The State Department web site below is a permanent electronic archive of information released prior to January 20, 2001.  Please see www.state.gov for material released since President George W. Bush took office on that date.  This site is not updated so external links may no longer function.  Contact us with any questions about finding information. NOTE: External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views contained therein.

Announcement: Assistant Secretary Shattuck to lead official delegation to observe Albanian Parliamentary Elections June 29, 1997

On June 29 Albanians will go to the polls to elect a new parliament. These elections are especially important since they represent Albania's best hope for forming a democratic government that reflects the confidence of the people. Such a government is necessary to lead Albania out of its current crisis, restore order throughout the country, and deal with the economic consequences of the failure of the pyramid investment schemes. The OSCE is providing technical assistance and advice to enable the Albanians to hold the elections on June 29.

The situation in Albania is one of critical importance for us as well as for our European partners. To demonstrate our support, Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, John Shattuck, will lead a delegation of U.S. government officials to observe the election process. In addition, the delegation will meet with OSCE officials, Albanian election officials, other international and local monitors, and with Albanian political leaders.

Sending the delegation demonstrates the U.S. government's commitment to the Albanian people and support for the democratic process at a particularly difficult time in their history. We would like to take this opportunity to urge all Albanian parties and individuals to participate in the elections in good faith, to renounce violence, and to work together constructively for a better future.

[end of document]

Return to the DOSFAN Home Page. Return to the Secretary's Home Page.
This is an official U.S. Government source for information on the WWW. Inclusion of non-U.S. Government links does not imply endorsement of contents.