Albanian opposition supporters stage protest demanding early elections

TIRANA, March 5 (Xinhua) -- Thousands of Albanian opposition supporters gathered on Tuesday in front of the Albanian Parliament, demanding the socialist government's resignation and early elections.

Protestors led by lawmakers of the main opposition Democratic Party surrounded the Parliament building while the socialist lawmakers were holding a plenary session.

The Parliament building in capital Tirana was protected by hundreds of police officers and barbed wire.

The protestors accused the socialist government of corruption and crime links. The protestors burned tires but the police did not intervene.

Last month, the lawmakers of the joined opposition parties have resigned from their posts.

The leader of the Democratic Party Lulzim Basha said in his speech during the protest that this is a battle for the European Albania.

"Only free elections can save Albania," said Basha.

Albanian opposition has refused the calls from the European Union and international organizations to enter talks with the government and end the political crisis.

Earlier Prime Minister Edi Rama said he is ready to reach a dialogue with the opposition, but does not intend to resign.

The Socialists hold 74 seats in the 140-seat Parliament.

In June this year Albania hopes to launch membership negotiations with the European Union.