EURO is bought by 152 lek and sold by 154 lek.

During the last days of April the currency rate against the Albanian one had been stable. In April 30,1999 American dollar marked the value of 145 lek against the Albanian currency LEK. The German against LEK is 79,2 lek, 1000 Italian lirets marked 79,7 lek, Greek drahmia marked 47 lek and EURO value is 153,3 lek.

The Albanian currency did not "taste" any crisis, even before Kosova conflict came out. In March 1, 1999, a dollar In Tirana Bank marked 141.5 lek, while in February 1, its value was 140,7 lek. The dollar's value in the begining of the year was 140,5 lek.

In the international market it is obvious the dollar strengthening, while the Albanian currency is not affected at all by the consequences of Kosova conflict.

The stability of the Albanian currency is due to the great flow of the foreign currencies in Albania. Kosovars increase the money transfers through the Albanian bankar institutions addressed to their families sheltered in Albania.

According to the sources of the Saving Bank there is an increase of the money transfer in foreign currencies in this bank, which actually is 50%. The coming of NATO soldiers and other foreign citizens is associated with the bringing of the foreign currencies in Albanian currency market./pas/linda/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[31] Helicopters Apache will be used in right time - Shelton

The number one of the U.S. Army stated this today in a press briefing in the Rinas airport, Tirane. General Shelton declared that "Apaches are here but we have not determined when to use them."

General Shelton considered as "successful" the NATO attacks so far in Yugoslavia and assured that the Alliance will continue the efforts to reach its final objective. "I talked with Albanian authorities the work to cope with the humanitarian crisis," said Shelton, who met today in the Rinas airport with the Albanian Defence Minister, Luan Hajdaraga.

Shelton arrived in Rinas late on Friday to inspect the U.S. forces who have come to Albania in the context of the NATO operation "Allied Shelter." /dast/xh/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[32] Serb army commits terror in Prizren

Serbian paramilitaries and soldiers have been concentrated in Prizren and its suburbs, posing a permanent risk for the Albanian population there.

One day ago, near the Catholic church of Prizren, soldiers raided houses, maltreated inhabitants and threatened them that "there will be no Albanian on the Serbian land of Kosova any more", according to Mylazim Lushaj, chairman of the Executive Council for Communication of Kosova.

Lushaj said that the Serb soldiers are using the Albanian youth for their rear works, after dressing them in Yugoslav military uniform.

He said that there are more than 1 200 people forced out of their houses and employed for opening trenches, graves, assembling and culling cattle to feed the Serb soldiers. Many of healthy youths are used as blood banks.

Denouncing the disinforming policy of the TV studio in Prizren, according to which, "Albanians are mobilized according to their will", Lushaj said: "The Nazi Serb Liliana Stojkovic and Borislav Ugrinovic, also supported by Albanian collaborationist Sokol Qyse, seek to give the Serb violence and terror in Prizren and its villages the impression of 'a peaceful army which defends its own Yugoslav people', while the forcibly mobilised Albanians of 'genuine patriots of the Yugoslav state'".

"On our way to Albania we came across with Albanians of Prizren wearing Serb military uniforms, but unarmed. They asked us about their families and wanted to know if their relatives were alive, but we could not give any information as we, ourselves have long since stayed indoors," said some of the displaced from the "Tusus" neighborhood of Prizren.

Other Kosovars deported from Prizren tell that youths after their blood is taken are executed. /pas/lm/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[33] World Bank credits reached to 75 million dollars

Between the Albanian Government and World Bank it is negotiated and agreed in Washington about a new credit of 45 million dollars to be added to the credit of 30 million dollars promised in the beginning of April.

The credit of 45 million dollars will support the structural measures to be undertaken in the frame work of the Program on Structural Arrangement. This has to do with the strengthening of the institutional and governing reform and the establishing of a responsible state.

The credit of 45 million dollars aims at strengthening the institutional capacity and establishing transparent institutions.

This credit will be provided in two parts. The first part consisting of 20 million dollars will be given immediately, while the second part will be given after the fulfilment of the requests on sectoral reforms.

Meanwhile the credit of 30 million dollars provided as budgetary support by the World Bank after the accelerated procedures will start to be disbursed in May 6, 1999.

The sum of 30 million dollars will be a soft one, to be payed within 40 years, with 10 years grant and annual interest of 0,75%./dast/linda/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[34] Germany will assist Albania to cope with crisis - Fischer

PM Majko said to the chief of the German diplomacy in that meeting that Albania is resolute in its strategy to influence in maintaining stability in the region and to this purpose serves also its decision to accept in Albania all Kosova refugees of war." Albanian PM stressed that most of the refugees are women and children. "The men are either massacred or fighting in Kosove," he said.

Referring to the internal situation of Albania, Majko said that now Albania has more stability than previously. "At the same time, my country has generated stability also for the neighbouring countries," said Majko.

Albanian PM said that Albania is showing care also to respond with restraint to the continuous Serb provocations on the border and the aim of Milosevic to escalate the conflict. "We will not allow that Albania be attracted in the conflict and that the present conflict between NATO and the Serb regime change its nature," said Majko.

He gave guarantees that Albania, just as it acted before the peace talks started in Rambouillet, will also work to unify the political and military factor in Kosove. "Hashim Thaci has received the mandate, signed by the LDK, to create a coalition government," he said.

PM Majko said that the solution of the conflict in Kosove would banish hesitation for foreign investments in Albania and in the region. He said Germany and German investments are very welcome and would influence not only in Albania but in the entire region.

The German minister considered as terrible and unacceptable the events taking place in Kosove. "The resolute response of the West and of NATO is not to allow the deportation of a whole people." He guaranteed PM Majko that Germany will do its utmost to assure the necessary assistance for Albania and for the long-term perspective of its development by providing support for the association agreement of Albania with European Union. /pas/xh/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[35] Meidani hails visit of Austrian Foreign Minister

"Austria has a special feeling of affinity for Albania and the bilateral relations have an ancient tradition," said Schussel, pointing to the high sensitivity not only of the private and public media but also of the whole Austrian public opinion, the President's press office reports.

Expressing gratitude to the Austrian leadership and people for the very cordial solidarity to help alleviate the crisis of the Albanian people of Kosova, Meidani hailed the creation of the Austrian Foundation "Neighbours in need", which testifies to this solidarity.

Meidani evaluated the visit of Schussel as significant part of the political and economic support of the international community for the Albanian people and nations at this difficult moment.

Meidani and Schussel also expressed the will of the two countries to intensify and realise a series of Austrian projects in Albania. /dast/lm/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[36] APC aims to fulfill investments in Alpetrol

The uses of the current technology, the improvement of the collection infrastructure, the measures and the transport of the raw oil, are some of the targets to be invested aiming at increasing oil and gasoline production.

APC investments predicted to be realized in the elaborating sector ARMO will aim in installing a new large boiler in termo power station of Ballsh, renewing the actual technology in oil elaboration in Ballsh and the completing of the infrastructures in oil import through reservoirs' park of Vlora.

The expected investments will realize the program of intensive development announced by APC aiming at production's increase, falling of the oil production cost in the values of international market./dast/linda/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[37] Emergent projects for villages where Kosova comers are sheltered

"This projects will be part of the actual ones in agriculture, but they will be implemented with great and quick steps," told ATA the Director of the Projects in the Ministry of Agriculture Arben Molla.

According to him these projects aim at encouraging and supporting the agricultural production in Albania, and to guarantee the facing of the situation created after the great influx of the Kosova comers in order to meet their needs in food.

The idea of the project consists in creation of the rural areas to be involved in quick progress./linda/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[38] Germany to keep supporting Albanian police

The spokeswoman of the Public Order Ministry told ATA that at his meeting with Minister Koci, Schily made known the projects of his government in aid of the Albanian state, especially the police.

He stressed that the political, economic stability and fight against crime is a guarantee for the development of Albania, but it is at the same time of mutual interest.

Koci thanked the German state for the vast aid provided to overcome the situation created in Albania following the influx of Kosova refugees.

He dwelt on the problems and difficulties of the Albanian police, especially at the current moments, when a technical and logistic assistance is urgent.

Further bilateral cooperation, especially in qualified professional training, was the important topic of this meeting.

Schily confirmed the fact that the Albanian police have been included in the new plan of aid of the Federal Government for 1999-2002, which will be passed in parliament in June. /dast/lm/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[39] Union for Democracy highlights work of Albanian Government to cope with situation

The Grouping asked maximal commitment from the Government in the delivery and control of the aid so that to avoid eventual abuses.

Leaders of the political formation highlighted the cooperation between the Albanian Government with NATO in putting at the disposal of these forces the ports and airports, describing this act as indispensable and fruitful for the moment.

This is the first time that leaders of the Union for Democracy voice their backing for the Albanian Government because so far, they have accused the Government of sluggishness and misuse of aid for the displaced Kosovars. /dast/xh/

Albanian Telegraphic Agency

[40] Majko says solution of conflict will pave way for investments in Albania

After portraying the very grave situation created in Albania following the arrival of Kosova war refugees, Majko stressed that "without the aid and solidarity of the simple citizens a humanitarian catastrophe would have been probable in Albania".

Majko said that the essence of the Albanian government's policy is to establish and extend dialogue to other countries of the region in a near future, which, he said will help stabilise the region.

The representatives of the Foundation highly evaluated the way the Albanian government is managing the grave situation. They expressed the desire to provide their long-term assistance in Albania.

Majko also met today with the Secretary of State for Economic Cooperation, Erich Schtater.

He identified the spaces of bilateral cooperation and the perspective a stabilised Balkans and Albania's role in it offer for the future.

"The solution of the conflict will at the same time pave the way for investments in Albania and re-dimension Albania's position in the region," said Majko.

Majko underlined the conviction that Albania will continue to strengthen its stability.

The Secretary for State for Economic Cooperation and Development said that the situation created in Albania and the Balkan region is followed closely by the German economic circles.

"A large delegation of German entrepreneurs will visit Tirane soon to see what can be done in the field of investment," he said.

Majko also met with the foreign policy spokesman of the CDU/CSU faction, Karl Lamers.

Lamers told Majko that the right-wing coalition supports the policy followed by the Albanian government to cope with the crisis created in the region and totally embraces NATO's operation to resolve the crisis. /dast/lm/

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

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