“Over the past 12 years, Albania has taken a path where two things are undeniable. First, the increasing emigration of Albanians, more than ever before. Second, more concerning aspect of this path is the deepening impoverishment of the Albanian population. The pensions and wages, which are entirely inadequate to make ends meet are further proof of poverty,” he said.

The Democratic Party chairman emphasized that today an average pensioner receives 165-170 euros, which, according to him, is completely insufficient to cover the cost of living.

“Not to mention those who receive the minimum pension of 120 euros. 57% of pensioners receive partial pensions. This entire situation is attributed to corruption, embezzlement, misuse, and the misappropriation of your tax money by government officials,” he stated.

“We would not be here before you if we were not 100% certain that, with an iron fist and zero tolerance, we will fight the theft and corruption of government officials, as well as organized crime, which has become inseparable with the government,” declared Berisha.

“We have gone a long way in fighting corruption. There is no denying that corruption existed. But let me tell you, the practices we introduced in the fight against corruption were the most transparent, and what remains from that time is the only thing that truly matters. Business registration for just 1 euro. It used to cost 4,000 euros and take a month. As for licenses, they were reinstated, but we reduced their number from 200 to 60. We implemented e-Albania, the Digital Cadastre, and established full transparency in the State Treasury’s spending,” Berisha recalled.

/j.p/sm/