"Serbia makes irrational threats”

Yes, and Serbia was an isolated island during Hitler's Europe. Not much has changed. Once again Serbia is standing for what is right while others are willing to break the law to get what they want. I think it is very similar. Serbia is actually standing up for principle.

Actually all he is saying is that Serbia should not isolate itself over the Kosovo issue. Of course it would be better if this were the case, but then the reality is that if Serbia loses Kosovo and as a result her people overwhelmingly do not wish to join the EU, then it will have a bearing.

Besides which it is good to see free speech and different ideas coming from Serbian politics and the news sources. I will wait to hear a Kosovo Albanian politician saying for example that he is in favour of partition rather than independence and see how respectfully his ideas are treated in Kosovo. Would he be congratulated for free thought? Perhaps the space used for hitlists in one particular newspaper can be given to his opinion column instead.

Someone said here recently that there are various levels of EU membership and I agree with this. There are the 'main countries' and then the rest.

It really is more important for the EU if Serbia joins than the other way round, both in terms if trade and strategically because of Serbia's position. So I wouldn't underplay their motivation for keeping relations good.

Switzerland is surrounded by EU countries as well, so what. Smartest countries didn't rush to join.

I hate to disappoint all the albanian posters on here who have fallen in love with Svilanovic, but he is not the Serbian prime minister. We have much better leadership than that right now. Thanks for your opinion Mr. Svilanovic, but I think Mr. Kostunica knows what he is doing, as has been proven. He is a brilliant politician and diplomat. That is why he is where he is, and you are where you are.

Svilanović, maybe right up to a point but then surely it is also irrational that the US and a 'few' European states that insist Serbia to give up on it's sovereignity!

In any case we are in 2007 and EU & NATO membership are no longer the only way forward - so much has changed since the 90's - that I do agree with! Maybe a better signal from Serbia would be giving up on NATO instead and pursue membership of SCO instead!

Beyond that EU membership itself is not the panacea that others make out - Serbia needs to do what is in Serbia's interest - moving along with the SAA talks should be for the right reasons and Serbia can lear from the current entrants - what is it specifically that they have done that has been beneficial and what has been negative - memebership alone does not solve all problems and can create new ones. For instance Slovakia has excelled since accession but Hungary has gone backwards in comparison - yet prior to the membership Hugary was outperforming Slovakia hands down. Serbia needs to look at Romania and Bulgaria closely now that they are members and learn from them. Trade is one of the keys and it is not just membership of a club!

By the way where was Svilanović when Swedens Bildt said the same practically the same last Nov.? http://www.b92.net/eng/insight/tvshows.php?yyyy=2006&mm=11&nav_id=38033

Are we to assume then that Svilanović would suggest Bildt is irrational too?

Kojen was after all just turning what has been said by the EU on it's head and I would tend to believe that his statement that Serbia "“has no place among those who actively support dismemberment of its territory.”" is more rational!

He is absolutely right.
Gives me hope to hear Mr. Svilanovic say true and realistic statement.
I have been saying all along that Serbia belongs in EU and not Russia.
Who is Koshtunica bluffing.
He is Milosevic's baby.
Serbian people deserve a better leader.
**PEACE**

Finally a rational voice!

Anthony: I apologised for the misunderstanding and that is all. I think you are reading too much in it.
Considering you hold a BA as you proudly informed us, your Enmglish seems to be very poor. Where in the world did you read that I suggested you prescribe to Grasanin's views. I said IF YOU READ THE NACERTANIJE...and that my dear Anthony can in no way be interpreted as "Anthony prescribes to Garasanin's views".
And you do have a very short sighted view of history too. The fact that it was writen in 1850 does not make the Nacertanije irrelevant. Most of the border problems the Balkans are dealing with now stem from those years and the way our politicians are trying to deal with them is also reminiscent of those times and that is especially true in the case of Serbia and Milosevic. The Nacertanije was a blueprint as you rightly point out and that's what blueprints are for: for other people to build on them. Garasanin's ideas have been modified to take into account a new reality but they are alive and well. Don't forget that the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes and the interbellum Yugoslavia, were very much built upon those ideas.
And I am aware of the bias of Albanian history books on the events that led to the occupation of Kosovo in 1912-13 and the events that followed. That is why I have made a point of reading kooks from a variety of sources including Serb ones which on the whole I must say are just as biased. I suggest you do the same and if you do you might as well skip through a book or two on the Conference of Ambassadors. It might prove illuminating.
And I am aware of Garasanin's role in organizing the rebellion you speak off. There have been others rebellions too with the help of the Serbs and Montenegrins and other people like Garasanin too. But that is not the point I was making. Go and find a few Serb history book where they explain what the aim behind that help was and then you just might understand what I was saying. If you are interested you might also have a look at the Carnegie Report. It might help gain a better understanding of the "liberation" of Kosovo.

Common Kate Princip Jovan and Petrovich, Tell this person that he is worthless and he is lying and he dosnt know what hes talking about. Right now he is saying in "case" Kosovo gets independence! Soon the case will become bigger, than we will open the Case and take our independence! And to Mr petrovich about yesterday, the figures i gave are easily found with the keyword you gave me! If Albanians were such nazzi collaborators maybe Tirana would be among them too, but my dear friend you are bending a square history to fit into a triangle!

I am sorry b92 that i had to reply here but i thought it was a subject to be read! As for your late reporting last night on the burned house, better late than never. Continue your productive jobs!

Yes Mr. Svilanovic, that’s right. I really hope that Serbia will not remain a country that destabilizes entire region, because of whom will suffer entire Balkans!
Some Serbian politicians can still fool themselves and their people that they do not need approach to Euro-Atlantic organizations and the west, but take as example “Zastava” in Kragujevac, that is a millstone for Serbian budget for over 5 years, what would happen if “General Motors” withdraws from the plans? That’s only one example, as there are hundreds of similar ones that could get out the region from collapse!

If Serbia keep going with these kind of threats, then I am sure it is going to isolated from the rest of the world just like it was Albanian during the Hoxha's regime.
Almost all the countires that are in Serbia's border are in NATO, EU or in the way to do so.

This gentleman seems to me that he knows what's going to happen if Serbia keep doing what is doing.
It is so simple for Serbia this time I think. Let Kosovo go and you'll be into EU/NATO and have a great income of that; OR in the other hand, keep threatening and keep refusing to compromise about Kosovo and you'll be an isolated country form the rest of the world, which means POOR.

Who is this guy... and why is he not your President/Priminister...

too sorry he is to democratic for the serb national who believe in blackmail and manipulation as the statement to threaten the west and the Kosovars.

It is really pity for Serbian people to suffer as a result of their stubborn politicians that like theirs seats so much. They are prepared to risk life’s(of course someone else’s) for their seats. This makes the Kosovo team coordinator immature or he is just getting nervous.
Maybe it is better if you ask people of Serbia what do they think, or maybe they have told not long ago.

If Kosova and Serbia can join the EU as separate countries that would be better otherwise we can live as it is.

EU is the way FFW for all of us. Let us forget these politicians hat are willing to sell our solves to Russia. I dont like LADA life style thanks

Princip: You are sounding a bit like the fox and the grapes there on the EU!
No one ever said that the European Union was a panacaea, but the prospect of EU membership does provide the motivation for reform that most of our countries need. You know that the democratic tradition is not strong in our area of the world - neither is the economy - and if we had not had the EU "carrot" as well as EU support many countries - especially in the so-called Western Balkans would have probably gone the way the Central Asiatic Republics are going. Wasn't that what Milosevic tried to do? And wasn't the Serbian revolution to a great extent motivated by a wish to catch up to the rest of Europe not just economically but also politically?
It would be very short sighted for Serbia to turn its back on the EU because of Kosovo. If such a move could guarantee that Serbia would hold on to Kosovo I might even understand it, but the problem is that it seems you are gonna lose both. Your only partner in Europe (in the geographical sense)would be Russia and given the increasing hostility between the West and Russia it would not be a very smart choice. And in any case Russia is still a bit of a paper tiger.
As an Albanian if I think of it in Realpolitiek terms it would be much better for us if you did renounce NATO, the EU and the West generally to ally yourselves with Russia. That would simply make the West support us even more than they are already doing. But it would not be a good choice on your part.
Your government's stance on Kosovo, their concentration on it to the exlusion of all else reminds me of something the Croats used to say about Tudjman's approach to domestic politics: If you have a tooth ache wear a pair of shoes that hurt!

Kate, Every day you say disturbing things and try to showcase them as facts. eg:"It really is more important for the EU if Serbia joins than the other way round, both in terms if trade and strategically because of Serbia's position"
Number one Vojvodina will want to go to EU, with or with out Serbia, all the minority's will want EU. The foreign investors would invest more and would have a higher security in case Serbia would be part of the EU. I am sure as you in the UK cant live a happy life with out Serbia being part of the EU!
Secondly great strategic positioning, tough call again, landlocked, Not connected to any strategic land such as borders with key non EU interests! Montenegro will be EU too, so in case Serbia down choose the EU it will be a blank corridor.
As for Switzerland. That is really a special case with 3 cantons who already have a country!

Kate,
we're talking about the comments made by Mr. Svilanovic on the issue of Serbia looking forward even in the event of KOSOVO INDEPENDENCE. He made the statement. We think he is right. Agreeable.
For you to say about a Kosovo politician to agree with the partition of Kosovo in case it becomes INDEPENDENT, just does NOT ADD UP!!!
You are talking about apples and oranges here.
Where do you get this angle from? WISHFULL THINKING?

**PEACE**

Yesterday their was a comment from the editor regarding reasons for posts placed by Matthew not being added but, here we are with direct attacks at an indivuals viewpoint being posted and adding nothing to the debate;

The guy is just being rational,that's all. Kate you're such a Serbian Jingoist.
(Noel, UK, 10. August 2007 15:06)

Does anyone else think something is wrong?

I know I get a bit heated too but usually it is about the article content and then continues with a counter from the opposing viewpoint just as exemplified by Teni with the comment "You are sounding a bit like the fox and the grapes there on the EU! "

- this is fine because he then carries on with some substance about the whole article - irresepctive of me agreeing with him!

However, Noel has no substance & is clearly using it as an opportunity to have a personal dig at Kate - nothing more nothing less.

Come on editors this is beyond a joke and I guess this won't be posted without editing which I have noticed too! Also if I am getting personal then your free to let me know!

So according to Svilanovic Serbia will be isolated by the rest of the world unless it joins the EU. Talk about scare tactics! Is the EU the WHOLE WORLD? Mr. Svilanovic, who is doing the "blackmailing" now? Serbia will surly not be isolated and would (does)have trading partners with booming economies and large markets for Serbian goods. On top of that, Serbia would still be able to trade with the EU, you don't have to be in the club to trade with it! Mr. Svilanovic, who is paying you to say such nonsense? This is a threat, give up your sovereignty or face the consequences, and this coming from a Serb.

it was to be expected that the Albanians here would jump on the train and comment this article
first of all, listen to Princips words, he´s put it right. ( althoug it is really nerving to repeat something you obviously refuse to understand )
UNSC 1244 says it all. fullstop.

and has anyone of you smart guys spent only a second of thinking why Mr.Svilanović doesn´t play an important role in the Kosovo-issue?

Serbia will be part of the EU anyway...there´s not even a doubt that Serbia will rise again as the economic center of the region.

Of course, Serbia should not try to join the EU or NATO. Serbia is a great country of great people. You can be even greater without Kosova and Vojvodina. If in doubt, you can always join a union with Belarus and Russia.

It is strange how most Serb politicians start speaking rationally once they leave the government.
And Dragan I don't think Kostunica is brilliant at anything, but even if he were brilliant people are sometimes blinded by their brilliance.
I actually think is the typical "tough guy" authoritarian type politician like many others in the Balkans who values his political career far more than Kosovo or your future for that matter. As long as he stays in power the pox on the average Serb who has trouble making ends meet.

Beni,

I and others must have been through this countless times but the fact remains and hence all the discussion aswell as the UN SC that, UN SC resolution 1244 clearly and unequivocally RE-Affirms Serbia's sovereignity over it's southern province (it states FR Yugoslavia - Serbia being the successor state to FR Yugoslavia and please don't get confused with SFR Yugoslavia).

Beni, why else do you think these talks are still on going? They need Serbia's consent to make it legal and all other avenues will lead to at best a simple Status quo partition but no legitamcy and at worst destructive war. I would rather the jaw-jaw continued then to force events and equally found a compromise that respects international law!

python,

Switzerland, you are comparing it with Serbia?
Switzerland is a bank to the world, a neutral country.
Switzerland is also neutral in politics.
What did I do to deserve this?
God knows.

**PEACE**
(lazer, 10. August 2007 13:44)

You honestely believe that it would be neutral in politics if someone were to... say... try and take away 15% of its territory?

Sovereignty is Resolution 1244. NOTHING ELSE!

Your myths or our history matter to no one. All that matters is that 1 paper with the signatures because other countries are relying on the exact same law.

OK Dino. What I have been saying in many of my comments is the reverse of what you are saying. It would be "suicide" to tare apart a sovereign, internationally recognized country in order to join the EU club! Dino, name one other country that had to give up it's sovereignty/land/change borders for EU membership. If the EU does not recognize Serbia as a sovereign, independent state then it (Serbia) is just an EU colony and that is SUICIDE! I am not totally against EU membership but as it now stands the price is too high and I believe that Serbia would do just fine without being in a club which asks you to cut off your arm to join, especially since no other country had to adhere to this precondition.

Svilanovic says >> Serbia will be isolated by the rest of the world unless it joins the EU.

The EU is a club of 27 nations some of whom Serbia does not even trade with! They are hardly the whole world WOW what arrogant! The EU has become as arrogant as the Americans! The World is 197 Nations not 27 plus America.

Cvele, are you going to revoke your Serbian citizenship (wherever you live) if Kosovo wins independence in order to punish the country for "letting go" of Kosovo?
As dino says there is nothing that Serbia could do.
(miri, 10. August 2007 19:39)

To Miri - although your comment is directed at Cvele - I want to pose a question to you -

Are you giving up your quest for the greater albania should this fantasy become a reality? No need to elaborate as you know precisely what is being referred to here?

Kate: the EU is interested in having Serbia as a member, but I think that Serbia has far more to gain from the EU than the EU from Serbia.
I have read several comments where people compare Serbia to Switzerland. It is a far fetched comparison to say the least. Switzerland is not an EU member but it has maintained excellent relations with all the neighbouring countries; it has no territorial claims on them and neither do they have any territorial claims on Switzerland. And then the circumstances are completely different. Switzerland is situated between the economic giants of the EU and has thus been able to profit. Serbia on the other hand is situated in the poorest region of Europe and most neighbouring countries are not really keen in seeing Serbia as their Switzerland. I think that Serbia isolated in this way might come to resemble Albania in Communist times or Byelorussia, but hardly Switzerland.
And Kate there are a lot of discussions on the possibility of partitioning Kosovo in the Albanian press. MOst people however do not agree with such a move and neither has Serbia asked for it. The only situation on which most commentators or politicians agree that Kosovo might be partitioned is if there were an exchange of territory: North of Kosovo for Preshevo.
Butif Serbia were to ask for partition I wonder what that would say of Serbia's claim that Kosovo is its historical heartland?

“We can say what we want, but Serbia is surrounded by countries in the EU and NATO, so we do not have any other politicies but the ones that lead us towards Euro-Atlantic integrations,” Svilanović said."

In other words, Svilanovic is afraid of encirclement.
But obviously Geography isn't his forte.

Currently only 3 of Serbia's of 8 neighbours are in Nato and EU. And I frankly don't think countries like Bosnia and Albania are going to be admitted anytime soon into EU if ever at all.

By the way Switzerland is completely surrounded by EU and Nato countries. Are the Swiss isolated and poor? A substantial part of their trade is definitely outside Europe. So should Serbia necessarily be poor and isolated, especially if she diversifies her trade beyond Europe?

The EU and Nato actually wants Serbia inside them because only Serbia now stands in the way of the entire Danube and its basin becoming an entirely EU-Nato's strategic territory. Serbia is the last piece of this jigzaw that they have not yet managed to piece in.

Here, its on B92.
read:
http://www.b92.net/eng/news/in_focus.php?id=96&start=0&nav_id=42927

**PEACE**

python,

Switzerland, you are comparing it with Serbia?
Switzerland is a bank to the world, a neutral country.
Switzerland is also neutral in politics.
What did I do to deserve this?
God knows.

**PEACE**

bganon; I didn't know him and I don't know half of the Kosovar politician, he is a sensible and smart politicians and I'm sure if you had this kind of attitude/policy in the late 80's then you would not have ended up where you are now when no one else apart from Russia with its own interest trust you serb government think about it kate principt.

Well of course that EU needs more Serbia than Serbia needs EU.
What can Serbia offer to EU? Let me see hmm …
Well me dear friends, say whatever you like and look for examples around for as much as you want the day will come that you will regret any posting against Serbia joining EU same as the people that fought for great Serbia that regret every single day of war. It is really fortunate that people that oppose Serbia joining EU are minority less than 30%, number that is steadily degrease.
People of Serbia have learned a lesson , B92 in Serbian can tell how happy are peolple of Serbia for a statement like that. I suggest to some like, kate, princip etc read some of the posting there and think again.
Nobody in Serbia cares about Kosova except housewife’s, pensioners and some here.

Kosova status would be nice if is defined now but if not it is fine as it is anyway. Independence is the final solution we all know. Partition is the worst ever solution for Balkans, why, you all know what would happen

To Princip: Svilanović, maybe right up to a point but then surely it is also irrational that the US and a 'few' European states that insist Serbia to give up on it's sovereignity!

For what kind of sovereignity you taling about? Serbia never had sovereignity over Kosova. Kosova was occupied by Serbia helped by Russia and som other countries hundred years ago. Same thing you did that time as now. You were against Albanian state because you were not enough with half of albanian territory occupied by you.

Miri, Dino
The benefit? Who cares! It will hurt them and us. But it wont be the end of the world. But there is really no need to even think about this... Kosovo isnt and wont be independent. God bless all Ruskies.

I don’t know why my previous comment was not published, but anyway, I’ll try again:

Svilanovic seems to be a reasonable guy! A truly Serb nationalist and patriot could not think differently than him! Only people who do not like to see Serbia and entire region prospering could advocate further isolation and disputes with the west countries. Just remember what did you get during ‘90 ties.
Serbia is slowly moving toward integration, step by step, but hardliners are pushing it back by two steps at once.
Take as an example, “Zastava” factory, what would happen if “General Motors” withdraws its plan to start producing vehicles there. “Zastava” is at the moment only a heavy millstone for the budget, and it is not the only one! Unfortunately, the BG politics is not harming only Serbia, but entire region. Kosovar politics have the very same effect too.
So, my conclusion in all this is, let head towards the prosperity, as two good neighbors, leaving old fashioned politics, looking forward, in order to at least ensure our children have a better future!

Nehat, Svilanovic used to be foreign minister. And he is also from Kosovo - you should know that!

Whilst I might not agree with everything Svilanovic says I find his input constructive rather than destructive which is the tone Simic and Kojen set in the last day or so.

I have to say that it is a shame that Kosovo Albanians dont have a similar leader willing to challenge or to engage with majority (Kosovo Albanian) thinking.

Predictor re Zastava you might want to keep reading. Peugeot officials are currently visiting Zastava in Kragujevac with a view to buying the company. So the real story is not whether GM or Fiat for that matter would pull out of deals with Zastava, but whether Zastava will be succesfully sold securing its medium term future.

The Serbian government has poured a lot of money into Zastava for sure but if it succeeds in its aim to sell to a major car company - securing the jobs of those working there and its future, it will be money well worth spent.

Let the Serb people decide on whether or not to giveup Kosovo,and without any partition.

Take a binding vote to decide and let the chips fall as they may. That way no Serb politician will be killed for suggesting such an "unpatriotic" idea!
No need to mention EU MEMBERSHIP being associated with this vote, the Serb people are smart enough to read between the lines.

Go for it, what have you to lose!!!

Easy on Kate Noel. A jingoist or two makes for a more lively discussion.

It seems like Serbs are now very happy with 1244. If so, then why all the complains about the situation in Kosova?
(Adrian Gashi, 10. August 2007 20:40)

Adrian, could you please explain what at all you wanted to say?
it doesn´t make sense, actually.

just to inform you, UNSC reaffirmes the territorial integrity of the Republic of Serbia.

on the other hand, there is, sad but true, a criminal bunch , not all of course, but some Albanians, burning down churches, beating up old women and so on.

those two things are related? it would be interesting to read your explanation!

by the way: it´s Kosovo with an o at the end! Kosova is a tribe in central Africa! =)

The statement from Svilanovic is simple. Kosovo problem is a matter of survival while EU membership could become base for economical prosperity. First of all Serbs have to establish full control over Kosovo as a matter of prime national interest, and later to carefully examine the potential benefits in relation to EU membership. In the current situation EU memberships is not good idea, taking in consideration EU approach to Kosovo problem.
EU membership acceptance by Serbia is important for EU existence. EU creators never stated it. They just hoped that Serbia would never fully realise that fact and use in negotiation in regards to Kosovo future status.
To be respected by others Serbia has to respect itself. The comments that supports Serbian memberships within EU and NATO by any price have been posted by readers that do not respect itself at the first place or by an enemies of Serbia.

Slowly but syraly serbia politicians are coming to gripps with reality and I like to see proper serbia holdinga referndum and in the ballot should be two questions, as follows: 1. Should serbia keep Kosova ta ab\ny cost even if it means war/ 2. Should serbia become e member of EU and join democratic world and not to go back to stone ages?
I think everybody with excpetion of houswifes and pesnioner including the likes of Koshutinca will vote # 2.

Zoran, Cvele;

Can one of you please explain what would be the benefit of Serbia to severe the integration with EU in case Kosovo becomes independent?
Sure, your pride will be hurt but that's not what we are talking about here.

What you are advocating here is for Serbia to commit suicide for something that it is irreversible and it cannot change. I am an albanian and still wish for Serbia to be integrated in EU for the good of the whole region. I am really puzzled by your position. In the most likely scenario that Kosovo becomes independent there is nothing that Serbia can to do reverse that decision. Your nationalistic cries are really out of context here because you will be causing much damage to your own people!!

Cvele, are you going to revoke your Serbian citizenship (wherever you live) if Kosovo wins independence in order to punish the country for "letting go" of Kosovo?
As dino says there is nothing that Serbia could do.

It seems like Serbs are now very happy with 1244. If so, then why all the complains about the situation in Kosova?

Dino, after the "fact" or the big IF. Would you Dino make a partnership with someone who does not even acknowledge your most basic of rights, in this case inviolable borders/recognition of sovereignty?

The EU was formed to eventually eradicate the sovereignty of borders and the former Yugoslavia is a case in point. In creating a large "united states of Europe" all the countries of Europe will be much more easily controlled by a central body -- globalism in full force. Of course, economic "advantages" are used to entice the support of the intended victims.

Giving Kosovo independence is absurd because it rewards illegal immigrants supported by the communist dictator Tito , who decided it wasn't enough to have countless concessions from the Serbs but that they would take it all, and then they proceeded to govern it with war criminals and to turn a once beautiful region into a hive of criminality of the worst kind.

Serbia should have nothing to do with the EU. And rewarding the Kosovo Albanians with independence because they threaten violence if they don't get it is as sick as it gets. We wouldn't raise or children that way, yet we kowtow to the Kosovo Albanians. It's degrading to all of us.

“After such politics of empty threats and attempts to blackmail the international community, we received bombs. We can try that again and we probably will not get bombs, but Serbia will stay lonely; an imprisoned island, not an island of freedom,” Svilanović said.

This part is so true.
-----------------------

Nehat, Svilanovic used to be foreign minister. And he is also from Kosovo - you should know that!
(bganon, 10. August 2007 13:05)

This shows me how racist you are. This guy from the name sounds serbian but bc he was born in Kosova you automatically dismiss him, thats very racist.

"The benefit? Who cares! It will hurt them and us."

You are still missing my point.

If Kosovo is independent there is nothing to do anymore. Why would you think it would be good for Serbia to cut its ties with Europe.
As I said earlier, you will will feel "insulted, hurt, humiliated etc." just like Germany after WW2. but unfortunately for you there is nothing else to do, the show is over.

I am not advocating whether Serbia should joint EU or not, this is Serbia's to decide but it's just odd how far some of you would go to try to prove a pointless point. I would care less what Serbia does.

And one more thing, it will hurt only Serbia not EU. You have to be blind not to see that.

"Dino, name one other country that had to give up it's sovereignty/land/change borders for EU membership."

Again, that's not what I am saying. Not giving up Kosovo for EU integration is something that fits your mentality and that's fine.
I am saying AFTER THE FACT( which means you like it or not, you approve it or not) that Kosovo becomes independent why on earth would you worsen your situation by cutting ties with EU like that Leon guy was saying?

This is also a case to show how life in Serbia is not easy, especially if you are an editor of an independent media that tells the truth and is talorant to others.
Hats off to B92 for exposing this story.
Thank You

**PEACE**

http://www.b92.net/info/komentari.php?nav_id=258776#hrono

Nehat, Svilanovic used to be foreign minister. And he is also from Kosovo - you should know that!
(bganon, 10. August 2007 13:05)

This shows me how racist you are. This guy from the name sounds serbian but bc he was born in Kosova you automatically dismiss him, thats very racist.
(John, 10. August 2007 21:50)

John as you know I also wrote:

'Whilst I might not agree with everything Svilanovic says I find his input constructive rather than destructive'.

If you interpret those comments as dismissing him and racist then you need your head examined.

Dont expect me to respond to such groundless comments in the future. If you have an issue to debate fine but otherwise please dont interact with me.

I trust this comment will be published as an accusation was made against me without any foundation.

Cheers

Finally a rational voice!

Anthony: I apologised for the misunderstanding and that is all. I think you are reading too much in it.
Considering you hold a BA as you proudly informed us, your Enmglish seems to be very poor. Where in the world did you read that I suggested you prescribe to Grasanin's views. I said IF YOU READ THE NACERTANIJE...and that my dear Anthony can in no way be interpreted as "Anthony prescribes to Garasanin's views".
And you do have a very short sighted view of history too. The fact that it was writen in 1850 does not make the Nacertanije irrelevant. Most of the border problems the Balkans are dealing with now stem from those years and the way our politicians are trying to deal with them is also reminiscent of those times and that is especially true in the case of Serbia and Milosevic. The Nacertanije was a blueprint as you rightly point out and that's what blueprints are for: for other people to build on them. Garasanin's ideas have been modified to take into account a new reality but they are alive and well. Don't forget that the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes and the interbellum Yugoslavia, were very much built upon those ideas.
And I am aware of the bias of Albanian history books on the events that led to the occupation of Kosovo in 1912-13 and the events that followed. That is why I have made a point of reading kooks from a variety of sources including Serb ones which on the whole I must say are just as biased. I suggest you do the same and if you do you might as well skip through a book or two on the Conference of Ambassadors. It might prove illuminating.
And I am aware of Garasanin's role in organizing the rebellion you speak off. There have been others rebellions too with the help of the Serbs and Montenegrins and other people like Garasanin too. But that is not the point I was making. Go and find a few Serb history book where they explain what the aim behind that help was and then you just might understand what I was saying. If you are interested you might also have a look at the Carnegie Report. It might help gain a better understanding of the "liberation" of Kosovo.

Who is this guy... and why is he not your President/Priminister...

too sorry he is to democratic for the serb national who believe in blackmail and manipulation as the statement to threaten the west and the Kosovars.

Yes Mr. Svilanovic, that’s right. I really hope that Serbia will not remain a country that destabilizes entire region, because of whom will suffer entire Balkans!
Some Serbian politicians can still fool themselves and their people that they do not need approach to Euro-Atlantic organizations and the west, but take as example “Zastava” in Kragujevac, that is a millstone for Serbian budget for over 5 years, what would happen if “General Motors” withdraws from the plans? That’s only one example, as there are hundreds of similar ones that could get out the region from collapse!

If Serbia keep going with these kind of threats, then I am sure it is going to isolated from the rest of the world just like it was Albanian during the Hoxha's regime.
Almost all the countires that are in Serbia's border are in NATO, EU or in the way to do so.

This gentleman seems to me that he knows what's going to happen if Serbia keep doing what is doing.
It is so simple for Serbia this time I think. Let Kosovo go and you'll be into EU/NATO and have a great income of that; OR in the other hand, keep threatening and keep refusing to compromise about Kosovo and you'll be an isolated country form the rest of the world, which means POOR.

Common Kate Princip Jovan and Petrovich, Tell this person that he is worthless and he is lying and he dosnt know what hes talking about. Right now he is saying in "case" Kosovo gets independence! Soon the case will become bigger, than we will open the Case and take our independence! And to Mr petrovich about yesterday, the figures i gave are easily found with the keyword you gave me! If Albanians were such nazzi collaborators maybe Tirana would be among them too, but my dear friend you are bending a square history to fit into a triangle!

I am sorry b92 that i had to reply here but i thought it was a subject to be read! As for your late reporting last night on the burned house, better late than never. Continue your productive jobs!

It is really pity for Serbian people to suffer as a result of their stubborn politicians that like theirs seats so much. They are prepared to risk life’s(of course someone else’s) for their seats. This makes the Kosovo team coordinator immature or he is just getting nervous.
Maybe it is better if you ask people of Serbia what do they think, or maybe they have told not long ago.

If Kosova and Serbia can join the EU as separate countries that would be better otherwise we can live as it is.

EU is the way FFW for all of us. Let us forget these politicians hat are willing to sell our solves to Russia. I dont like LADA life style thanks

I don’t know why my previous comment was not published, but anyway, I’ll try again:

Svilanovic seems to be a reasonable guy! A truly Serb nationalist and patriot could not think differently than him! Only people who do not like to see Serbia and entire region prospering could advocate further isolation and disputes with the west countries. Just remember what did you get during ‘90 ties.
Serbia is slowly moving toward integration, step by step, but hardliners are pushing it back by two steps at once.
Take as an example, “Zastava” factory, what would happen if “General Motors” withdraws its plan to start producing vehicles there. “Zastava” is at the moment only a heavy millstone for the budget, and it is not the only one! Unfortunately, the BG politics is not harming only Serbia, but entire region. Kosovar politics have the very same effect too.
So, my conclusion in all this is, let head towards the prosperity, as two good neighbors, leaving old fashioned politics, looking forward, in order to at least ensure our children have a better future!

He is absolutely right.
Gives me hope to hear Mr. Svilanovic say true and realistic statement.
I have been saying all along that Serbia belongs in EU and not Russia.
Who is Koshtunica bluffing.
He is Milosevic's baby.
Serbian people deserve a better leader.
**PEACE**

Actually all he is saying is that Serbia should not isolate itself over the Kosovo issue. Of course it would be better if this were the case, but then the reality is that if Serbia loses Kosovo and as a result her people overwhelmingly do not wish to join the EU, then it will have a bearing.

Besides which it is good to see free speech and different ideas coming from Serbian politics and the news sources. I will wait to hear a Kosovo Albanian politician saying for example that he is in favour of partition rather than independence and see how respectfully his ideas are treated in Kosovo. Would he be congratulated for free thought? Perhaps the space used for hitlists in one particular newspaper can be given to his opinion column instead.

Someone said here recently that there are various levels of EU membership and I agree with this. There are the 'main countries' and then the rest.

It really is more important for the EU if Serbia joins than the other way round, both in terms if trade and strategically because of Serbia's position. So I wouldn't underplay their motivation for keeping relations good.

“We can say what we want, but Serbia is surrounded by countries in the EU and NATO, so we do not have any other politicies but the ones that lead us towards Euro-Atlantic integrations,” Svilanović said."

In other words, Svilanovic is afraid of encirclement.
But obviously Geography isn't his forte.

Currently only 3 of Serbia's of 8 neighbours are in Nato and EU. And I frankly don't think countries like Bosnia and Albania are going to be admitted anytime soon into EU if ever at all.

By the way Switzerland is completely surrounded by EU and Nato countries. Are the Swiss isolated and poor? A substantial part of their trade is definitely outside Europe. So should Serbia necessarily be poor and isolated, especially if she diversifies her trade beyond Europe?

The EU and Nato actually wants Serbia inside them because only Serbia now stands in the way of the entire Danube and its basin becoming an entirely EU-Nato's strategic territory. Serbia is the last piece of this jigzaw that they have not yet managed to piece in.

python,

Switzerland, you are comparing it with Serbia?
Switzerland is a bank to the world, a neutral country.
Switzerland is also neutral in politics.
What did I do to deserve this?
God knows.

**PEACE**

Of course, Serbia should not try to join the EU or NATO. Serbia is a great country of great people. You can be even greater without Kosova and Vojvodina. If in doubt, you can always join a union with Belarus and Russia.

Princip: You are sounding a bit like the fox and the grapes there on the EU!
No one ever said that the European Union was a panacaea, but the prospect of EU membership does provide the motivation for reform that most of our countries need. You know that the democratic tradition is not strong in our area of the world - neither is the economy - and if we had not had the EU "carrot" as well as EU support many countries - especially in the so-called Western Balkans would have probably gone the way the Central Asiatic Republics are going. Wasn't that what Milosevic tried to do? And wasn't the Serbian revolution to a great extent motivated by a wish to catch up to the rest of Europe not just economically but also politically?
It would be very short sighted for Serbia to turn its back on the EU because of Kosovo. If such a move could guarantee that Serbia would hold on to Kosovo I might even understand it, but the problem is that it seems you are gonna lose both. Your only partner in Europe (in the geographical sense)would be Russia and given the increasing hostility between the West and Russia it would not be a very smart choice. And in any case Russia is still a bit of a paper tiger.
As an Albanian if I think of it in Realpolitiek terms it would be much better for us if you did renounce NATO, the EU and the West generally to ally yourselves with Russia. That would simply make the West support us even more than they are already doing. But it would not be a good choice on your part.
Your government's stance on Kosovo, their concentration on it to the exlusion of all else reminds me of something the Croats used to say about Tudjman's approach to domestic politics: If you have a tooth ache wear a pair of shoes that hurt!

Kate: the EU is interested in having Serbia as a member, but I think that Serbia has far more to gain from the EU than the EU from Serbia.
I have read several comments where people compare Serbia to Switzerland. It is a far fetched comparison to say the least. Switzerland is not an EU member but it has maintained excellent relations with all the neighbouring countries; it has no territorial claims on them and neither do they have any territorial claims on Switzerland. And then the circumstances are completely different. Switzerland is situated between the economic giants of the EU and has thus been able to profit. Serbia on the other hand is situated in the poorest region of Europe and most neighbouring countries are not really keen in seeing Serbia as their Switzerland. I think that Serbia isolated in this way might come to resemble Albania in Communist times or Byelorussia, but hardly Switzerland.
And Kate there are a lot of discussions on the possibility of partitioning Kosovo in the Albanian press. MOst people however do not agree with such a move and neither has Serbia asked for it. The only situation on which most commentators or politicians agree that Kosovo might be partitioned is if there were an exchange of territory: North of Kosovo for Preshevo.
Butif Serbia were to ask for partition I wonder what that would say of Serbia's claim that Kosovo is its historical heartland?

Kate, Every day you say disturbing things and try to showcase them as facts. eg:"It really is more important for the EU if Serbia joins than the other way round, both in terms if trade and strategically because of Serbia's position"
Number one Vojvodina will want to go to EU, with or with out Serbia, all the minority's will want EU. The foreign investors would invest more and would have a higher security in case Serbia would be part of the EU. I am sure as you in the UK cant live a happy life with out Serbia being part of the EU!
Secondly great strategic positioning, tough call again, landlocked, Not connected to any strategic land such as borders with key non EU interests! Montenegro will be EU too, so in case Serbia down choose the EU it will be a blank corridor.
As for Switzerland. That is really a special case with 3 cantons who already have a country!

Kate,
we're talking about the comments made by Mr. Svilanovic on the issue of Serbia looking forward even in the event of KOSOVO INDEPENDENCE. He made the statement. We think he is right. Agreeable.
For you to say about a Kosovo politician to agree with the partition of Kosovo in case it becomes INDEPENDENT, just does NOT ADD UP!!!
You are talking about apples and oranges here.
Where do you get this angle from? WISHFULL THINKING?

**PEACE**

Here, its on B92.
read:
http://www.b92.net/eng/news/in_focus.php?id=96&start=0&nav_id=42927

**PEACE**

bganon; I didn't know him and I don't know half of the Kosovar politician, he is a sensible and smart politicians and I'm sure if you had this kind of attitude/policy in the late 80's then you would not have ended up where you are now when no one else apart from Russia with its own interest trust you serb government think about it kate principt.

It is strange how most Serb politicians start speaking rationally once they leave the government.
And Dragan I don't think Kostunica is brilliant at anything, but even if he were brilliant people are sometimes blinded by their brilliance.
I actually think is the typical "tough guy" authoritarian type politician like many others in the Balkans who values his political career far more than Kosovo or your future for that matter. As long as he stays in power the pox on the average Serb who has trouble making ends meet.

Well of course that EU needs more Serbia than Serbia needs EU.
What can Serbia offer to EU? Let me see hmm …
Well me dear friends, say whatever you like and look for examples around for as much as you want the day will come that you will regret any posting against Serbia joining EU same as the people that fought for great Serbia that regret every single day of war. It is really fortunate that people that oppose Serbia joining EU are minority less than 30%, number that is steadily degrease.
People of Serbia have learned a lesson , B92 in Serbian can tell how happy are peolple of Serbia for a statement like that. I suggest to some like, kate, princip etc read some of the posting there and think again.
Nobody in Serbia cares about Kosova except housewife’s, pensioners and some here.

Kosova status would be nice if is defined now but if not it is fine as it is anyway. Independence is the final solution we all know. Partition is the worst ever solution for Balkans, why, you all know what would happen

Easy on Kate Noel. A jingoist or two makes for a more lively discussion.

Slowly but syraly serbia politicians are coming to gripps with reality and I like to see proper serbia holdinga referndum and in the ballot should be two questions, as follows: 1. Should serbia keep Kosova ta ab\ny cost even if it means war/ 2. Should serbia become e member of EU and join democratic world and not to go back to stone ages?
I think everybody with excpetion of houswifes and pesnioner including the likes of Koshutinca will vote # 2.

Cvele, are you going to revoke your Serbian citizenship (wherever you live) if Kosovo wins independence in order to punish the country for "letting go" of Kosovo?
As dino says there is nothing that Serbia could do.

Svilanović, maybe right up to a point but then surely it is also irrational that the US and a 'few' European states that insist Serbia to give up on it's sovereignity!

In any case we are in 2007 and EU & NATO membership are no longer the only way forward - so much has changed since the 90's - that I do agree with! Maybe a better signal from Serbia would be giving up on NATO instead and pursue membership of SCO instead!

Beyond that EU membership itself is not the panacea that others make out - Serbia needs to do what is in Serbia's interest - moving along with the SAA talks should be for the right reasons and Serbia can lear from the current entrants - what is it specifically that they have done that has been beneficial and what has been negative - memebership alone does not solve all problems and can create new ones. For instance Slovakia has excelled since accession but Hungary has gone backwards in comparison - yet prior to the membership Hugary was outperforming Slovakia hands down. Serbia needs to look at Romania and Bulgaria closely now that they are members and learn from them. Trade is one of the keys and it is not just membership of a club!

By the way where was Svilanović when Swedens Bildt said the same practically the same last Nov.? http://www.b92.net/eng/insight/tvshows.php?yyyy=2006&mm=11&nav_id=38033

Are we to assume then that Svilanović would suggest Bildt is irrational too?

Kojen was after all just turning what has been said by the EU on it's head and I would tend to believe that his statement that Serbia "“has no place among those who actively support dismemberment of its territory.”" is more rational!

To Princip: Svilanović, maybe right up to a point but then surely it is also irrational that the US and a 'few' European states that insist Serbia to give up on it's sovereignity!

For what kind of sovereignity you taling about? Serbia never had sovereignity over Kosova. Kosova was occupied by Serbia helped by Russia and som other countries hundred years ago. Same thing you did that time as now. You were against Albanian state because you were not enough with half of albanian territory occupied by you.

Zoran, Cvele;

Can one of you please explain what would be the benefit of Serbia to severe the integration with EU in case Kosovo becomes independent?
Sure, your pride will be hurt but that's not what we are talking about here.

What you are advocating here is for Serbia to commit suicide for something that it is irreversible and it cannot change. I am an albanian and still wish for Serbia to be integrated in EU for the good of the whole region. I am really puzzled by your position. In the most likely scenario that Kosovo becomes independent there is nothing that Serbia can to do reverse that decision. Your nationalistic cries are really out of context here because you will be causing much damage to your own people!!

It seems like Serbs are now very happy with 1244. If so, then why all the complains about the situation in Kosova?

"The benefit? Who cares! It will hurt them and us."

You are still missing my point.

If Kosovo is independent there is nothing to do anymore. Why would you think it would be good for Serbia to cut its ties with Europe.
As I said earlier, you will will feel "insulted, hurt, humiliated etc." just like Germany after WW2. but unfortunately for you there is nothing else to do, the show is over.

I am not advocating whether Serbia should joint EU or not, this is Serbia's to decide but it's just odd how far some of you would go to try to prove a pointless point. I would care less what Serbia does.

And one more thing, it will hurt only Serbia not EU. You have to be blind not to see that.

"Dino, name one other country that had to give up it's sovereignty/land/change borders for EU membership."

Again, that's not what I am saying. Not giving up Kosovo for EU integration is something that fits your mentality and that's fine.
I am saying AFTER THE FACT( which means you like it or not, you approve it or not) that Kosovo becomes independent why on earth would you worsen your situation by cutting ties with EU like that Leon guy was saying?

Switzerland is surrounded by EU countries as well, so what. Smartest countries didn't rush to join.

Nehat, Svilanovic used to be foreign minister. And he is also from Kosovo - you should know that!

Whilst I might not agree with everything Svilanovic says I find his input constructive rather than destructive which is the tone Simic and Kojen set in the last day or so.

I have to say that it is a shame that Kosovo Albanians dont have a similar leader willing to challenge or to engage with majority (Kosovo Albanian) thinking.

Predictor re Zastava you might want to keep reading. Peugeot officials are currently visiting Zastava in Kragujevac with a view to buying the company. So the real story is not whether GM or Fiat for that matter would pull out of deals with Zastava, but whether Zastava will be succesfully sold securing its medium term future.

The Serbian government has poured a lot of money into Zastava for sure but if it succeeds in its aim to sell to a major car company - securing the jobs of those working there and its future, it will be money well worth spent.

Yes, and Serbia was an isolated island during Hitler's Europe. Not much has changed. Once again Serbia is standing for what is right while others are willing to break the law to get what they want. I think it is very similar. Serbia is actually standing up for principle.

I hate to disappoint all the albanian posters on here who have fallen in love with Svilanovic, but he is not the Serbian prime minister. We have much better leadership than that right now. Thanks for your opinion Mr. Svilanovic, but I think Mr. Kostunica knows what he is doing, as has been proven. He is a brilliant politician and diplomat. That is why he is where he is, and you are where you are.

Beni,

I and others must have been through this countless times but the fact remains and hence all the discussion aswell as the UN SC that, UN SC resolution 1244 clearly and unequivocally RE-Affirms Serbia's sovereignity over it's southern province (it states FR Yugoslavia - Serbia being the successor state to FR Yugoslavia and please don't get confused with SFR Yugoslavia).

Beni, why else do you think these talks are still on going? They need Serbia's consent to make it legal and all other avenues will lead to at best a simple Status quo partition but no legitamcy and at worst destructive war. I would rather the jaw-jaw continued then to force events and equally found a compromise that respects international law!

This is also a case to show how life in Serbia is not easy, especially if you are an editor of an independent media that tells the truth and is talorant to others.
Hats off to B92 for exposing this story.
Thank You

**PEACE**

http://www.b92.net/info/komentari.php?nav_id=258776#hrono

Let the Serb people decide on whether or not to giveup Kosovo,and without any partition.

Take a binding vote to decide and let the chips fall as they may. That way no Serb politician will be killed for suggesting such an "unpatriotic" idea!
No need to mention EU MEMBERSHIP being associated with this vote, the Serb people are smart enough to read between the lines.

Go for it, what have you to lose!!!

Yesterday their was a comment from the editor regarding reasons for posts placed by Matthew not being added but, here we are with direct attacks at an indivuals viewpoint being posted and adding nothing to the debate;

The guy is just being rational,that's all. Kate you're such a Serbian Jingoist.
(Noel, UK, 10. August 2007 15:06)

Does anyone else think something is wrong?

I know I get a bit heated too but usually it is about the article content and then continues with a counter from the opposing viewpoint just as exemplified by Teni with the comment "You are sounding a bit like the fox and the grapes there on the EU! "

- this is fine because he then carries on with some substance about the whole article - irresepctive of me agreeing with him!

However, Noel has no substance & is clearly using it as an opportunity to have a personal dig at Kate - nothing more nothing less.

Come on editors this is beyond a joke and I guess this won't be posted without editing which I have noticed too! Also if I am getting personal then your free to let me know!

Sovereignty is Resolution 1244. NOTHING ELSE!

Your myths or our history matter to no one. All that matters is that 1 paper with the signatures because other countries are relying on the exact same law.

So according to Svilanovic Serbia will be isolated by the rest of the world unless it joins the EU. Talk about scare tactics! Is the EU the WHOLE WORLD? Mr. Svilanovic, who is doing the "blackmailing" now? Serbia will surly not be isolated and would (does)have trading partners with booming economies and large markets for Serbian goods. On top of that, Serbia would still be able to trade with the EU, you don't have to be in the club to trade with it! Mr. Svilanovic, who is paying you to say such nonsense? This is a threat, give up your sovereignty or face the consequences, and this coming from a Serb.

Miri, Dino
The benefit? Who cares! It will hurt them and us. But it wont be the end of the world. But there is really no need to even think about this... Kosovo isnt and wont be independent. God bless all Ruskies.

python,

Switzerland, you are comparing it with Serbia?
Switzerland is a bank to the world, a neutral country.
Switzerland is also neutral in politics.
What did I do to deserve this?
God knows.

**PEACE**
(lazer, 10. August 2007 13:44)

You honestely believe that it would be neutral in politics if someone were to... say... try and take away 15% of its territory?

it was to be expected that the Albanians here would jump on the train and comment this article
first of all, listen to Princips words, he´s put it right. ( althoug it is really nerving to repeat something you obviously refuse to understand )
UNSC 1244 says it all. fullstop.

and has anyone of you smart guys spent only a second of thinking why Mr.Svilanović doesn´t play an important role in the Kosovo-issue?

Serbia will be part of the EU anyway...there´s not even a doubt that Serbia will rise again as the economic center of the region.

OK Dino. What I have been saying in many of my comments is the reverse of what you are saying. It would be "suicide" to tare apart a sovereign, internationally recognized country in order to join the EU club! Dino, name one other country that had to give up it's sovereignty/land/change borders for EU membership. If the EU does not recognize Serbia as a sovereign, independent state then it (Serbia) is just an EU colony and that is SUICIDE! I am not totally against EU membership but as it now stands the price is too high and I believe that Serbia would do just fine without being in a club which asks you to cut off your arm to join, especially since no other country had to adhere to this precondition.

Svilanovic says >> Serbia will be isolated by the rest of the world unless it joins the EU.

The EU is a club of 27 nations some of whom Serbia does not even trade with! They are hardly the whole world WOW what arrogant! The EU has become as arrogant as the Americans! The World is 197 Nations not 27 plus America.

“After such politics of empty threats and attempts to blackmail the international community, we received bombs. We can try that again and we probably will not get bombs, but Serbia will stay lonely; an imprisoned island, not an island of freedom,” Svilanović said.

This part is so true.
-----------------------

Nehat, Svilanovic used to be foreign minister. And he is also from Kosovo - you should know that!
(bganon, 10. August 2007 13:05)

This shows me how racist you are. This guy from the name sounds serbian but bc he was born in Kosova you automatically dismiss him, thats very racist.

It seems like Serbs are now very happy with 1244. If so, then why all the complains about the situation in Kosova?
(Adrian Gashi, 10. August 2007 20:40)

Adrian, could you please explain what at all you wanted to say?
it doesn´t make sense, actually.

just to inform you, UNSC reaffirmes the territorial integrity of the Republic of Serbia.

on the other hand, there is, sad but true, a criminal bunch , not all of course, but some Albanians, burning down churches, beating up old women and so on.

those two things are related? it would be interesting to read your explanation!

by the way: it´s Kosovo with an o at the end! Kosova is a tribe in central Africa! =)

Cvele, are you going to revoke your Serbian citizenship (wherever you live) if Kosovo wins independence in order to punish the country for "letting go" of Kosovo?
As dino says there is nothing that Serbia could do.
(miri, 10. August 2007 19:39)

To Miri - although your comment is directed at Cvele - I want to pose a question to you -

Are you giving up your quest for the greater albania should this fantasy become a reality? No need to elaborate as you know precisely what is being referred to here?

Nehat, Svilanovic used to be foreign minister. And he is also from Kosovo - you should know that!
(bganon, 10. August 2007 13:05)

This shows me how racist you are. This guy from the name sounds serbian but bc he was born in Kosova you automatically dismiss him, thats very racist.
(John, 10. August 2007 21:50)

John as you know I also wrote:

'Whilst I might not agree with everything Svilanovic says I find his input constructive rather than destructive'.

If you interpret those comments as dismissing him and racist then you need your head examined.

Dont expect me to respond to such groundless comments in the future. If you have an issue to debate fine but otherwise please dont interact with me.

I trust this comment will be published as an accusation was made against me without any foundation.

Cheers

The statement from Svilanovic is simple. Kosovo problem is a matter of survival while EU membership could become base for economical prosperity. First of all Serbs have to establish full control over Kosovo as a matter of prime national interest, and later to carefully examine the potential benefits in relation to EU membership. In the current situation EU memberships is not good idea, taking in consideration EU approach to Kosovo problem.
EU membership acceptance by Serbia is important for EU existence. EU creators never stated it. They just hoped that Serbia would never fully realise that fact and use in negotiation in regards to Kosovo future status.
To be respected by others Serbia has to respect itself. The comments that supports Serbian memberships within EU and NATO by any price have been posted by readers that do not respect itself at the first place or by an enemies of Serbia.

Dino, after the "fact" or the big IF. Would you Dino make a partnership with someone who does not even acknowledge your most basic of rights, in this case inviolable borders/recognition of sovereignty?

The EU was formed to eventually eradicate the sovereignty of borders and the former Yugoslavia is a case in point. In creating a large "united states of Europe" all the countries of Europe will be much more easily controlled by a central body -- globalism in full force. Of course, economic "advantages" are used to entice the support of the intended victims.

Giving Kosovo independence is absurd because it rewards illegal immigrants supported by the communist dictator Tito , who decided it wasn't enough to have countless concessions from the Serbs but that they would take it all, and then they proceeded to govern it with war criminals and to turn a once beautiful region into a hive of criminality of the worst kind.

Serbia should have nothing to do with the EU. And rewarding the Kosovo Albanians with independence because they threaten violence if they don't get it is as sick as it gets. We wouldn't raise or children that way, yet we kowtow to the Kosovo Albanians. It's degrading to all of us.