Pijetro: hey, that was quite well a summary that could be written by me...I am really astonished..
you are completely right, the whole region is gonna end up in the EU...with the little difference, that very likely it will stay within Serbia while being supervised by the EU...and the K-albanians will stay what they are...a community, sticking to dreams and myths, misguided by bad leaders...uncapable of choosing other, better ones...
I've been reading everyone's postings on the Kosovo status negotiations and my feeling is that we all are way to focused on interpreting the past. We can debate it for months, and of course, will never come to an agreement. This does not suggest that the debate is useless. However, debating about the future which we all in a way can predict with a rather close accuracy. We like it or not, Kosovo is becoming independent. This year, next year, it is not relevant.
You might say I am an optimist, which I am, but I believe in a multiethnic Kosovo. We seem to forget that the relationship between Albanian and Serbs in Kosovo was even worse that it is now in the aftermath of the WWII, but we all wintnessed a gradual improvement of the interaction between the two communities in the '70s, and '80 until Milosevic instituted policies that curtailed Kosovo's autonomy and subsequently led to a deterioaration of the situation.
If an improvement of the interethnic situation was possible in the '80s, why not now? I believe it is possible. But it requires more committment and seriosness from all sides. Serbia must give up its claims over Kosovo. Kosovo Albanians must genuinly engage in improving the state of Serbs in Kosovo, enable the return of refugess, ensure freedom of movement, and provide other basic needs. In other words, implement Ahtisaari's package.
Dragan wrote
“there are over 100,000 albanians that live in Belgrade and nobody treats them any different than Serbs are treated”.
In the beautiful ski resort of Brezovica near Prishtina there is many Serbs who live there too. Many Hotels Restaurants and Bars there are run by Serbs, the clients are predominantly Albanian.
Serbian Albanians languages are both used here to order a meal or a drink or to get to the lifts.
Serbs and Albanians have lived together for centuries under different states and entities, Byzantine, Ottomans, SCS Kingdom, Yugoslavia.
There is no reason why we cannot live together under the New Kosova, with the government residing very close to home, Prishtina, not hundreds of Kilo Meters Tirana/Belgrade.
Albanians that I know ideally want a free independent Kosova with Serbs, not being pushed out of Kosova, but free, not isolated from the mainstream Kosovar society.
Sadly I don’t know Serbs from Kosova and I can only guess what they want, and what are their needs.
this is part of our problem. They are refusing us we are ignoring them. This needs to change. We, Albanians, need to reach out to the Kosova Serbs not just say it but mean it, and do something about it.
Here and there a magazine in the bus stations or health care centres published from the Government describing the way of living in the North Mitrovica and showing some talented Serbs there is not enough.
We need to get ride of our nationalist views, there are many Kosovar families that have lost to much in the dirty war of 1999, but we need to move on, and think of the people of Kosova as one, regardless of ethnicity.
Kosova independent free to all, will be a bridge between Serbia and Albania as well.
A destabilised Kosova within Serbia will always be problems between our two nations, which clearly would lead to more ethnic violence. We don’t want some think like that.
This is why we should seek a solution that wills stabiles the Balkans politically in long terms and bring to both of our nations a more certain future. If we were the victims of nationalism we should do everything possible to prevent that to happen on our future generations..
Arben wrote,
Mike,
Serbia is again losing the PR War. I'm surprised you have the gall to deny it.
What PR war? I never said anything about a PR war. Gall? What do you mean by gall? Because I don't completely agree with you? Well, I guess I'll have to accept your criticism, though I can't place your argumentative logic. I was trying to make a call for compromize between both sides, and I thought I was clear in my comment about how I want Serbs and Albanians to start working together without all the self-righetous posturing. However, if compromise and cooperation is interpreted by you as Serbia's attempt at a PR war, then I guess some people will just never learn.
The dilemma is that the democratic Serbian leadership has been willing to grant the highest form of autonomy that is possible and would guarantee all of the rights required of a modern inclusive society. However, the US (& UK it's poodle) have in 99 promised something that was not theirs to give and now are pushing for this to be set in stone - rather then admit their wrong doing. With such a stance the democratic ethnic-Albanian leadership of Kosovo & Metohija will not budge from the promised position - it is the US who have driven this and are the ones who are being belligerent. I question this foreign policy and believe that it will in it's conclusion cause greater uncertainty and at the same time will keep the pot boiling and will not allow economic development of the region.
You must ask yourself what is the ulterior motive behind such a narrow minded and retrograde policy being perused by the US in 2007 ? We are all pawns but some are more easily lead!!!
russia and china are growing fast economically while the US is in the reverse mode.
(branco covic, "
Wake up..without the US market, both Russia and China and the EU would fall flat on their faces and end up in endless wars with each other.
America contains its wars to a minimum..just to let all know who is in charge.
Jarina wrote:
"To Serbian Kosovar refugees all around the world you have to be prepared to return at home in new Independent Kosova where all Kosovar’s together live in peace"..
I consider myself an optimist Jarina, and perhaps you mean well, but please......These words can only insult peoples intelligence. I'm sure a multiethnic Kosovo is possible, but you can't invite with one hand, and have a meat cleaver behind your back with the other..
Convince Serbs otherwise, and maybe they'll be back. Let's face it. Kosovo/a can only be liberated once all it's neighbours don't feel suspicious of one another, and it's population is diverse in language and culture.
Goverments, institutions and Athisaari's proposals can't guarantee that. Only good neighbours can.
Afrim wrote:
"KEEP UP WITH DREAMS AND MYTHS, if they are not helping you Serbs, they are for sure helping us the albanians."
Honestly afrim....I don't know what dreams and myths you keep ramming down the posters' throats, but nobody's talking about riding a white horse to liberate an occupied Kosovo..Most of the Serbian and Albanian comments are level headed....Unlike yours. Grow up!!!
Shukri wrote:
"I just want to make sure you that every albanian from Kosova will chose death against returning again in serbia."
Please, as a friendly gesture, let me tell you that such words are merely rhetoric. This same rhetoric fed the Serbs during the Krajina crisis. In the long run, it helped nobody..And i don't want YOU to become the same victim of this rhetoric. It's anything BUT democratic, and only builds intolerance.
The whole darned place is under Brussels control pretty soon, and your concept of a state is gone. You've actually HAD this haven't you?
What does it taste like?
You seem to think it's an independent Kosovo/a, but let me tell you.....It seems to me like a democratic, decentralized, and tolerant Serbia..
Mike,
Serbia is again losing the PR War. I'm surprised you have the gall to deny it.
Negotiations are over. The meetings scheduled for the last two weeks in Febuary are Ahtisaari's way of letting the Serb make fools of themselves one last time, by not accepting Kosova's Independence (or any other word that mean the same).
Sorry but, that is the way the rest of the world see it playing out.
you´ve written it nicely down Mike, but it´s the K-Albanians who are deaf and blind towards a compromise. so, you know who you have to convince...
I share your view, that they should finally let this fanatism about independence behind...and help working on a better future instead of prolonging this mess...
Something that people should know is that there are over 100,000 albanians that live in Belgrade and nobody treats them any different than Serbs are treated. They have all the human rights as any other citizen of Serbia. As for the Serbs who are left in Kosovo, they can not even go to the grocery unless they get an armed escort by KFOR. This just goes to show how much the US cares about so called 'Human Rights'. So Lewis Mackenzie, our great Canadian General, was right when he said 'We bombed the wrong side'. It is very clear to anyone who is informed who here are the good guys, and who are the bad guys. Since 1999 the albanians have done nothing but more ethnic cleansing, while their brothers in Belgrade are treated well. Those are the facts.
Let me also stipulate that all sides on this issue - as well as all of us on this site - are all in favor of some solution to Kosovo. I don't think anyone taken seriously is in favor of denying rights to the Albanians. I'm totally in favor of granting them greater rights - human rights, economic rights, political rights - and would LOVE to see a prosperous and multi-ethnic Kosovo in 10 years totally surprising all the skeptics and nay-sayers on both sides of the current debate. I would LOVE for Serbs and Albanians to work together constructively in bettering the region and becoming as economically interdependent as Germans and French. But all of this will not, and cannot, be realized unless a solution to Kosovo can be reached and agreed upon by both sides NOW. Compromise, not ultimatum, is the word of the year, and the self-righteous posturing in both sides by elites and laymen will only further tensions and widen the gap between an already exploited and abused community.
Wisner is on a mission from the White House with specific instructions. Bush just rolled out his budget proposal for the coming year and, there appears to be very few dollars left for previous US ambitions, like A-Kosovars push for independence. I can just hear Bush's instructions to Wisner, "Do whatever it takes to get us out of that mess, and remember, we're on a budget. We're on a global mission against the "evil does of terror." Now git to Pristina, and fly coach.
"Serbia will be a very willing and positive participant in the talks"
Princip this is another fact for me that you are dreaming far of reality.
Kostunica even didn't met president Ahtisari on Friday. What kind of participation is this?
Pjetro.
We believe in friendship because we are normal people, and i am not just a prototip of this, its all the Kosovas people who believes on this because its a reality, pummeling Milloshevic doesn't change anything on this point. I appreciate your act of pummeling Milloshevic, but is too late. I just want to make sure you that every albanian from Kosova will chose death against returning again in serbia. I invite you to accept as for neighbour and to give peace a chance.
First and foremost, I condemn any comments in regards to violence. If either side engages in violence its going to seriously hurt their cause. Taras, comments like yours seriously undermine the Serbian position. Its because of statements like that we lost the propaganda war in the West and were portrayed as aggressors. I'm actually more willing to believe you’re an Albanian trying to make Serbs look bad, then a real Serb. If you're a real Serb, then I thank you for losing all our land in what was the former YU and ask you kindly to be quiet and not destroy any chance we have of retaining Kosovo with your violent and hate filled speech. The Albanians here are going to have a field day with your silly comments, go ahead and help them some more please.
"U.S. representative Wisner, conversely, said the UN plan was brilliant"
Yeah, in a way it is. It is completely one-sided and designed to lead to Independence regardless of whether Serbia accepts it or not. If Russia vetoes it, then the US can just step up and recognize Kosovo and claim it’s the only solution to the problem. This type of recognition is sure to be messy for both sides, and I highly recommend against such a short sighted unilateral act, which the US is so often fond of. Considering Croatia got its Independence recognized despite the objections by the UN that it didn't guarantee minority rights shows just how short sighted and destructive these types of unilateral actions can be. Unilateral recognition of countries in the Balkans never leads to good things.
If order for Serbia to accept the proposal, we must clearly define its meaning prior to any acceptance. The right to full access to our religious sites must be fully and clearly defined and explained how that would practically work. A situation similar to the Vatican and with control over the road system connecting our sites would be a good start.
Membership in International Organizations needs further clarification. Does this mean in reality a full UN seat? Does or does not this proposal offer independence? That needs to be clearly spelled out.
From what I've read of the proposal, it was left intentionally vague. Serbia should do its best to participate in the negotiation process and ask for much more clarity before signing onto such a document. Serbia needs to expose exactly what this document would do and make serious efforts to explain to the International Community what our position is.
If in fact the proposal does not offer Independence and we can get solid assurances that Independence is completely off the table, then we should really give it consideration.
However, if in fact the proposal is merely a stepping stone to Independence (which I think all sides believe at this point) then we need to do our best explain that to the International community and propose some alternative, such as a partition/land swap proposal.
The best gift Serbia can give the Kosovar Albanians is to refuse to carefully evaluate this proposal. We must engage seriously in the negotiation process. It appears we are gaining in support from a number of EU countries, we need to continue to focus on clarifying and explaining our positions in a rational manner. Serbia lost the PR war in the 90's, and that was the only important battlefront. We should not make the same sorts of mistakes again.
Shukri,
If there is a unilateral declaration it is at that point where the sui generis is lost so if there is recognistion by the US then I guess it is only fair that Russia can do the same for where ever it pleases.
The talks have not even begun - the Russians will want to ensure that all & that means all options are considered - this will take time and anyone obstruction this dialogue will be dropped.
Serbia will be a very willing and positive participant in the talks and will want to make sure that all options are researched fully - plan A-thisarri is a basis to work from but it is not the end of the talks.
Let's be clear. There will be no Serbian tanks rolling into Kosovo. There will be no Serbian army moving back into Kosovo. Such a move would put them in direct conflict with NATO and give the Albanian extremists all the reason they need to revolt. But at the same time, let's also be clear that Pristina will not unilaterally declare independence if they get impatient, or simply don't get their way. America (I hope) is not stupid enough to waste it's last remaining international credibility on the wishes of a shadow government in some poverty-stricken region of the Balkans. Such a move legitimizes unilateral secession and will immediately open the door to Republika Srpska, South Ossetia, and Abkhazia into following suit. Who cares if the US doesn't recognize those regions - all it takes is for one Great Power to do so, and suddenly the entire notion of state sovereignty is discredited.
It is so funny to see some people like Princip or Taras or some others who still live in the world of dreams. I Cant believe how good they make their lies, they definitely sound too good to be true my dear friends. Look at Kostunica, he was claiming that Russia will help in Kosova deal, but lately Kostunica has locked himself down and cant face the reality anymore.
You dreamers say that Russia is stronger now with Putin, but dont forget that it was Putin in power when the Russian troops left Kosova.
I am really amazed home these people still live in the world of deep dreams.
Well good luck with dreams, I understand that they sound better than the HARSH REALITY that the serbs are in.
Also, DO NOT FORGET THAT AMERICA IS THE ONLY SUPERPOWER IN THE WORLD.
To imagine how strong the russian army is... here is one example. While the russian soldiers were in Kosova, they used to sell the gas of their trucks because they had no money at all. So imagine what can russia do with some soldiers who sell the gas to the ordinary people.
I wish you to continue on with your sweet dreams.
I would also suggest to you guys to reach to Kostunia and have him dream the same dreams like you are dreaming so he might feel a bit better than he is now.
KEEP UP WITH DREAMS AND MYTHS, if they are not helping you Serbs, they are for sure helping us the albanians.
Many Thanks to B92 for making it possible for us to view dreams of people like Princip or Taras or some others.
1. No provision of 1244 gives you the right to intervene in Kosovo to "restore order". If you think otherwise please give me the specific provision you are refering to.
2. Wisner is not a low level envoy, he is doing precisely what he is supposed to do, which is represent US interests during the status talks.
3. The is nothing so far to indicate that the US has given up on independent Kosovo. In fact, the independence position is continuing to gather strength in Washington. Note: Read latests statements from the White House fully supporting the Ahtisari Plan.
4. Your threats are futile. But i incurage you too keep making them, they make our job a whole lot easier.
Is strange that some Serbian comments here (fortunately not all) make even more peaceful Albanian’s hostile to any kind of Serbian presence in Kosova.
To Serbian Kosovar refugees all around the world you have to be prepared to return at home in new Independent Kosova where all Kosovar’s together live in peace, is time to build a better future for our children.
the US in '99 is not the same US today so goes with Russia and China. aorund the world the approval rating of US has dropped considerably. its only in kosovo wherein US popular rating remains high. russia and china are growing fast economically while the US is in the reverse mode.
I can see that you will never come to a logical end, but anyway , you had the chance, so if you think to see Serbian tanks again in Kosova, then welcome.
Princip you are still with your well known "win-win" phrase, and you are make me to believe that this is the only one expression you know.
As for the precession if Russia and you think that Kosova is not "sui generis" so let start with Çeçenia giving them independence.
We believe in our Amerikan friends (Wisner) because we are witness of saving us from an ethnic cleansing in 1999 and we don't forget it, but i think you have some problems with your memory because you can't remember Rusia leaving you in the same year.
I'm amused that this Kuci person, whoever he is, considers the protection of minorities and World Heritage sites a "novelty".
It's even funnier that he's having these issues, just when America has to send a low level envoy to Pristina to instruct the Albanians to "sit" and be nice even though no independence is to be forthcoming.
There is no question as to what will happen next.
The Albanians in Kosovo-Metohjija will once again take up arms and attempt to take what is not theirs by force. Only this time, with Serbia's recent and strategic induction into NATOs partnership for peace, they may be surprised to see Serbian tanks retruning to restore order in Kosovo-Metohija - which they are legally entitled to do under Resolution 1244.
Not doubt the remnants of the KLA will mobilise their vast airforce to counteract this.
Will Wisner be able to explain the US no-win dead-end it is in with regards Russsia. Veto is a win-win for Russia. Clearly as Russia has said that it will not support a resolution that will impose a solution it is quite clear that it has all to gain on a veto. It will mean that the US will have egg on it's face to expalin the situation to it's partners the KLA. At the same time any unilateral declaration that could follow from a failed UN resolution would not be sui generis (unique) and as such US recognition of an illegal "kosova, Ilyria, Dardania or K-Albanina, etc.." would allow Russian recognition of any or all of it's few chosen self-determination states in Georgia, Moldova etc etc... As for the EU this would be a foerign policy nightmare given the various views of its 27 member states - hence no unified EU recognition.
I guess Putin is chuckling at the predicament the US is in.
Will Wisner be able to explain the US no-win dead-end it is in with regards Russsia. Veto is a win-win for Russia. Clearly as Russia has said that it will not support a resolution that will impose a solution it is quite clear that it has all to gain on a veto. It will mean that the US will have egg on it's face to expalin the situation to it's partners the KLA. At the same time any unilateral declaration that could follow from a failed UN resolution would not be sui generis (unique) and as such US recognition of an illegal "kosova, Ilyria, Dardania or K-Albanina, etc.." would allow Russian recognition of any or all of it's few chosen self-determination states in Georgia, Moldova etc etc... As for the EU this would be a foerign policy nightmare given the various views of its 27 member states - hence no unified EU recognition.
I guess Putin is chuckling at the predicament the US is in.
I'm amused that this Kuci person, whoever he is, considers the protection of minorities and World Heritage sites a "novelty".
It's even funnier that he's having these issues, just when America has to send a low level envoy to Pristina to instruct the Albanians to "sit" and be nice even though no independence is to be forthcoming.
There is no question as to what will happen next.
The Albanians in Kosovo-Metohjija will once again take up arms and attempt to take what is not theirs by force. Only this time, with Serbia's recent and strategic induction into NATOs partnership for peace, they may be surprised to see Serbian tanks retruning to restore order in Kosovo-Metohija - which they are legally entitled to do under Resolution 1244.
Not doubt the remnants of the KLA will mobilise their vast airforce to counteract this.
Princip you are still with your well known "win-win" phrase, and you are make me to believe that this is the only one expression you know.
As for the precession if Russia and you think that Kosova is not "sui generis" so let start with Çeçenia giving them independence.
We believe in our Amerikan friends (Wisner) because we are witness of saving us from an ethnic cleansing in 1999 and we don't forget it, but i think you have some problems with your memory because you can't remember Rusia leaving you in the same year.
I can see that you will never come to a logical end, but anyway , you had the chance, so if you think to see Serbian tanks again in Kosova, then welcome.
the US in '99 is not the same US today so goes with Russia and China. aorund the world the approval rating of US has dropped considerably. its only in kosovo wherein US popular rating remains high. russia and china are growing fast economically while the US is in the reverse mode.
1. No provision of 1244 gives you the right to intervene in Kosovo to "restore order". If you think otherwise please give me the specific provision you are refering to.
2. Wisner is not a low level envoy, he is doing precisely what he is supposed to do, which is represent US interests during the status talks.
3. The is nothing so far to indicate that the US has given up on independent Kosovo. In fact, the independence position is continuing to gather strength in Washington. Note: Read latests statements from the White House fully supporting the Ahtisari Plan.
4. Your threats are futile. But i incurage you too keep making them, they make our job a whole lot easier.
Is strange that some Serbian comments here (fortunately not all) make even more peaceful Albanian’s hostile to any kind of Serbian presence in Kosova.
To Serbian Kosovar refugees all around the world you have to be prepared to return at home in new Independent Kosova where all Kosovar’s together live in peace, is time to build a better future for our children.
It is so funny to see some people like Princip or Taras or some others who still live in the world of dreams. I Cant believe how good they make their lies, they definitely sound too good to be true my dear friends. Look at Kostunica, he was claiming that Russia will help in Kosova deal, but lately Kostunica has locked himself down and cant face the reality anymore.
You dreamers say that Russia is stronger now with Putin, but dont forget that it was Putin in power when the Russian troops left Kosova.
I am really amazed home these people still live in the world of deep dreams.
Well good luck with dreams, I understand that they sound better than the HARSH REALITY that the serbs are in.
Also, DO NOT FORGET THAT AMERICA IS THE ONLY SUPERPOWER IN THE WORLD.
To imagine how strong the russian army is... here is one example. While the russian soldiers were in Kosova, they used to sell the gas of their trucks because they had no money at all. So imagine what can russia do with some soldiers who sell the gas to the ordinary people.
I wish you to continue on with your sweet dreams.
I would also suggest to you guys to reach to Kostunia and have him dream the same dreams like you are dreaming so he might feel a bit better than he is now.
KEEP UP WITH DREAMS AND MYTHS, if they are not helping you Serbs, they are for sure helping us the albanians.
Many Thanks to B92 for making it possible for us to view dreams of people like Princip or Taras or some others.
Let's be clear. There will be no Serbian tanks rolling into Kosovo. There will be no Serbian army moving back into Kosovo. Such a move would put them in direct conflict with NATO and give the Albanian extremists all the reason they need to revolt. But at the same time, let's also be clear that Pristina will not unilaterally declare independence if they get impatient, or simply don't get their way. America (I hope) is not stupid enough to waste it's last remaining international credibility on the wishes of a shadow government in some poverty-stricken region of the Balkans. Such a move legitimizes unilateral secession and will immediately open the door to Republika Srpska, South Ossetia, and Abkhazia into following suit. Who cares if the US doesn't recognize those regions - all it takes is for one Great Power to do so, and suddenly the entire notion of state sovereignty is discredited.
Shukri,
If there is a unilateral declaration it is at that point where the sui generis is lost so if there is recognistion by the US then I guess it is only fair that Russia can do the same for where ever it pleases.
The talks have not even begun - the Russians will want to ensure that all & that means all options are considered - this will take time and anyone obstruction this dialogue will be dropped.
Serbia will be a very willing and positive participant in the talks and will want to make sure that all options are researched fully - plan A-thisarri is a basis to work from but it is not the end of the talks.
First and foremost, I condemn any comments in regards to violence. If either side engages in violence its going to seriously hurt their cause. Taras, comments like yours seriously undermine the Serbian position. Its because of statements like that we lost the propaganda war in the West and were portrayed as aggressors. I'm actually more willing to believe you’re an Albanian trying to make Serbs look bad, then a real Serb. If you're a real Serb, then I thank you for losing all our land in what was the former YU and ask you kindly to be quiet and not destroy any chance we have of retaining Kosovo with your violent and hate filled speech. The Albanians here are going to have a field day with your silly comments, go ahead and help them some more please.
"U.S. representative Wisner, conversely, said the UN plan was brilliant"
Yeah, in a way it is. It is completely one-sided and designed to lead to Independence regardless of whether Serbia accepts it or not. If Russia vetoes it, then the US can just step up and recognize Kosovo and claim it’s the only solution to the problem. This type of recognition is sure to be messy for both sides, and I highly recommend against such a short sighted unilateral act, which the US is so often fond of. Considering Croatia got its Independence recognized despite the objections by the UN that it didn't guarantee minority rights shows just how short sighted and destructive these types of unilateral actions can be. Unilateral recognition of countries in the Balkans never leads to good things.
If order for Serbia to accept the proposal, we must clearly define its meaning prior to any acceptance. The right to full access to our religious sites must be fully and clearly defined and explained how that would practically work. A situation similar to the Vatican and with control over the road system connecting our sites would be a good start.
Membership in International Organizations needs further clarification. Does this mean in reality a full UN seat? Does or does not this proposal offer independence? That needs to be clearly spelled out.
From what I've read of the proposal, it was left intentionally vague. Serbia should do its best to participate in the negotiation process and ask for much more clarity before signing onto such a document. Serbia needs to expose exactly what this document would do and make serious efforts to explain to the International Community what our position is.
If in fact the proposal does not offer Independence and we can get solid assurances that Independence is completely off the table, then we should really give it consideration.
However, if in fact the proposal is merely a stepping stone to Independence (which I think all sides believe at this point) then we need to do our best explain that to the International community and propose some alternative, such as a partition/land swap proposal.
The best gift Serbia can give the Kosovar Albanians is to refuse to carefully evaluate this proposal. We must engage seriously in the negotiation process. It appears we are gaining in support from a number of EU countries, we need to continue to focus on clarifying and explaining our positions in a rational manner. Serbia lost the PR war in the 90's, and that was the only important battlefront. We should not make the same sorts of mistakes again.
"Serbia will be a very willing and positive participant in the talks"
Princip this is another fact for me that you are dreaming far of reality.
Kostunica even didn't met president Ahtisari on Friday. What kind of participation is this?
Pjetro.
We believe in friendship because we are normal people, and i am not just a prototip of this, its all the Kosovas people who believes on this because its a reality, pummeling Milloshevic doesn't change anything on this point. I appreciate your act of pummeling Milloshevic, but is too late. I just want to make sure you that every albanian from Kosova will chose death against returning again in serbia. I invite you to accept as for neighbour and to give peace a chance.
Wisner is on a mission from the White House with specific instructions. Bush just rolled out his budget proposal for the coming year and, there appears to be very few dollars left for previous US ambitions, like A-Kosovars push for independence. I can just hear Bush's instructions to Wisner, "Do whatever it takes to get us out of that mess, and remember, we're on a budget. We're on a global mission against the "evil does of terror." Now git to Pristina, and fly coach.
Let me also stipulate that all sides on this issue - as well as all of us on this site - are all in favor of some solution to Kosovo. I don't think anyone taken seriously is in favor of denying rights to the Albanians. I'm totally in favor of granting them greater rights - human rights, economic rights, political rights - and would LOVE to see a prosperous and multi-ethnic Kosovo in 10 years totally surprising all the skeptics and nay-sayers on both sides of the current debate. I would LOVE for Serbs and Albanians to work together constructively in bettering the region and becoming as economically interdependent as Germans and French. But all of this will not, and cannot, be realized unless a solution to Kosovo can be reached and agreed upon by both sides NOW. Compromise, not ultimatum, is the word of the year, and the self-righteous posturing in both sides by elites and laymen will only further tensions and widen the gap between an already exploited and abused community.
Something that people should know is that there are over 100,000 albanians that live in Belgrade and nobody treats them any different than Serbs are treated. They have all the human rights as any other citizen of Serbia. As for the Serbs who are left in Kosovo, they can not even go to the grocery unless they get an armed escort by KFOR. This just goes to show how much the US cares about so called 'Human Rights'. So Lewis Mackenzie, our great Canadian General, was right when he said 'We bombed the wrong side'. It is very clear to anyone who is informed who here are the good guys, and who are the bad guys. Since 1999 the albanians have done nothing but more ethnic cleansing, while their brothers in Belgrade are treated well. Those are the facts.
you´ve written it nicely down Mike, but it´s the K-Albanians who are deaf and blind towards a compromise. so, you know who you have to convince...
I share your view, that they should finally let this fanatism about independence behind...and help working on a better future instead of prolonging this mess...
Mike,
Serbia is again losing the PR War. I'm surprised you have the gall to deny it.
Negotiations are over. The meetings scheduled for the last two weeks in Febuary are Ahtisaari's way of letting the Serb make fools of themselves one last time, by not accepting Kosova's Independence (or any other word that mean the same).
Sorry but, that is the way the rest of the world see it playing out.
Jarina wrote:
"To Serbian Kosovar refugees all around the world you have to be prepared to return at home in new Independent Kosova where all Kosovar’s together live in peace"..
I consider myself an optimist Jarina, and perhaps you mean well, but please......These words can only insult peoples intelligence. I'm sure a multiethnic Kosovo is possible, but you can't invite with one hand, and have a meat cleaver behind your back with the other..
Convince Serbs otherwise, and maybe they'll be back. Let's face it. Kosovo/a can only be liberated once all it's neighbours don't feel suspicious of one another, and it's population is diverse in language and culture.
Goverments, institutions and Athisaari's proposals can't guarantee that. Only good neighbours can.
Afrim wrote:
"KEEP UP WITH DREAMS AND MYTHS, if they are not helping you Serbs, they are for sure helping us the albanians."
Honestly afrim....I don't know what dreams and myths you keep ramming down the posters' throats, but nobody's talking about riding a white horse to liberate an occupied Kosovo..Most of the Serbian and Albanian comments are level headed....Unlike yours. Grow up!!!
Shukri wrote:
"I just want to make sure you that every albanian from Kosova will chose death against returning again in serbia."
Please, as a friendly gesture, let me tell you that such words are merely rhetoric. This same rhetoric fed the Serbs during the Krajina crisis. In the long run, it helped nobody..And i don't want YOU to become the same victim of this rhetoric. It's anything BUT democratic, and only builds intolerance.
The whole darned place is under Brussels control pretty soon, and your concept of a state is gone. You've actually HAD this haven't you?
What does it taste like?
You seem to think it's an independent Kosovo/a, but let me tell you.....It seems to me like a democratic, decentralized, and tolerant Serbia..
russia and china are growing fast economically while the US is in the reverse mode.
(branco covic, "
Wake up..without the US market, both Russia and China and the EU would fall flat on their faces and end up in endless wars with each other.
America contains its wars to a minimum..just to let all know who is in charge.
The dilemma is that the democratic Serbian leadership has been willing to grant the highest form of autonomy that is possible and would guarantee all of the rights required of a modern inclusive society. However, the US (& UK it's poodle) have in 99 promised something that was not theirs to give and now are pushing for this to be set in stone - rather then admit their wrong doing. With such a stance the democratic ethnic-Albanian leadership of Kosovo & Metohija will not budge from the promised position - it is the US who have driven this and are the ones who are being belligerent. I question this foreign policy and believe that it will in it's conclusion cause greater uncertainty and at the same time will keep the pot boiling and will not allow economic development of the region.
You must ask yourself what is the ulterior motive behind such a narrow minded and retrograde policy being perused by the US in 2007 ? We are all pawns but some are more easily lead!!!
Arben wrote,
Mike,
Serbia is again losing the PR War. I'm surprised you have the gall to deny it.
What PR war? I never said anything about a PR war. Gall? What do you mean by gall? Because I don't completely agree with you? Well, I guess I'll have to accept your criticism, though I can't place your argumentative logic. I was trying to make a call for compromize between both sides, and I thought I was clear in my comment about how I want Serbs and Albanians to start working together without all the self-righetous posturing. However, if compromise and cooperation is interpreted by you as Serbia's attempt at a PR war, then I guess some people will just never learn.
Dragan wrote
“there are over 100,000 albanians that live in Belgrade and nobody treats them any different than Serbs are treated”.
In the beautiful ski resort of Brezovica near Prishtina there is many Serbs who live there too. Many Hotels Restaurants and Bars there are run by Serbs, the clients are predominantly Albanian.
Serbian Albanians languages are both used here to order a meal or a drink or to get to the lifts.
Serbs and Albanians have lived together for centuries under different states and entities, Byzantine, Ottomans, SCS Kingdom, Yugoslavia.
There is no reason why we cannot live together under the New Kosova, with the government residing very close to home, Prishtina, not hundreds of Kilo Meters Tirana/Belgrade.
Albanians that I know ideally want a free independent Kosova with Serbs, not being pushed out of Kosova, but free, not isolated from the mainstream Kosovar society.
Sadly I don’t know Serbs from Kosova and I can only guess what they want, and what are their needs.
this is part of our problem. They are refusing us we are ignoring them. This needs to change. We, Albanians, need to reach out to the Kosova Serbs not just say it but mean it, and do something about it.
Here and there a magazine in the bus stations or health care centres published from the Government describing the way of living in the North Mitrovica and showing some talented Serbs there is not enough.
We need to get ride of our nationalist views, there are many Kosovar families that have lost to much in the dirty war of 1999, but we need to move on, and think of the people of Kosova as one, regardless of ethnicity.
Kosova independent free to all, will be a bridge between Serbia and Albania as well.
A destabilised Kosova within Serbia will always be problems between our two nations, which clearly would lead to more ethnic violence. We don’t want some think like that.
This is why we should seek a solution that wills stabiles the Balkans politically in long terms and bring to both of our nations a more certain future. If we were the victims of nationalism we should do everything possible to prevent that to happen on our future generations..
I've been reading everyone's postings on the Kosovo status negotiations and my feeling is that we all are way to focused on interpreting the past. We can debate it for months, and of course, will never come to an agreement. This does not suggest that the debate is useless. However, debating about the future which we all in a way can predict with a rather close accuracy. We like it or not, Kosovo is becoming independent. This year, next year, it is not relevant.
You might say I am an optimist, which I am, but I believe in a multiethnic Kosovo. We seem to forget that the relationship between Albanian and Serbs in Kosovo was even worse that it is now in the aftermath of the WWII, but we all wintnessed a gradual improvement of the interaction between the two communities in the '70s, and '80 until Milosevic instituted policies that curtailed Kosovo's autonomy and subsequently led to a deterioaration of the situation.
If an improvement of the interethnic situation was possible in the '80s, why not now? I believe it is possible. But it requires more committment and seriosness from all sides. Serbia must give up its claims over Kosovo. Kosovo Albanians must genuinly engage in improving the state of Serbs in Kosovo, enable the return of refugess, ensure freedom of movement, and provide other basic needs. In other words, implement Ahtisaari's package.
Pijetro: hey, that was quite well a summary that could be written by me...I am really astonished..
you are completely right, the whole region is gonna end up in the EU...with the little difference, that very likely it will stay within Serbia while being supervised by the EU...and the K-albanians will stay what they are...a community, sticking to dreams and myths, misguided by bad leaders...uncapable of choosing other, better ones...
Will Wisner be able to explain the US no-win dead-end it is in with regards Russsia. Veto is a win-win for Russia. Clearly as Russia has said that it will not support a resolution that will impose a solution it is quite clear that it has all to gain on a veto. It will mean that the US will have egg on it's face to expalin the situation to it's partners the KLA. At the same time any unilateral declaration that could follow from a failed UN resolution would not be sui generis (unique) and as such US recognition of an illegal "kosova, Ilyria, Dardania or K-Albanina, etc.." would allow Russian recognition of any or all of it's few chosen self-determination states in Georgia, Moldova etc etc... As for the EU this would be a foerign policy nightmare given the various views of its 27 member states - hence no unified EU recognition.
I guess Putin is chuckling at the predicament the US is in.
I'm amused that this Kuci person, whoever he is, considers the protection of minorities and World Heritage sites a "novelty".
It's even funnier that he's having these issues, just when America has to send a low level envoy to Pristina to instruct the Albanians to "sit" and be nice even though no independence is to be forthcoming.
There is no question as to what will happen next.
The Albanians in Kosovo-Metohjija will once again take up arms and attempt to take what is not theirs by force. Only this time, with Serbia's recent and strategic induction into NATOs partnership for peace, they may be surprised to see Serbian tanks retruning to restore order in Kosovo-Metohija - which they are legally entitled to do under Resolution 1244.
Not doubt the remnants of the KLA will mobilise their vast airforce to counteract this.
Princip you are still with your well known "win-win" phrase, and you are make me to believe that this is the only one expression you know.
As for the precession if Russia and you think that Kosova is not "sui generis" so let start with Çeçenia giving them independence.
We believe in our Amerikan friends (Wisner) because we are witness of saving us from an ethnic cleansing in 1999 and we don't forget it, but i think you have some problems with your memory because you can't remember Rusia leaving you in the same year.
I can see that you will never come to a logical end, but anyway , you had the chance, so if you think to see Serbian tanks again in Kosova, then welcome.
the US in '99 is not the same US today so goes with Russia and China. aorund the world the approval rating of US has dropped considerably. its only in kosovo wherein US popular rating remains high. russia and china are growing fast economically while the US is in the reverse mode.
1. No provision of 1244 gives you the right to intervene in Kosovo to "restore order". If you think otherwise please give me the specific provision you are refering to.
2. Wisner is not a low level envoy, he is doing precisely what he is supposed to do, which is represent US interests during the status talks.
3. The is nothing so far to indicate that the US has given up on independent Kosovo. In fact, the independence position is continuing to gather strength in Washington. Note: Read latests statements from the White House fully supporting the Ahtisari Plan.
4. Your threats are futile. But i incurage you too keep making them, they make our job a whole lot easier.
Is strange that some Serbian comments here (fortunately not all) make even more peaceful Albanian’s hostile to any kind of Serbian presence in Kosova.
To Serbian Kosovar refugees all around the world you have to be prepared to return at home in new Independent Kosova where all Kosovar’s together live in peace, is time to build a better future for our children.
It is so funny to see some people like Princip or Taras or some others who still live in the world of dreams. I Cant believe how good they make their lies, they definitely sound too good to be true my dear friends. Look at Kostunica, he was claiming that Russia will help in Kosova deal, but lately Kostunica has locked himself down and cant face the reality anymore.
You dreamers say that Russia is stronger now with Putin, but dont forget that it was Putin in power when the Russian troops left Kosova.
I am really amazed home these people still live in the world of deep dreams.
Well good luck with dreams, I understand that they sound better than the HARSH REALITY that the serbs are in.
Also, DO NOT FORGET THAT AMERICA IS THE ONLY SUPERPOWER IN THE WORLD.
To imagine how strong the russian army is... here is one example. While the russian soldiers were in Kosova, they used to sell the gas of their trucks because they had no money at all. So imagine what can russia do with some soldiers who sell the gas to the ordinary people.
I wish you to continue on with your sweet dreams.
I would also suggest to you guys to reach to Kostunia and have him dream the same dreams like you are dreaming so he might feel a bit better than he is now.
KEEP UP WITH DREAMS AND MYTHS, if they are not helping you Serbs, they are for sure helping us the albanians.
Many Thanks to B92 for making it possible for us to view dreams of people like Princip or Taras or some others.
Let's be clear. There will be no Serbian tanks rolling into Kosovo. There will be no Serbian army moving back into Kosovo. Such a move would put them in direct conflict with NATO and give the Albanian extremists all the reason they need to revolt. But at the same time, let's also be clear that Pristina will not unilaterally declare independence if they get impatient, or simply don't get their way. America (I hope) is not stupid enough to waste it's last remaining international credibility on the wishes of a shadow government in some poverty-stricken region of the Balkans. Such a move legitimizes unilateral secession and will immediately open the door to Republika Srpska, South Ossetia, and Abkhazia into following suit. Who cares if the US doesn't recognize those regions - all it takes is for one Great Power to do so, and suddenly the entire notion of state sovereignty is discredited.
Shukri,
If there is a unilateral declaration it is at that point where the sui generis is lost so if there is recognistion by the US then I guess it is only fair that Russia can do the same for where ever it pleases.
The talks have not even begun - the Russians will want to ensure that all & that means all options are considered - this will take time and anyone obstruction this dialogue will be dropped.
Serbia will be a very willing and positive participant in the talks and will want to make sure that all options are researched fully - plan A-thisarri is a basis to work from but it is not the end of the talks.
First and foremost, I condemn any comments in regards to violence. If either side engages in violence its going to seriously hurt their cause. Taras, comments like yours seriously undermine the Serbian position. Its because of statements like that we lost the propaganda war in the West and were portrayed as aggressors. I'm actually more willing to believe you’re an Albanian trying to make Serbs look bad, then a real Serb. If you're a real Serb, then I thank you for losing all our land in what was the former YU and ask you kindly to be quiet and not destroy any chance we have of retaining Kosovo with your violent and hate filled speech. The Albanians here are going to have a field day with your silly comments, go ahead and help them some more please.
"U.S. representative Wisner, conversely, said the UN plan was brilliant"
Yeah, in a way it is. It is completely one-sided and designed to lead to Independence regardless of whether Serbia accepts it or not. If Russia vetoes it, then the US can just step up and recognize Kosovo and claim it’s the only solution to the problem. This type of recognition is sure to be messy for both sides, and I highly recommend against such a short sighted unilateral act, which the US is so often fond of. Considering Croatia got its Independence recognized despite the objections by the UN that it didn't guarantee minority rights shows just how short sighted and destructive these types of unilateral actions can be. Unilateral recognition of countries in the Balkans never leads to good things.
If order for Serbia to accept the proposal, we must clearly define its meaning prior to any acceptance. The right to full access to our religious sites must be fully and clearly defined and explained how that would practically work. A situation similar to the Vatican and with control over the road system connecting our sites would be a good start.
Membership in International Organizations needs further clarification. Does this mean in reality a full UN seat? Does or does not this proposal offer independence? That needs to be clearly spelled out.
From what I've read of the proposal, it was left intentionally vague. Serbia should do its best to participate in the negotiation process and ask for much more clarity before signing onto such a document. Serbia needs to expose exactly what this document would do and make serious efforts to explain to the International Community what our position is.
If in fact the proposal does not offer Independence and we can get solid assurances that Independence is completely off the table, then we should really give it consideration.
However, if in fact the proposal is merely a stepping stone to Independence (which I think all sides believe at this point) then we need to do our best explain that to the International community and propose some alternative, such as a partition/land swap proposal.
The best gift Serbia can give the Kosovar Albanians is to refuse to carefully evaluate this proposal. We must engage seriously in the negotiation process. It appears we are gaining in support from a number of EU countries, we need to continue to focus on clarifying and explaining our positions in a rational manner. Serbia lost the PR war in the 90's, and that was the only important battlefront. We should not make the same sorts of mistakes again.
"Serbia will be a very willing and positive participant in the talks"
Princip this is another fact for me that you are dreaming far of reality.
Kostunica even didn't met president Ahtisari on Friday. What kind of participation is this?
Pjetro.
We believe in friendship because we are normal people, and i am not just a prototip of this, its all the Kosovas people who believes on this because its a reality, pummeling Milloshevic doesn't change anything on this point. I appreciate your act of pummeling Milloshevic, but is too late. I just want to make sure you that every albanian from Kosova will chose death against returning again in serbia. I invite you to accept as for neighbour and to give peace a chance.
Wisner is on a mission from the White House with specific instructions. Bush just rolled out his budget proposal for the coming year and, there appears to be very few dollars left for previous US ambitions, like A-Kosovars push for independence. I can just hear Bush's instructions to Wisner, "Do whatever it takes to get us out of that mess, and remember, we're on a budget. We're on a global mission against the "evil does of terror." Now git to Pristina, and fly coach.
Let me also stipulate that all sides on this issue - as well as all of us on this site - are all in favor of some solution to Kosovo. I don't think anyone taken seriously is in favor of denying rights to the Albanians. I'm totally in favor of granting them greater rights - human rights, economic rights, political rights - and would LOVE to see a prosperous and multi-ethnic Kosovo in 10 years totally surprising all the skeptics and nay-sayers on both sides of the current debate. I would LOVE for Serbs and Albanians to work together constructively in bettering the region and becoming as economically interdependent as Germans and French. But all of this will not, and cannot, be realized unless a solution to Kosovo can be reached and agreed upon by both sides NOW. Compromise, not ultimatum, is the word of the year, and the self-righteous posturing in both sides by elites and laymen will only further tensions and widen the gap between an already exploited and abused community.
Something that people should know is that there are over 100,000 albanians that live in Belgrade and nobody treats them any different than Serbs are treated. They have all the human rights as any other citizen of Serbia. As for the Serbs who are left in Kosovo, they can not even go to the grocery unless they get an armed escort by KFOR. This just goes to show how much the US cares about so called 'Human Rights'. So Lewis Mackenzie, our great Canadian General, was right when he said 'We bombed the wrong side'. It is very clear to anyone who is informed who here are the good guys, and who are the bad guys. Since 1999 the albanians have done nothing but more ethnic cleansing, while their brothers in Belgrade are treated well. Those are the facts.
you´ve written it nicely down Mike, but it´s the K-Albanians who are deaf and blind towards a compromise. so, you know who you have to convince...
I share your view, that they should finally let this fanatism about independence behind...and help working on a better future instead of prolonging this mess...
Mike,
Serbia is again losing the PR War. I'm surprised you have the gall to deny it.
Negotiations are over. The meetings scheduled for the last two weeks in Febuary are Ahtisaari's way of letting the Serb make fools of themselves one last time, by not accepting Kosova's Independence (or any other word that mean the same).
Sorry but, that is the way the rest of the world see it playing out.
Jarina wrote:
"To Serbian Kosovar refugees all around the world you have to be prepared to return at home in new Independent Kosova where all Kosovar’s together live in peace"..
I consider myself an optimist Jarina, and perhaps you mean well, but please......These words can only insult peoples intelligence. I'm sure a multiethnic Kosovo is possible, but you can't invite with one hand, and have a meat cleaver behind your back with the other..
Convince Serbs otherwise, and maybe they'll be back. Let's face it. Kosovo/a can only be liberated once all it's neighbours don't feel suspicious of one another, and it's population is diverse in language and culture.
Goverments, institutions and Athisaari's proposals can't guarantee that. Only good neighbours can.
Afrim wrote:
"KEEP UP WITH DREAMS AND MYTHS, if they are not helping you Serbs, they are for sure helping us the albanians."
Honestly afrim....I don't know what dreams and myths you keep ramming down the posters' throats, but nobody's talking about riding a white horse to liberate an occupied Kosovo..Most of the Serbian and Albanian comments are level headed....Unlike yours. Grow up!!!
Shukri wrote:
"I just want to make sure you that every albanian from Kosova will chose death against returning again in serbia."
Please, as a friendly gesture, let me tell you that such words are merely rhetoric. This same rhetoric fed the Serbs during the Krajina crisis. In the long run, it helped nobody..And i don't want YOU to become the same victim of this rhetoric. It's anything BUT democratic, and only builds intolerance.
The whole darned place is under Brussels control pretty soon, and your concept of a state is gone. You've actually HAD this haven't you?
What does it taste like?
You seem to think it's an independent Kosovo/a, but let me tell you.....It seems to me like a democratic, decentralized, and tolerant Serbia..
russia and china are growing fast economically while the US is in the reverse mode.
(branco covic, "
Wake up..without the US market, both Russia and China and the EU would fall flat on their faces and end up in endless wars with each other.
America contains its wars to a minimum..just to let all know who is in charge.
The dilemma is that the democratic Serbian leadership has been willing to grant the highest form of autonomy that is possible and would guarantee all of the rights required of a modern inclusive society. However, the US (& UK it's poodle) have in 99 promised something that was not theirs to give and now are pushing for this to be set in stone - rather then admit their wrong doing. With such a stance the democratic ethnic-Albanian leadership of Kosovo & Metohija will not budge from the promised position - it is the US who have driven this and are the ones who are being belligerent. I question this foreign policy and believe that it will in it's conclusion cause greater uncertainty and at the same time will keep the pot boiling and will not allow economic development of the region.
You must ask yourself what is the ulterior motive behind such a narrow minded and retrograde policy being perused by the US in 2007 ? We are all pawns but some are more easily lead!!!
Arben wrote,
Mike,
Serbia is again losing the PR War. I'm surprised you have the gall to deny it.
What PR war? I never said anything about a PR war. Gall? What do you mean by gall? Because I don't completely agree with you? Well, I guess I'll have to accept your criticism, though I can't place your argumentative logic. I was trying to make a call for compromize between both sides, and I thought I was clear in my comment about how I want Serbs and Albanians to start working together without all the self-righetous posturing. However, if compromise and cooperation is interpreted by you as Serbia's attempt at a PR war, then I guess some people will just never learn.
Dragan wrote
“there are over 100,000 albanians that live in Belgrade and nobody treats them any different than Serbs are treated”.
In the beautiful ski resort of Brezovica near Prishtina there is many Serbs who live there too. Many Hotels Restaurants and Bars there are run by Serbs, the clients are predominantly Albanian.
Serbian Albanians languages are both used here to order a meal or a drink or to get to the lifts.
Serbs and Albanians have lived together for centuries under different states and entities, Byzantine, Ottomans, SCS Kingdom, Yugoslavia.
There is no reason why we cannot live together under the New Kosova, with the government residing very close to home, Prishtina, not hundreds of Kilo Meters Tirana/Belgrade.
Albanians that I know ideally want a free independent Kosova with Serbs, not being pushed out of Kosova, but free, not isolated from the mainstream Kosovar society.
Sadly I don’t know Serbs from Kosova and I can only guess what they want, and what are their needs.
this is part of our problem. They are refusing us we are ignoring them. This needs to change. We, Albanians, need to reach out to the Kosova Serbs not just say it but mean it, and do something about it.
Here and there a magazine in the bus stations or health care centres published from the Government describing the way of living in the North Mitrovica and showing some talented Serbs there is not enough.
We need to get ride of our nationalist views, there are many Kosovar families that have lost to much in the dirty war of 1999, but we need to move on, and think of the people of Kosova as one, regardless of ethnicity.
Kosova independent free to all, will be a bridge between Serbia and Albania as well.
A destabilised Kosova within Serbia will always be problems between our two nations, which clearly would lead to more ethnic violence. We don’t want some think like that.
This is why we should seek a solution that wills stabiles the Balkans politically in long terms and bring to both of our nations a more certain future. If we were the victims of nationalism we should do everything possible to prevent that to happen on our future generations..
I've been reading everyone's postings on the Kosovo status negotiations and my feeling is that we all are way to focused on interpreting the past. We can debate it for months, and of course, will never come to an agreement. This does not suggest that the debate is useless. However, debating about the future which we all in a way can predict with a rather close accuracy. We like it or not, Kosovo is becoming independent. This year, next year, it is not relevant.
You might say I am an optimist, which I am, but I believe in a multiethnic Kosovo. We seem to forget that the relationship between Albanian and Serbs in Kosovo was even worse that it is now in the aftermath of the WWII, but we all wintnessed a gradual improvement of the interaction between the two communities in the '70s, and '80 until Milosevic instituted policies that curtailed Kosovo's autonomy and subsequently led to a deterioaration of the situation.
If an improvement of the interethnic situation was possible in the '80s, why not now? I believe it is possible. But it requires more committment and seriosness from all sides. Serbia must give up its claims over Kosovo. Kosovo Albanians must genuinly engage in improving the state of Serbs in Kosovo, enable the return of refugess, ensure freedom of movement, and provide other basic needs. In other words, implement Ahtisaari's package.
Pijetro: hey, that was quite well a summary that could be written by me...I am really astonished..
you are completely right, the whole region is gonna end up in the EU...with the little difference, that very likely it will stay within Serbia while being supervised by the EU...and the K-albanians will stay what they are...a community, sticking to dreams and myths, misguided by bad leaders...uncapable of choosing other, better ones...
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