KS said..."Roger, I posted that stuff not Miri".
You, as well as miri, posted "that stuff". You were incorrect in your attempt to find fault with my post.
Read post #28 please.
Kate:
"Even those who were totally anti-Serbian during 1999 did not necessarily agree with Nato's barbarity against civilians."
Nice foronce to be able to agree with Kate. I'm one of those she refers to.
I hoped that the KLA couldhave got enough arms to give Serbia'sparamilitary thugs a bloody nose though. That would have been a better way to defend the Albanians under attack than cluster bombing Nis hospital or destroying bridges on the Danube, 100's of miles north of Kosova.
Jovan, so the Kosovars during that time, under serbian rule were able to do all that?
Stop trying to persuade albanians as a backwards people with intentions of terrorism.
Look at your own country.
-Protects War Criminals (Terrorists)
-Oppresses minorities
-Starts wars
-Uses genocide for hopes of greater serbia
-threatens USA/NATO/EU
-calls everyone a terrorist except itself.
Stop the bs, the guiltiest people on this side of the earth are the serbs.
miri,
Regrettably, you did not read my post carefully.
I stated that “the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family."
You stated “The Albanian language comprises its own independent branch of the Indo-European language family.” The key word is “independent”
If, at any time, the information I share on this site were incorrect, I would not hesitate to apologize and correct my error. This is not one of those times. My statement regarding the Albanian language is correct.
If you are going to teach me something then please use a reputable source. Most educators do not believe Wikipedia to be reliable for obvious reasons.
My source is as follows
http://www.nvtc.gov/lotw/months/february/albanian.html
How many civilians were killed or how many left their homes in Serbia (excluding K-Albanians in Kosovo)because of the bombing. If your numbers come out to be higher than 10000 civilians killed and 1 million leaving their homes than I buy your arguments. Well you get my point.
miri - Even Nato admitted that they hit civilian targets. Michael Short and Wesley Clark both referred to making life unbearable for all Serbs in their daily lives so they would rise up against Milosevic.
Bombing innocent people doesn't help innocents who were vicitims of atrocities. Do you think the boy (Albanian, but it's irrelevant) whose family died in the refugee column when it was bombed by Nato was 'grateful'? No death of civilians is acceptable, and that includes those caused by Nato.
You are naive in the extreme if you think that satellites can pinpoint a house number from space, but can't tell that they are hitting a maternity ward, passenger train, embassy, schools... the list goes on. By the way, knocking out power grids is also hitting civilian infrastructure, as is poisoning water sources.
It was a well-known fact that pilots were returning to the Aviano base with their bombs rather than dropping them. The Spanish and Italians had senior military people against the bombing who were sympathetic to asking their pilots to commit war crimes.
Even those who were totally anti-Serbian during 1999 did not necessarily agree with Nato's barbarity against civilians. You assume that if people empathised with the Albanians they couldn't also empathise with Serbs. People are people.
"Princip did you know that under Italian rule Albania and Kosova were united all the way to Mitrovica as a "greater albania." This happened in the last decades.
(KS, 14. September 2007 18:58)"
you only forgot to mention that this happened while Albanians sided with NAZI-Germany and fascist Italy, and that you killed and drove out the non-albanian population.
we all know why you have not mentioned that! but, even avoiding the truth will not help you to get away with illegal aggression!
Well it is really hard for me to understand that a NATO pilot was ordered to drop bombs on civilians. (miri, 14 September 2007, 17:15)
Are you seriously trying to say that NATO was trying to avoid civilian targets?
Why was a civilian bus in Kosovo blown sky high?
Why was the RTS station in the middle of Belgrade blown Sky high?
Why was the Public Utility and Electrical Power Grids blown Sky high?
Why were bridges blown Sky High?
Why was the NIS market place targeted with Illegal Cluster Bombs? (Military Installations were hundreds of miles away)
Are you trying to say NATO made a mistake in destroying the Chinese Embassy in Belgrade???
Over 1000 Serbian and Albanian civilians were killed by NATO bombs. An indictment was launched by a group of European and Canadian Lawyers which was dropped by the Hague Kangaroo Court.
NATO was trying to intimidate the Serbian civilians to overthrow Milosevic because the Serbian Army was untouchable in Kosovo and Serbia.
The serb camp seem to be completely misinformed about anything.
1.Albanian is a language spoken by about 7-8 million people, primarily in Albania and Kosovo, but also in other parts of the Balkans with an Albanian population (parts of the Republic of Macedonia, and some parts in Montenegro and Serbia), along the eastern coast of Italy and in Sicily, as well as by a significant diaspora in Greece, Scandinavia, Germany, the United Kingdom, Egypt, Australia, Turkey, and the United States. The language forms its own distinct branch of the Indo-European language family.
2. Switching names all the time, from Kosova to: Kosovo, Metohija, KiM, koset. Serbia to srbija.
3. Kosova wouldn't give up independence for EU. 1st Independent, than join the EU.
Princip did you know that under Italian rule Albania and Kosova were united all the way to Mitrovica as a "greater albania." This happened in the last decades.
"Which means the pilots "t
they themselves" decided not to drop bombs on civillians! What is so hard to understand?
Can you imagine what kind of people nato are when they were ordering pilots to attack civillians/civillian targets? "
Well it is really hard for me to understand that a NATO pilot was ordered to drop bombs on civilians. It is really hard for me to understand that there are some people like you and Kate that claim such things while in the same time denying whole-hearted the testimonies of almost 1 million people of attrocities of Serbian army against civilians in Kosovo.
There are 7 CEFTA countries with a total population of 30 million people( equal to Bulgaria and Romania).5(Bosnia,Serbia,Macedonia,Moldova,Montenegro) of these countries have separatist/secessionist movements(Croatia does not because it ethnically cleansed its Serbs and Albania is for the most part homogenous)and the EU must come up with a plan which will sideline the secessionists.Most people are not political and even in democratic countries more than half do not even bother to vote but in secessionist regions of the world it is extremists who scream the loudest with their threats of violence and therefore get all the attention so the quiet majority is intimidated into silence.The EU can accept all 7 CEFTA countries tomorrow and I guarantee you there will not be any negative overall economic consequences for the EU as a whole.Certain provisions may need to temporarily be in place in some areas of economic life in these 7 countries but the best immediate benefit can be the free movement of people.As far as Kosovo is concerned it is obvious that Serbia will never give up its legal deed which it obtained back in 1912 before Yugoslavia even existed and the drawing of pseudo administrative/political lines by the Communists in order to strip Serbia of its territory.The legalist Europeans understand that Serbia's property rights claim will eventually be upheld in a European court of law if no UNSC Resolution granting Kosovo independence is adopted and for this reason the Europeans should start sidelining the secessionists and take the EU inclusiveness message directly to the masses in Kosovo by telling the people that the only way they will enter the EU is with a Serbian passport today tomorrow and for the next 100 years.Shalom
kate FYI NATO targets weren’t civilian
"Bad example. The pilots often returned having not dropped their bombs because like any sane person they were so against bombing civilians."
I wish serbian army, police, paramilitary and terrorist groups were sane too, but they never failed to miss an opportunity to bomb and massacre Albanian civilians( we all know kate doesn’t care about Albanian civilians)
ahmet isufi says..
"Italy is much closer to Albania and its culture including the language. rather that serbia which far way and and chyrilic language is is different like day and night".
What exactly is the "chyrilic language"?
For your information the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family.
Serbo-Croatian belongs to the South Slavic group of the Slavic branch of the Indo-European language family.
Italian belongs to the Romance branch of the Indo-European language family.
Apart form bganon, nikshala and chris EU citizen that base Serbia prosperity in changes of the Serbian political scene the rest of posts base the prosperity on keeping Kosova inside Serbia. EU politicians are telling regional politicians that they don’t want to deal politics of hate and that hate politics are not welcomed in EU.
Some of you mention that Kosova is to be traded for EU membership. If Serbia with these politicians trades Kosova with EU membership than I believe that Serbia nation will the biggest looser of all. Entering EU with this politicians would be a nightmare for Serbia.
For gods sake Serbs in Serbia, change them and start requesting a better life ”Bolji zivot” ...
To Roger7: "For your information the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family. "
Here is another jewel from Roger7, who regularly accuses the others for lack of intelligence.
"For your information the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family."
I wonder whether you have any knowledge on historical linguistic sciences.
But here is the info for your pleasure.
"Albanian was proven to be an Indo-European language in 1854 by the German philologist Franz Bopp. The Albanian language comprises its own independent branch of the Indo-European language family with no living close relatives (even though there are many dialects of Albanian, distant and remote). Most scholars believe that Albanian derives from the Illyrian language[dubious – discuss] while some claim that it derives from Daco-Thracian (Illyrian and Daco-Thracian, however, might have been closely related languages; see Thraco-Illyrian)."
For more info follow the link
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albanian_language#Classification
hello!
ive been reading alot of serbian news on various sites so i believe in conclusion what should be done is
-mladic to be found which is important look the only way forward is for mladic to be found because serbia is suffering
- kosovo needs to be serbian if not instability will arise in the balkans and europe will not accept that
- i think america will jump ship because kosovo status wont be reslove so the next president of America will decide the status if Bush does resolve it expect instability!
- Eu needs to accept serbia leaving it behind this long is holding the Eu back remember if turkey can get accepted in the Eu which is geographically not in the European region why cant serbia be in Eu! and to people who say because of the political reasons do you think Romania is in a better situation than Serbia!
ok mladic needs to be found. the people in kosovo need to be sorted out i.e. corruption and bad buys need to be kicked out this includes both cultures but remember KOSOVO with a O at the end is serbian and always will be!!! Also Serbia needs to be granted in Eu as soon as possible
thanks and get job serbia! (im a serbian croatian hertiage and live in australia so im from a neutral perspective) :)
What Kate was trying to explain is that often planes came back with their bomb. Which means the pilots "they themselves" decided not to drop bombs on civillians! What is so hard to understand?
Can you imagine what kind of people nato are when they were ordering pilots to attack civillians/civillian targets?
Someone wrote: "Albanian archeologists will start "discovering" Bronze Age artifacts which "prove" that Northern Europe is the original home of the Illyrian people, and that the ancient tribe of the Franks were actually descended from the Illyrian chieftain Prenk Francusi. Then, of course, a movement for an autonomous Albanian region will commence along with the formation of the North Dardania Liberation Army followed by kidnappings, assasinations and terrorism and so on and so forth. The problem will be for Brussels to deal with, and in the end, Kosovo will remain Serbian."
You forgot to mention that we will bribe the Super Power of the day to bomb northern Europe into submission.
"Clearly the Italians are close to the region have a far better understanding of regional politics then say the UK who in the past blindly followed US foreign policy with no consideration of consequences", said one of bloggers. How soon serbia forgets that Aviano Base was the primary military base for bombing serbia. Italy is much closer to Albania and its culture including the language. rather that serbia which far way and and chyrilic language is is different like day and night. Prodi is just playing political games, that is all folks.
Prodi has put a good foot forward. Candidate status has benefits without the mandatory drawbacks (tough economic decisions) that membership will have. Actual membership is a long way from being realized.
Kosovo will make everything harder in the immediate circumstance and the future, given its long-standing poor economic record. As for this proposal, if this were to happen, Kosovo Albanians would leave in a massive migration - eventually being returned by force. For that reason, Prodi's proposal won't go anywhere.
What is not highlited in the article is that the candidate EU accession status for Serbia is linked to the Kosovo independence recognition by Belgrade. Mr.
Prodi has clearly said that Serbian government should see the situation as a bargain.
Credit to Mr Prodi for not just making friendly statements on the EU issue in public but actually working behind closed doors to help Serbia.
However, I'd warn those that think that accelerated membership of the EU is doable that it is not a realistic option.
The reality is that unless the next membership countries are delayed from getting in (Croatia etc) Serbia will not be able to ready its economy in time. Its not merely a matter of signing on the dotted line or indeed of handing over Ratko Mladic.
A number of industries in Serbia will be forced to close as they will not be economically viable. New jobs will of course replace them in time but the Serbian government will be forced to sack workers, introduce new standards etc. Much of which wont be particularly popular. Looking at Kostunica's past record he doesnt exactly look like the kind of leader who has the courage to do that kind of thing. In other words its highly unlikely that this current government would be the one to enter the EU.
No, history shows that countries usually enter the EU together not as single members. Thus Serbia must hope that opinion prevails in the EU that Croatian membership is delayed until say 2009/2010 and we enter together with Montenegro and Macedonia.
There is also the question of Kosovo - not just status but economically speaking. Reforms must be made there too, much of which has not even begun.
A delay of course would cause a huge backlash in Croatia, not only because of the delay but most would not be able to stomach entering the EU with former Yugoslavia countries.
There is no magic wand but Prodi's input is helpful.
Allt this talk about Ratko Mladic concerning EU membership for Serbia is ridiculous!
I would like the anti serb side to explain to me one thing: Do you really honestly belives that the doors to EU will be closed to Serbia forever if Ratko Mladic is not caught until 2010 when the Hague tribunal ends it works??
I read this news from Albanian sources.There was a little difference in Prodi's statement. All good things will happen to Serbia if
(and only if) the Serbs accept Kosova's independence. This is not mentioned here.But even if this condition was not put foward still Serbia geografically is in Europa and will one day be part of the union. I doubt that day will be ahead of Kosova. Serbia's advantages to reach the union are not significant compared to Kosova. Not any particular industry that makes Europa eager to take Serbia.The economy you have needs new technology since the existing one is outdated.
who is naive here?
Prodi said for Serbia to join EU, not Kosova. EU treats these two entities seperate remember? We (Kosova) will join EU when we are ready, better slow but sure than fast and to be a burden to the EU.
I'm suprise as to how some are interpreting this news. The reason why Prodi suggested this, was becasue he know that independence of Kosovo in imminent, and there he wants to create stronger ties between EU and Serbia, so serbia doesn't become radicalized and and 'mini Russia'. The aim of this proposal is to soften the blow of independnece, soften the anger of serbs, and soften the resistance of Belgrade.
Blacky for you info, Serbia causing a blockade of Kosovo would be a good thing since it would stop all the illegal contraband and trade- and it would lead to better economic ties with Albania and Macedonia as and UNMIK official recently said ' They would welcome that move;. Personaly I hope Serbia does do that.
And as far as albanians wanting to be in Serbia if Serbia was in EU - you are very wrong, my friend. We would not accept under any circumstances to be with Serbia.
and while I think that maybe giving Serbia some incevites (Eu candidate) could bring it closed to the 21st, as century away from 1389, as long as Serbia had such a destrucitve policy towards Kosovo, it will never be able to join.
So even though they aren't saying it directly, everybody knows that its a choice between EU and Kosovo (which is lost anyway).
The truth is that Serbia could get and ask for major benefits if its willing to compromise on Kosovo, however with pro russian poltiicans such as DSS, i doubt it. Its a shame that some of you fail to see the harm that you are casuing to youself.
I personally agree with you Olf and would like to agree with Mr. Prodi. There is the need for more freedom of movement for Serbian citizens. Those Visas are archaism in Europe where Serbia has always had its place! That is by offering to all the opportunities to travel and meet other cultures that we will allow Serbian culture to be more open on the world, less “nationalistic”, less aggressive with their neighbors and minorities. However, how to imagine Serbia EU membership in actual situation? This is a lie to us. EU project is about creating peaceful and stable zone in Europe, political and economical close cooperation between neighboring countries, promotion of human right values... EU is an ideal, even if its actual reality might be not so idealistic. There is often miss conception on EU in the region and it is partly the fault of EU promoting only its financial and economical advantages, instead of working on intercultural cooperation first. This not just a club of rich countries, this is a project you have to work for every day, based on complicate compromises between peoples having different cultures, political and religious backgrounds. Serbia in EU, yes if they want to get in, if they want share the EU basic principles, if they accept their neighbors, if they accept to give rights to their minorities... Bulgaria and Romania made it, but they were much more advanced that Serbia on those topics, so the way is still long! Will they accept Albania, Turkey, Croatia EU membership and all sharing the same EU citizenship? The same questions appliy to those last countries also and is matter of daily struggle even for actual EU members. Will they accept their neighbors to travel freely, to set up where they want, to bye houses in Kosovo if they want...? So no hurry! EU is not a magic potion solving all the problems of the regions or we take the risk to weaken even more EU project. Serbians also have to want to help themselves first! Kick out this Kostunica and all those fascists from power first and fight for a better life! Good luck!
Very interesting idea. Think about it. Serbia in the EU would then be a very difficult problem for the Kosovar Albanians. Imagine being offered a chance to be in an EU country, with full autonomy, all the perks of being in the EU. WOuld they want to be independent then? I don't think so. Why? Because when it comes down to it, they will realize that Serbia would cut off all borders with them, deprive them of the UN vote with Russian support, and cause Kosovo to end up being the poorest state in Europe. OR, they could be in an EU country soon. An article recently even went into how the ALbanians in Kosovo are applying for Serbian passports because of the special benefits. They say they don't want to do it, but they have to. So the question is... would they feel the same if Serbia (along with Kosovo) enters the EU?
The idea of granting Serbia EU membership quickly would solve the problem. Only extremists in Kosovo would be against it, but eventually the ALbanians will start to turn against each other and in the end I think they will realize staying within Serbia is the wisest move. Sort of how this whole problem started... you know, the mass exodus from Albania during the communist days in order to live a better life in Serbia.
Yesterday, Princip made the following comment in response to another poster on the "Spanish Press" article:
Gjon, I take it you don't wish to be part of the EU when the Serbia is admitted?
So now we have the final solution for Kosovo-
Admit Serbia to the EU, whereupon all the Albanians of Kosovo will flood into Germany, France, Britain with their shiny new passports. Albanian archeologists will start "discovering" Bronze Age artifacts which "prove" that Northern Europe is the original home of the Illyrian people, and that the ancient tribe of the Franks were actually descended from the Illyrian chieftain Prenk Francusi. Then, of course, a movement for an autonomous Albanian region will commence along with the formation of the North Dardania Liberation Army followed by kidnappings, assasinations and terrorism and so on and so forth. The problem will be for Brussels to deal with, and in the end, Kosovo will remain Serbian.
Oh yes Olf there can be conditions just Bulgaria and Romania has when they made it to the EU. I am sure if this is addressed this will be settled. But if will Kosovo or Kosova be invited as quickly as Serbia. Once the status is determined all of those skilled young people will jump to the EU contries if they can and work. Leaving Kosovo in there wake.
Prodi represents just one country of the EU but it is highly positive that Italy courts Serbian membership of the EU so passionately and I am sure it has been thanked by the Serbian governemnt.
Clearly the Italians are close to the region have a far better understanding of regional politics then say the UK who in the past blindly followed US foreign policy with no consideration of consequences. Those who believe the Italians would go the Illegal route best think again and are only too aware that the Germans have laready distanced themselves from such an abrupt and aggressive action against international norms, laws and obligations.
I would like to agree with Mr.Prodi idea. If Bulgaria and Romania made it into EU Serbia can be there too. However, Serbia has to work more intensively on this matter themselves, it is not enough just EU countries to contribute to Serbia membership. Hurdles to overcome are the status of Kosova and surrender of Serbia war heroes for start and change of the current politicians.
Yesterday, Princip made the following comment in response to another poster on the "Spanish Press" article:
Gjon, I take it you don't wish to be part of the EU when the Serbia is admitted?
So now we have the final solution for Kosovo-
Admit Serbia to the EU, whereupon all the Albanians of Kosovo will flood into Germany, France, Britain with their shiny new passports. Albanian archeologists will start "discovering" Bronze Age artifacts which "prove" that Northern Europe is the original home of the Illyrian people, and that the ancient tribe of the Franks were actually descended from the Illyrian chieftain Prenk Francusi. Then, of course, a movement for an autonomous Albanian region will commence along with the formation of the North Dardania Liberation Army followed by kidnappings, assasinations and terrorism and so on and so forth. The problem will be for Brussels to deal with, and in the end, Kosovo will remain Serbian.
Very interesting idea. Think about it. Serbia in the EU would then be a very difficult problem for the Kosovar Albanians. Imagine being offered a chance to be in an EU country, with full autonomy, all the perks of being in the EU. WOuld they want to be independent then? I don't think so. Why? Because when it comes down to it, they will realize that Serbia would cut off all borders with them, deprive them of the UN vote with Russian support, and cause Kosovo to end up being the poorest state in Europe. OR, they could be in an EU country soon. An article recently even went into how the ALbanians in Kosovo are applying for Serbian passports because of the special benefits. They say they don't want to do it, but they have to. So the question is... would they feel the same if Serbia (along with Kosovo) enters the EU?
The idea of granting Serbia EU membership quickly would solve the problem. Only extremists in Kosovo would be against it, but eventually the ALbanians will start to turn against each other and in the end I think they will realize staying within Serbia is the wisest move. Sort of how this whole problem started... you know, the mass exodus from Albania during the communist days in order to live a better life in Serbia.
Prodi represents just one country of the EU but it is highly positive that Italy courts Serbian membership of the EU so passionately and I am sure it has been thanked by the Serbian governemnt.
Clearly the Italians are close to the region have a far better understanding of regional politics then say the UK who in the past blindly followed US foreign policy with no consideration of consequences. Those who believe the Italians would go the Illegal route best think again and are only too aware that the Germans have laready distanced themselves from such an abrupt and aggressive action against international norms, laws and obligations.
I'm suprise as to how some are interpreting this news. The reason why Prodi suggested this, was becasue he know that independence of Kosovo in imminent, and there he wants to create stronger ties between EU and Serbia, so serbia doesn't become radicalized and and 'mini Russia'. The aim of this proposal is to soften the blow of independnece, soften the anger of serbs, and soften the resistance of Belgrade.
Blacky for you info, Serbia causing a blockade of Kosovo would be a good thing since it would stop all the illegal contraband and trade- and it would lead to better economic ties with Albania and Macedonia as and UNMIK official recently said ' They would welcome that move;. Personaly I hope Serbia does do that.
And as far as albanians wanting to be in Serbia if Serbia was in EU - you are very wrong, my friend. We would not accept under any circumstances to be with Serbia.
and while I think that maybe giving Serbia some incevites (Eu candidate) could bring it closed to the 21st, as century away from 1389, as long as Serbia had such a destrucitve policy towards Kosovo, it will never be able to join.
So even though they aren't saying it directly, everybody knows that its a choice between EU and Kosovo (which is lost anyway).
The truth is that Serbia could get and ask for major benefits if its willing to compromise on Kosovo, however with pro russian poltiicans such as DSS, i doubt it. Its a shame that some of you fail to see the harm that you are casuing to youself.
I would like to agree with Mr.Prodi idea. If Bulgaria and Romania made it into EU Serbia can be there too. However, Serbia has to work more intensively on this matter themselves, it is not enough just EU countries to contribute to Serbia membership. Hurdles to overcome are the status of Kosova and surrender of Serbia war heroes for start and change of the current politicians.
ahmet isufi says..
"Italy is much closer to Albania and its culture including the language. rather that serbia which far way and and chyrilic language is is different like day and night".
What exactly is the "chyrilic language"?
For your information the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family.
Serbo-Croatian belongs to the South Slavic group of the Slavic branch of the Indo-European language family.
Italian belongs to the Romance branch of the Indo-European language family.
There are 7 CEFTA countries with a total population of 30 million people( equal to Bulgaria and Romania).5(Bosnia,Serbia,Macedonia,Moldova,Montenegro) of these countries have separatist/secessionist movements(Croatia does not because it ethnically cleansed its Serbs and Albania is for the most part homogenous)and the EU must come up with a plan which will sideline the secessionists.Most people are not political and even in democratic countries more than half do not even bother to vote but in secessionist regions of the world it is extremists who scream the loudest with their threats of violence and therefore get all the attention so the quiet majority is intimidated into silence.The EU can accept all 7 CEFTA countries tomorrow and I guarantee you there will not be any negative overall economic consequences for the EU as a whole.Certain provisions may need to temporarily be in place in some areas of economic life in these 7 countries but the best immediate benefit can be the free movement of people.As far as Kosovo is concerned it is obvious that Serbia will never give up its legal deed which it obtained back in 1912 before Yugoslavia even existed and the drawing of pseudo administrative/political lines by the Communists in order to strip Serbia of its territory.The legalist Europeans understand that Serbia's property rights claim will eventually be upheld in a European court of law if no UNSC Resolution granting Kosovo independence is adopted and for this reason the Europeans should start sidelining the secessionists and take the EU inclusiveness message directly to the masses in Kosovo by telling the people that the only way they will enter the EU is with a Serbian passport today tomorrow and for the next 100 years.Shalom
Credit to Mr Prodi for not just making friendly statements on the EU issue in public but actually working behind closed doors to help Serbia.
However, I'd warn those that think that accelerated membership of the EU is doable that it is not a realistic option.
The reality is that unless the next membership countries are delayed from getting in (Croatia etc) Serbia will not be able to ready its economy in time. Its not merely a matter of signing on the dotted line or indeed of handing over Ratko Mladic.
A number of industries in Serbia will be forced to close as they will not be economically viable. New jobs will of course replace them in time but the Serbian government will be forced to sack workers, introduce new standards etc. Much of which wont be particularly popular. Looking at Kostunica's past record he doesnt exactly look like the kind of leader who has the courage to do that kind of thing. In other words its highly unlikely that this current government would be the one to enter the EU.
No, history shows that countries usually enter the EU together not as single members. Thus Serbia must hope that opinion prevails in the EU that Croatian membership is delayed until say 2009/2010 and we enter together with Montenegro and Macedonia.
There is also the question of Kosovo - not just status but economically speaking. Reforms must be made there too, much of which has not even begun.
A delay of course would cause a huge backlash in Croatia, not only because of the delay but most would not be able to stomach entering the EU with former Yugoslavia countries.
There is no magic wand but Prodi's input is helpful.
who is naive here?
Prodi said for Serbia to join EU, not Kosova. EU treats these two entities seperate remember? We (Kosova) will join EU when we are ready, better slow but sure than fast and to be a burden to the EU.
I read this news from Albanian sources.There was a little difference in Prodi's statement. All good things will happen to Serbia if
(and only if) the Serbs accept Kosova's independence. This is not mentioned here.But even if this condition was not put foward still Serbia geografically is in Europa and will one day be part of the union. I doubt that day will be ahead of Kosova. Serbia's advantages to reach the union are not significant compared to Kosova. Not any particular industry that makes Europa eager to take Serbia.The economy you have needs new technology since the existing one is outdated.
"Clearly the Italians are close to the region have a far better understanding of regional politics then say the UK who in the past blindly followed US foreign policy with no consideration of consequences", said one of bloggers. How soon serbia forgets that Aviano Base was the primary military base for bombing serbia. Italy is much closer to Albania and its culture including the language. rather that serbia which far way and and chyrilic language is is different like day and night. Prodi is just playing political games, that is all folks.
Someone wrote: "Albanian archeologists will start "discovering" Bronze Age artifacts which "prove" that Northern Europe is the original home of the Illyrian people, and that the ancient tribe of the Franks were actually descended from the Illyrian chieftain Prenk Francusi. Then, of course, a movement for an autonomous Albanian region will commence along with the formation of the North Dardania Liberation Army followed by kidnappings, assasinations and terrorism and so on and so forth. The problem will be for Brussels to deal with, and in the end, Kosovo will remain Serbian."
You forgot to mention that we will bribe the Super Power of the day to bomb northern Europe into submission.
miri - Even Nato admitted that they hit civilian targets. Michael Short and Wesley Clark both referred to making life unbearable for all Serbs in their daily lives so they would rise up against Milosevic.
Bombing innocent people doesn't help innocents who were vicitims of atrocities. Do you think the boy (Albanian, but it's irrelevant) whose family died in the refugee column when it was bombed by Nato was 'grateful'? No death of civilians is acceptable, and that includes those caused by Nato.
You are naive in the extreme if you think that satellites can pinpoint a house number from space, but can't tell that they are hitting a maternity ward, passenger train, embassy, schools... the list goes on. By the way, knocking out power grids is also hitting civilian infrastructure, as is poisoning water sources.
It was a well-known fact that pilots were returning to the Aviano base with their bombs rather than dropping them. The Spanish and Italians had senior military people against the bombing who were sympathetic to asking their pilots to commit war crimes.
Even those who were totally anti-Serbian during 1999 did not necessarily agree with Nato's barbarity against civilians. You assume that if people empathised with the Albanians they couldn't also empathise with Serbs. People are people.
Oh yes Olf there can be conditions just Bulgaria and Romania has when they made it to the EU. I am sure if this is addressed this will be settled. But if will Kosovo or Kosova be invited as quickly as Serbia. Once the status is determined all of those skilled young people will jump to the EU contries if they can and work. Leaving Kosovo in there wake.
I personally agree with you Olf and would like to agree with Mr. Prodi. There is the need for more freedom of movement for Serbian citizens. Those Visas are archaism in Europe where Serbia has always had its place! That is by offering to all the opportunities to travel and meet other cultures that we will allow Serbian culture to be more open on the world, less “nationalistic”, less aggressive with their neighbors and minorities. However, how to imagine Serbia EU membership in actual situation? This is a lie to us. EU project is about creating peaceful and stable zone in Europe, political and economical close cooperation between neighboring countries, promotion of human right values... EU is an ideal, even if its actual reality might be not so idealistic. There is often miss conception on EU in the region and it is partly the fault of EU promoting only its financial and economical advantages, instead of working on intercultural cooperation first. This not just a club of rich countries, this is a project you have to work for every day, based on complicate compromises between peoples having different cultures, political and religious backgrounds. Serbia in EU, yes if they want to get in, if they want share the EU basic principles, if they accept their neighbors, if they accept to give rights to their minorities... Bulgaria and Romania made it, but they were much more advanced that Serbia on those topics, so the way is still long! Will they accept Albania, Turkey, Croatia EU membership and all sharing the same EU citizenship? The same questions appliy to those last countries also and is matter of daily struggle even for actual EU members. Will they accept their neighbors to travel freely, to set up where they want, to bye houses in Kosovo if they want...? So no hurry! EU is not a magic potion solving all the problems of the regions or we take the risk to weaken even more EU project. Serbians also have to want to help themselves first! Kick out this Kostunica and all those fascists from power first and fight for a better life! Good luck!
Allt this talk about Ratko Mladic concerning EU membership for Serbia is ridiculous!
I would like the anti serb side to explain to me one thing: Do you really honestly belives that the doors to EU will be closed to Serbia forever if Ratko Mladic is not caught until 2010 when the Hague tribunal ends it works??
kate FYI NATO targets weren’t civilian
"Bad example. The pilots often returned having not dropped their bombs because like any sane person they were so against bombing civilians."
I wish serbian army, police, paramilitary and terrorist groups were sane too, but they never failed to miss an opportunity to bomb and massacre Albanian civilians( we all know kate doesn’t care about Albanian civilians)
What Kate was trying to explain is that often planes came back with their bomb. Which means the pilots "they themselves" decided not to drop bombs on civillians! What is so hard to understand?
Can you imagine what kind of people nato are when they were ordering pilots to attack civillians/civillian targets?
"Princip did you know that under Italian rule Albania and Kosova were united all the way to Mitrovica as a "greater albania." This happened in the last decades.
(KS, 14. September 2007 18:58)"
you only forgot to mention that this happened while Albanians sided with NAZI-Germany and fascist Italy, and that you killed and drove out the non-albanian population.
we all know why you have not mentioned that! but, even avoiding the truth will not help you to get away with illegal aggression!
What is not highlited in the article is that the candidate EU accession status for Serbia is linked to the Kosovo independence recognition by Belgrade. Mr.
Prodi has clearly said that Serbian government should see the situation as a bargain.
Apart form bganon, nikshala and chris EU citizen that base Serbia prosperity in changes of the Serbian political scene the rest of posts base the prosperity on keeping Kosova inside Serbia. EU politicians are telling regional politicians that they don’t want to deal politics of hate and that hate politics are not welcomed in EU.
Some of you mention that Kosova is to be traded for EU membership. If Serbia with these politicians trades Kosova with EU membership than I believe that Serbia nation will the biggest looser of all. Entering EU with this politicians would be a nightmare for Serbia.
For gods sake Serbs in Serbia, change them and start requesting a better life ”Bolji zivot” ...
hello!
ive been reading alot of serbian news on various sites so i believe in conclusion what should be done is
-mladic to be found which is important look the only way forward is for mladic to be found because serbia is suffering
- kosovo needs to be serbian if not instability will arise in the balkans and europe will not accept that
- i think america will jump ship because kosovo status wont be reslove so the next president of America will decide the status if Bush does resolve it expect instability!
- Eu needs to accept serbia leaving it behind this long is holding the Eu back remember if turkey can get accepted in the Eu which is geographically not in the European region why cant serbia be in Eu! and to people who say because of the political reasons do you think Romania is in a better situation than Serbia!
ok mladic needs to be found. the people in kosovo need to be sorted out i.e. corruption and bad buys need to be kicked out this includes both cultures but remember KOSOVO with a O at the end is serbian and always will be!!! Also Serbia needs to be granted in Eu as soon as possible
thanks and get job serbia! (im a serbian croatian hertiage and live in australia so im from a neutral perspective) :)
Well it is really hard for me to understand that a NATO pilot was ordered to drop bombs on civilians. (miri, 14 September 2007, 17:15)
Are you seriously trying to say that NATO was trying to avoid civilian targets?
Why was a civilian bus in Kosovo blown sky high?
Why was the RTS station in the middle of Belgrade blown Sky high?
Why was the Public Utility and Electrical Power Grids blown Sky high?
Why were bridges blown Sky High?
Why was the NIS market place targeted with Illegal Cluster Bombs? (Military Installations were hundreds of miles away)
Are you trying to say NATO made a mistake in destroying the Chinese Embassy in Belgrade???
Over 1000 Serbian and Albanian civilians were killed by NATO bombs. An indictment was launched by a group of European and Canadian Lawyers which was dropped by the Hague Kangaroo Court.
NATO was trying to intimidate the Serbian civilians to overthrow Milosevic because the Serbian Army was untouchable in Kosovo and Serbia.
miri,
Regrettably, you did not read my post carefully.
I stated that “the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family."
You stated “The Albanian language comprises its own independent branch of the Indo-European language family.” The key word is “independent”
If, at any time, the information I share on this site were incorrect, I would not hesitate to apologize and correct my error. This is not one of those times. My statement regarding the Albanian language is correct.
If you are going to teach me something then please use a reputable source. Most educators do not believe Wikipedia to be reliable for obvious reasons.
My source is as follows
http://www.nvtc.gov/lotw/months/february/albanian.html
To Roger7: "For your information the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family. "
Here is another jewel from Roger7, who regularly accuses the others for lack of intelligence.
"For your information the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family."
I wonder whether you have any knowledge on historical linguistic sciences.
But here is the info for your pleasure.
"Albanian was proven to be an Indo-European language in 1854 by the German philologist Franz Bopp. The Albanian language comprises its own independent branch of the Indo-European language family with no living close relatives (even though there are many dialects of Albanian, distant and remote). Most scholars believe that Albanian derives from the Illyrian language[dubious – discuss] while some claim that it derives from Daco-Thracian (Illyrian and Daco-Thracian, however, might have been closely related languages; see Thraco-Illyrian)."
For more info follow the link
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albanian_language#Classification
"Which means the pilots "t
they themselves" decided not to drop bombs on civillians! What is so hard to understand?
Can you imagine what kind of people nato are when they were ordering pilots to attack civillians/civillian targets? "
Well it is really hard for me to understand that a NATO pilot was ordered to drop bombs on civilians. It is really hard for me to understand that there are some people like you and Kate that claim such things while in the same time denying whole-hearted the testimonies of almost 1 million people of attrocities of Serbian army against civilians in Kosovo.
How many civilians were killed or how many left their homes in Serbia (excluding K-Albanians in Kosovo)because of the bombing. If your numbers come out to be higher than 10000 civilians killed and 1 million leaving their homes than I buy your arguments. Well you get my point.
Prodi has put a good foot forward. Candidate status has benefits without the mandatory drawbacks (tough economic decisions) that membership will have. Actual membership is a long way from being realized.
Kosovo will make everything harder in the immediate circumstance and the future, given its long-standing poor economic record. As for this proposal, if this were to happen, Kosovo Albanians would leave in a massive migration - eventually being returned by force. For that reason, Prodi's proposal won't go anywhere.
The serb camp seem to be completely misinformed about anything.
1.Albanian is a language spoken by about 7-8 million people, primarily in Albania and Kosovo, but also in other parts of the Balkans with an Albanian population (parts of the Republic of Macedonia, and some parts in Montenegro and Serbia), along the eastern coast of Italy and in Sicily, as well as by a significant diaspora in Greece, Scandinavia, Germany, the United Kingdom, Egypt, Australia, Turkey, and the United States. The language forms its own distinct branch of the Indo-European language family.
2. Switching names all the time, from Kosova to: Kosovo, Metohija, KiM, koset. Serbia to srbija.
3. Kosova wouldn't give up independence for EU. 1st Independent, than join the EU.
Princip did you know that under Italian rule Albania and Kosova were united all the way to Mitrovica as a "greater albania." This happened in the last decades.
Jovan, so the Kosovars during that time, under serbian rule were able to do all that?
Stop trying to persuade albanians as a backwards people with intentions of terrorism.
Look at your own country.
-Protects War Criminals (Terrorists)
-Oppresses minorities
-Starts wars
-Uses genocide for hopes of greater serbia
-threatens USA/NATO/EU
-calls everyone a terrorist except itself.
Stop the bs, the guiltiest people on this side of the earth are the serbs.
Kate:
"Even those who were totally anti-Serbian during 1999 did not necessarily agree with Nato's barbarity against civilians."
Nice foronce to be able to agree with Kate. I'm one of those she refers to.
I hoped that the KLA couldhave got enough arms to give Serbia'sparamilitary thugs a bloody nose though. That would have been a better way to defend the Albanians under attack than cluster bombing Nis hospital or destroying bridges on the Danube, 100's of miles north of Kosova.
KS said..."Roger, I posted that stuff not Miri".
You, as well as miri, posted "that stuff". You were incorrect in your attempt to find fault with my post.
Read post #28 please.
I personally agree with you Olf and would like to agree with Mr. Prodi. There is the need for more freedom of movement for Serbian citizens. Those Visas are archaism in Europe where Serbia has always had its place! That is by offering to all the opportunities to travel and meet other cultures that we will allow Serbian culture to be more open on the world, less “nationalistic”, less aggressive with their neighbors and minorities. However, how to imagine Serbia EU membership in actual situation? This is a lie to us. EU project is about creating peaceful and stable zone in Europe, political and economical close cooperation between neighboring countries, promotion of human right values... EU is an ideal, even if its actual reality might be not so idealistic. There is often miss conception on EU in the region and it is partly the fault of EU promoting only its financial and economical advantages, instead of working on intercultural cooperation first. This not just a club of rich countries, this is a project you have to work for every day, based on complicate compromises between peoples having different cultures, political and religious backgrounds. Serbia in EU, yes if they want to get in, if they want share the EU basic principles, if they accept their neighbors, if they accept to give rights to their minorities... Bulgaria and Romania made it, but they were much more advanced that Serbia on those topics, so the way is still long! Will they accept Albania, Turkey, Croatia EU membership and all sharing the same EU citizenship? The same questions appliy to those last countries also and is matter of daily struggle even for actual EU members. Will they accept their neighbors to travel freely, to set up where they want, to bye houses in Kosovo if they want...? So no hurry! EU is not a magic potion solving all the problems of the regions or we take the risk to weaken even more EU project. Serbians also have to want to help themselves first! Kick out this Kostunica and all those fascists from power first and fight for a better life! Good luck!
I'm suprise as to how some are interpreting this news. The reason why Prodi suggested this, was becasue he know that independence of Kosovo in imminent, and there he wants to create stronger ties between EU and Serbia, so serbia doesn't become radicalized and and 'mini Russia'. The aim of this proposal is to soften the blow of independnece, soften the anger of serbs, and soften the resistance of Belgrade.
Blacky for you info, Serbia causing a blockade of Kosovo would be a good thing since it would stop all the illegal contraband and trade- and it would lead to better economic ties with Albania and Macedonia as and UNMIK official recently said ' They would welcome that move;. Personaly I hope Serbia does do that.
And as far as albanians wanting to be in Serbia if Serbia was in EU - you are very wrong, my friend. We would not accept under any circumstances to be with Serbia.
and while I think that maybe giving Serbia some incevites (Eu candidate) could bring it closed to the 21st, as century away from 1389, as long as Serbia had such a destrucitve policy towards Kosovo, it will never be able to join.
So even though they aren't saying it directly, everybody knows that its a choice between EU and Kosovo (which is lost anyway).
The truth is that Serbia could get and ask for major benefits if its willing to compromise on Kosovo, however with pro russian poltiicans such as DSS, i doubt it. Its a shame that some of you fail to see the harm that you are casuing to youself.
I would like to agree with Mr.Prodi idea. If Bulgaria and Romania made it into EU Serbia can be there too. However, Serbia has to work more intensively on this matter themselves, it is not enough just EU countries to contribute to Serbia membership. Hurdles to overcome are the status of Kosova and surrender of Serbia war heroes for start and change of the current politicians.
Prodi represents just one country of the EU but it is highly positive that Italy courts Serbian membership of the EU so passionately and I am sure it has been thanked by the Serbian governemnt.
Clearly the Italians are close to the region have a far better understanding of regional politics then say the UK who in the past blindly followed US foreign policy with no consideration of consequences. Those who believe the Italians would go the Illegal route best think again and are only too aware that the Germans have laready distanced themselves from such an abrupt and aggressive action against international norms, laws and obligations.
Yesterday, Princip made the following comment in response to another poster on the "Spanish Press" article:
Gjon, I take it you don't wish to be part of the EU when the Serbia is admitted?
So now we have the final solution for Kosovo-
Admit Serbia to the EU, whereupon all the Albanians of Kosovo will flood into Germany, France, Britain with their shiny new passports. Albanian archeologists will start "discovering" Bronze Age artifacts which "prove" that Northern Europe is the original home of the Illyrian people, and that the ancient tribe of the Franks were actually descended from the Illyrian chieftain Prenk Francusi. Then, of course, a movement for an autonomous Albanian region will commence along with the formation of the North Dardania Liberation Army followed by kidnappings, assasinations and terrorism and so on and so forth. The problem will be for Brussels to deal with, and in the end, Kosovo will remain Serbian.
Oh yes Olf there can be conditions just Bulgaria and Romania has when they made it to the EU. I am sure if this is addressed this will be settled. But if will Kosovo or Kosova be invited as quickly as Serbia. Once the status is determined all of those skilled young people will jump to the EU contries if they can and work. Leaving Kosovo in there wake.
Very interesting idea. Think about it. Serbia in the EU would then be a very difficult problem for the Kosovar Albanians. Imagine being offered a chance to be in an EU country, with full autonomy, all the perks of being in the EU. WOuld they want to be independent then? I don't think so. Why? Because when it comes down to it, they will realize that Serbia would cut off all borders with them, deprive them of the UN vote with Russian support, and cause Kosovo to end up being the poorest state in Europe. OR, they could be in an EU country soon. An article recently even went into how the ALbanians in Kosovo are applying for Serbian passports because of the special benefits. They say they don't want to do it, but they have to. So the question is... would they feel the same if Serbia (along with Kosovo) enters the EU?
The idea of granting Serbia EU membership quickly would solve the problem. Only extremists in Kosovo would be against it, but eventually the ALbanians will start to turn against each other and in the end I think they will realize staying within Serbia is the wisest move. Sort of how this whole problem started... you know, the mass exodus from Albania during the communist days in order to live a better life in Serbia.
who is naive here?
Prodi said for Serbia to join EU, not Kosova. EU treats these two entities seperate remember? We (Kosova) will join EU when we are ready, better slow but sure than fast and to be a burden to the EU.
I read this news from Albanian sources.There was a little difference in Prodi's statement. All good things will happen to Serbia if
(and only if) the Serbs accept Kosova's independence. This is not mentioned here.But even if this condition was not put foward still Serbia geografically is in Europa and will one day be part of the union. I doubt that day will be ahead of Kosova. Serbia's advantages to reach the union are not significant compared to Kosova. Not any particular industry that makes Europa eager to take Serbia.The economy you have needs new technology since the existing one is outdated.
"Clearly the Italians are close to the region have a far better understanding of regional politics then say the UK who in the past blindly followed US foreign policy with no consideration of consequences", said one of bloggers. How soon serbia forgets that Aviano Base was the primary military base for bombing serbia. Italy is much closer to Albania and its culture including the language. rather that serbia which far way and and chyrilic language is is different like day and night. Prodi is just playing political games, that is all folks.
kate FYI NATO targets weren’t civilian
"Bad example. The pilots often returned having not dropped their bombs because like any sane person they were so against bombing civilians."
I wish serbian army, police, paramilitary and terrorist groups were sane too, but they never failed to miss an opportunity to bomb and massacre Albanian civilians( we all know kate doesn’t care about Albanian civilians)
What is not highlited in the article is that the candidate EU accession status for Serbia is linked to the Kosovo independence recognition by Belgrade. Mr.
Prodi has clearly said that Serbian government should see the situation as a bargain.
Someone wrote: "Albanian archeologists will start "discovering" Bronze Age artifacts which "prove" that Northern Europe is the original home of the Illyrian people, and that the ancient tribe of the Franks were actually descended from the Illyrian chieftain Prenk Francusi. Then, of course, a movement for an autonomous Albanian region will commence along with the formation of the North Dardania Liberation Army followed by kidnappings, assasinations and terrorism and so on and so forth. The problem will be for Brussels to deal with, and in the end, Kosovo will remain Serbian."
You forgot to mention that we will bribe the Super Power of the day to bomb northern Europe into submission.
Apart form bganon, nikshala and chris EU citizen that base Serbia prosperity in changes of the Serbian political scene the rest of posts base the prosperity on keeping Kosova inside Serbia. EU politicians are telling regional politicians that they don’t want to deal politics of hate and that hate politics are not welcomed in EU.
Some of you mention that Kosova is to be traded for EU membership. If Serbia with these politicians trades Kosova with EU membership than I believe that Serbia nation will the biggest looser of all. Entering EU with this politicians would be a nightmare for Serbia.
For gods sake Serbs in Serbia, change them and start requesting a better life ”Bolji zivot” ...
hello!
ive been reading alot of serbian news on various sites so i believe in conclusion what should be done is
-mladic to be found which is important look the only way forward is for mladic to be found because serbia is suffering
- kosovo needs to be serbian if not instability will arise in the balkans and europe will not accept that
- i think america will jump ship because kosovo status wont be reslove so the next president of America will decide the status if Bush does resolve it expect instability!
- Eu needs to accept serbia leaving it behind this long is holding the Eu back remember if turkey can get accepted in the Eu which is geographically not in the European region why cant serbia be in Eu! and to people who say because of the political reasons do you think Romania is in a better situation than Serbia!
ok mladic needs to be found. the people in kosovo need to be sorted out i.e. corruption and bad buys need to be kicked out this includes both cultures but remember KOSOVO with a O at the end is serbian and always will be!!! Also Serbia needs to be granted in Eu as soon as possible
thanks and get job serbia! (im a serbian croatian hertiage and live in australia so im from a neutral perspective) :)
What Kate was trying to explain is that often planes came back with their bomb. Which means the pilots "they themselves" decided not to drop bombs on civillians! What is so hard to understand?
Can you imagine what kind of people nato are when they were ordering pilots to attack civillians/civillian targets?
To Roger7: "For your information the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family. "
Here is another jewel from Roger7, who regularly accuses the others for lack of intelligence.
"For your information the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family."
I wonder whether you have any knowledge on historical linguistic sciences.
But here is the info for your pleasure.
"Albanian was proven to be an Indo-European language in 1854 by the German philologist Franz Bopp. The Albanian language comprises its own independent branch of the Indo-European language family with no living close relatives (even though there are many dialects of Albanian, distant and remote). Most scholars believe that Albanian derives from the Illyrian language[dubious – discuss] while some claim that it derives from Daco-Thracian (Illyrian and Daco-Thracian, however, might have been closely related languages; see Thraco-Illyrian)."
For more info follow the link
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albanian_language#Classification
Credit to Mr Prodi for not just making friendly statements on the EU issue in public but actually working behind closed doors to help Serbia.
However, I'd warn those that think that accelerated membership of the EU is doable that it is not a realistic option.
The reality is that unless the next membership countries are delayed from getting in (Croatia etc) Serbia will not be able to ready its economy in time. Its not merely a matter of signing on the dotted line or indeed of handing over Ratko Mladic.
A number of industries in Serbia will be forced to close as they will not be economically viable. New jobs will of course replace them in time but the Serbian government will be forced to sack workers, introduce new standards etc. Much of which wont be particularly popular. Looking at Kostunica's past record he doesnt exactly look like the kind of leader who has the courage to do that kind of thing. In other words its highly unlikely that this current government would be the one to enter the EU.
No, history shows that countries usually enter the EU together not as single members. Thus Serbia must hope that opinion prevails in the EU that Croatian membership is delayed until say 2009/2010 and we enter together with Montenegro and Macedonia.
There is also the question of Kosovo - not just status but economically speaking. Reforms must be made there too, much of which has not even begun.
A delay of course would cause a huge backlash in Croatia, not only because of the delay but most would not be able to stomach entering the EU with former Yugoslavia countries.
There is no magic wand but Prodi's input is helpful.
Allt this talk about Ratko Mladic concerning EU membership for Serbia is ridiculous!
I would like the anti serb side to explain to me one thing: Do you really honestly belives that the doors to EU will be closed to Serbia forever if Ratko Mladic is not caught until 2010 when the Hague tribunal ends it works??
Prodi has put a good foot forward. Candidate status has benefits without the mandatory drawbacks (tough economic decisions) that membership will have. Actual membership is a long way from being realized.
Kosovo will make everything harder in the immediate circumstance and the future, given its long-standing poor economic record. As for this proposal, if this were to happen, Kosovo Albanians would leave in a massive migration - eventually being returned by force. For that reason, Prodi's proposal won't go anywhere.
ahmet isufi says..
"Italy is much closer to Albania and its culture including the language. rather that serbia which far way and and chyrilic language is is different like day and night".
What exactly is the "chyrilic language"?
For your information the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family.
Serbo-Croatian belongs to the South Slavic group of the Slavic branch of the Indo-European language family.
Italian belongs to the Romance branch of the Indo-European language family.
The serb camp seem to be completely misinformed about anything.
1.Albanian is a language spoken by about 7-8 million people, primarily in Albania and Kosovo, but also in other parts of the Balkans with an Albanian population (parts of the Republic of Macedonia, and some parts in Montenegro and Serbia), along the eastern coast of Italy and in Sicily, as well as by a significant diaspora in Greece, Scandinavia, Germany, the United Kingdom, Egypt, Australia, Turkey, and the United States. The language forms its own distinct branch of the Indo-European language family.
2. Switching names all the time, from Kosova to: Kosovo, Metohija, KiM, koset. Serbia to srbija.
3. Kosova wouldn't give up independence for EU. 1st Independent, than join the EU.
Princip did you know that under Italian rule Albania and Kosova were united all the way to Mitrovica as a "greater albania." This happened in the last decades.
Jovan, so the Kosovars during that time, under serbian rule were able to do all that?
Stop trying to persuade albanians as a backwards people with intentions of terrorism.
Look at your own country.
-Protects War Criminals (Terrorists)
-Oppresses minorities
-Starts wars
-Uses genocide for hopes of greater serbia
-threatens USA/NATO/EU
-calls everyone a terrorist except itself.
Stop the bs, the guiltiest people on this side of the earth are the serbs.
"Which means the pilots "t
they themselves" decided not to drop bombs on civillians! What is so hard to understand?
Can you imagine what kind of people nato are when they were ordering pilots to attack civillians/civillian targets? "
Well it is really hard for me to understand that a NATO pilot was ordered to drop bombs on civilians. It is really hard for me to understand that there are some people like you and Kate that claim such things while in the same time denying whole-hearted the testimonies of almost 1 million people of attrocities of Serbian army against civilians in Kosovo.
There are 7 CEFTA countries with a total population of 30 million people( equal to Bulgaria and Romania).5(Bosnia,Serbia,Macedonia,Moldova,Montenegro) of these countries have separatist/secessionist movements(Croatia does not because it ethnically cleansed its Serbs and Albania is for the most part homogenous)and the EU must come up with a plan which will sideline the secessionists.Most people are not political and even in democratic countries more than half do not even bother to vote but in secessionist regions of the world it is extremists who scream the loudest with their threats of violence and therefore get all the attention so the quiet majority is intimidated into silence.The EU can accept all 7 CEFTA countries tomorrow and I guarantee you there will not be any negative overall economic consequences for the EU as a whole.Certain provisions may need to temporarily be in place in some areas of economic life in these 7 countries but the best immediate benefit can be the free movement of people.As far as Kosovo is concerned it is obvious that Serbia will never give up its legal deed which it obtained back in 1912 before Yugoslavia even existed and the drawing of pseudo administrative/political lines by the Communists in order to strip Serbia of its territory.The legalist Europeans understand that Serbia's property rights claim will eventually be upheld in a European court of law if no UNSC Resolution granting Kosovo independence is adopted and for this reason the Europeans should start sidelining the secessionists and take the EU inclusiveness message directly to the masses in Kosovo by telling the people that the only way they will enter the EU is with a Serbian passport today tomorrow and for the next 100 years.Shalom
"Princip did you know that under Italian rule Albania and Kosova were united all the way to Mitrovica as a "greater albania." This happened in the last decades.
(KS, 14. September 2007 18:58)"
you only forgot to mention that this happened while Albanians sided with NAZI-Germany and fascist Italy, and that you killed and drove out the non-albanian population.
we all know why you have not mentioned that! but, even avoiding the truth will not help you to get away with illegal aggression!
miri - Even Nato admitted that they hit civilian targets. Michael Short and Wesley Clark both referred to making life unbearable for all Serbs in their daily lives so they would rise up against Milosevic.
Bombing innocent people doesn't help innocents who were vicitims of atrocities. Do you think the boy (Albanian, but it's irrelevant) whose family died in the refugee column when it was bombed by Nato was 'grateful'? No death of civilians is acceptable, and that includes those caused by Nato.
You are naive in the extreme if you think that satellites can pinpoint a house number from space, but can't tell that they are hitting a maternity ward, passenger train, embassy, schools... the list goes on. By the way, knocking out power grids is also hitting civilian infrastructure, as is poisoning water sources.
It was a well-known fact that pilots were returning to the Aviano base with their bombs rather than dropping them. The Spanish and Italians had senior military people against the bombing who were sympathetic to asking their pilots to commit war crimes.
Even those who were totally anti-Serbian during 1999 did not necessarily agree with Nato's barbarity against civilians. You assume that if people empathised with the Albanians they couldn't also empathise with Serbs. People are people.
Well it is really hard for me to understand that a NATO pilot was ordered to drop bombs on civilians. (miri, 14 September 2007, 17:15)
Are you seriously trying to say that NATO was trying to avoid civilian targets?
Why was a civilian bus in Kosovo blown sky high?
Why was the RTS station in the middle of Belgrade blown Sky high?
Why was the Public Utility and Electrical Power Grids blown Sky high?
Why were bridges blown Sky High?
Why was the NIS market place targeted with Illegal Cluster Bombs? (Military Installations were hundreds of miles away)
Are you trying to say NATO made a mistake in destroying the Chinese Embassy in Belgrade???
Over 1000 Serbian and Albanian civilians were killed by NATO bombs. An indictment was launched by a group of European and Canadian Lawyers which was dropped by the Hague Kangaroo Court.
NATO was trying to intimidate the Serbian civilians to overthrow Milosevic because the Serbian Army was untouchable in Kosovo and Serbia.
How many civilians were killed or how many left their homes in Serbia (excluding K-Albanians in Kosovo)because of the bombing. If your numbers come out to be higher than 10000 civilians killed and 1 million leaving their homes than I buy your arguments. Well you get my point.
miri,
Regrettably, you did not read my post carefully.
I stated that “the Albanian language does not belong to any branch of the Indo-European language family."
You stated “The Albanian language comprises its own independent branch of the Indo-European language family.” The key word is “independent”
If, at any time, the information I share on this site were incorrect, I would not hesitate to apologize and correct my error. This is not one of those times. My statement regarding the Albanian language is correct.
If you are going to teach me something then please use a reputable source. Most educators do not believe Wikipedia to be reliable for obvious reasons.
My source is as follows
http://www.nvtc.gov/lotw/months/february/albanian.html
Kate:
"Even those who were totally anti-Serbian during 1999 did not necessarily agree with Nato's barbarity against civilians."
Nice foronce to be able to agree with Kate. I'm one of those she refers to.
I hoped that the KLA couldhave got enough arms to give Serbia'sparamilitary thugs a bloody nose though. That would have been a better way to defend the Albanians under attack than cluster bombing Nis hospital or destroying bridges on the Danube, 100's of miles north of Kosova.
KS said..."Roger, I posted that stuff not Miri".
You, as well as miri, posted "that stuff". You were incorrect in your attempt to find fault with my post.
Read post #28 please.
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