Statement by the Press Secretary on the Situation in Albania

March 11, 1997

1. Concerning the disturbances caused by the pyramid investment schemes, in the south of Albania, Japan welcomes the fact that as a result of talks between the President Sali Berisha and the opposition parties, agreement was reached to set up a coalition government and hold early parliamentary elections for a peaceful settlement of the disturbances.
   
   
2. Japan calls for all political forces in Albania to respect this agreement and hopes that the situation will be settled by constructive dialogues without further bloodshed.