Albania appeals for calm in Macedonia

TIRANA, June 2 – Albania condemned the violence that marred Sunday’s general election in Macedonia and appealed to the ethnic Albanian political parties to distance themselves from these acts. Prime Minister Sali Berisha said it was “a pity” to have such incidents during the elections, and urged local authorities in the neighboring country to bring those responsible for violence to the courts. The premier added that elections for Macedonia were important for the country’s aspirations of being integrated into the European Union. Albania’s President, Bamir Topi, also condemned the violence and described it as not in line with the democratic aspirations of Albanians there.
“The role of the Albanian community as a moderator and a partner with the international community cannot be spoiled by these acts of violence. ŠThe EU and democratic orientation of Albanians have nothing in common with the violence used to manipulate election outcomes,” Topi said. Foreign Minister Lulzim Basha also said that the ethnic Albanian political parties in Macedonia should bring the situation under control and avoid the use of violent acts, saying that stability in Macedonia was an important factor for the whole region. (Tirana Times Staff)