Serbia's diplomatic offensive under way

EA - in which case why are the Serbian Albanians from the Serbian province as re-affirmed by 1244 attending "negotiation" talks with the key objective of finding a "compromise" that the EU, US & Russia have said is the best solution?

Get ready fo rthe talks and be prepared to negotiate.

He (Tadic) said and stressed that Belgrade's main message would be that Serbia did not wish to abandon its sovereignty and territorial integrity over Kosovo, but that it wished to reach a compromise solution."
That is why Tadic and his government has got all things wrong. There is no compromise when it comes to sovereinity. Serbia has lost phisically Kosova since 1999 and has no influence whatsoever. Serbia was forced to lose Kosova and now that has nothing to do with the Serbian "offer" of substantial autonomy. That so-called offer is out of date, not realistic and sounds like a joke. Once upon a time, the Kosovar Albanians had the autonomy and everyone knows what happened to it. Kosovar Albanians are offering a 21st century solutions and that means full independence and Frindship Pact with Serbia.

Albanians have to realise one thing sooner rather than later if they want any hope of better life. In 1999 Serbia hasn't lost Kosovo but entrusted UN to administer it until right conditions are met for reintegration. In 1999 Albanians haven't gained Kosovo and they don't run Kosovo today nor will they ever do.
And a clarification to all Albanians, a 21st century solution is a union rather than a separation. Personally I think the best solution for a start would be a union between Serbia and Albania.

Teni,

you should think about what python suggests. In fact the whole Western Balkans could do with more focus on working as a group - surely that is the reasoning behind the CEFTA and the more importantly EU accession.

Coming from a neutral perspective (being neither Serb nor Albanian), I have to say that the Serbian side is being more flexible. I wish the Albanians would try to do the same thing... try to reach a consensus, rather than demanding something like an angry child.

It is completely understandable why they wish for independence, the behaved disgustingly towards them and that is unforgivable, however, the Kosovar Albanians are currently behaving in EXACTLY the same way towards the Kosovar Serbs! So now how do you approach this? Who is right and who is wrong? Neither! There must be compromize!

George Bush and Condoleeza Rice are quite obviously no experts on the joint history of the Serbs and the Albanians, so they should not be so quick to impose such a rash opinion. In this case Russia (who has a terrible record in terms of human rights) is right by trying to allow for a compromize.

What the Kosovo Albanians need to realize is that if Kosova is ever given independence and if they ever join the EU, they cannot have their way by demanding and imposing things on anyone! The EU policies are based on consensus of the members, something Serbia is doing more in this case.

Once again, I wish for there to be a compromize that will allow for peace in the region! All the best for both Albanians and Serbs!

I can assure all readers including b92 that no where is written on 1244 Resolution ,the term being used by some posters here;"Serbian Albanians". It seems to me that some poster love to incite hatred and I think is very offensive in nature.

Agim - "I can assure all readers including b92 that no where is written on 1244 Resolution ,the term being used by some posters here;"Serbian Albanians". It seems to me that some poster love to incite hatred and I think is very offensive in nature."

If Kosovo is part of Serbia (and it is at the moment) then you are as much a Serbian Albanian as an American Italian or Canadian Serb.

I understand that you don't like this label because you don't perceive yourself to be part of Serbia, but the description is certainly no more provocative than continual references to Kosovo as 'Kosova'. That is very provocative and actually factually inaccurate.

Of course the status is not a matter for discussion. That's a foregone conclusion. Tadic and Jeremic can put all the positive spin they want on the issue but their 'offensive' will in all likelihood end up like the charge of the light brigade: in tatters.

Python why in th world would Albania want to join Serbia? We did our best to help Kosova get away let alone us joining! You lost Kosova whether you want to admit or not and whether you call it a 19th or 21st century solution. The result doesn't change.

Dear all,
Firstly I have no intention to offend anyone.

Just for clarification
Serbia didn’t loose Kosova because you can’t loose something which was never yours.

Python,
You wrote: ‘And a clarification to all Albanians, a 21st century solution is a union rather than a separation. Personally I think the best solution for a start would be a union between Serbia and Albania.’
Kosova is not separating but is being freed from Serbia’s occupation.
In relation to your suggestion about union between Albania and Serbia- You must be daydreaming, but I know you would like to have access to Adriatic.

Princip,
Wou wrote: ‘you should think about what python suggests. In fact the whole Western Balkans could do with more focus on working as a group - surely that is the reasoning behind the CEFTA and the more importantly EU accession.’
I know you would like Python suggestion- A nice dream nothing more
I have nothing against Western Balkans working as a group (Kosova is willing to have good relations with all neighbors including Serbia) and I am sure we could all achieve more but Serbia have to stop trying to dominate everyone else.

Princip,
Let me answer your questions
"Why are the Serbian Albanians from the Serbian province as re-affirmed by 1244 attending "negotiation" talks with the key objective of finding a "compromise" that the EU, US & Russia have said is the best solution?
This so-called negotiations are purely to bring Russia on board to achieve a desirable solution through the Security Council. I found it quite amusing when you call Kosovar Albanians Serbian Albanians. You are making them a great "honour". Secondly,during this "negotiations" the Kosovar Albanians will have another chance to tell to the Serbian Government that the Independence and the Sovereignity of Kosova is unquestionalbe. Thirdly, to present to the international community a way forward through an Friendship Pact between Serbia and Kosova as to independent states.
To summirise no "compromise" with Serbian government when it come to Sovereignity of Kosova. It is not realistic, unworkable and old-fashined.

EA,

Please write KosovO. That's the English word for that region.

In Dutch The Netherlands is NEDERLAND. But I use the English word. Please use the English word: KosovO!

Dear Python,
How you can think about Union Albania - Serbia when there are more than 1000 years that they fight each other not to be in one state?
Strange! Anyway the solution will be found and I think that really Serbia should ask to be an indipendent country and to go toward the EU, otherwise is just a wasting of time.
Peace for all and all for peace!

To Kate: "If Kosovo is part of Serbia (and it is at the moment) then you are as much a Serbian Albanian as an American Italian or Canadian Serb. "


American Italians or Canadian Serbs are immigrants, something that, despite your wishing, it cannot apply under any circumstances to K-Albanians.
Furthermore the term "Serbian Albanians" is used simply as a provocation and regardless of frequent statements that these naming is derogatory for albainans you still use and try justify it because of over mentioned reasons.

Ment,

good comment and well thought - this is all I ask that others consider the scenario's through fully to find what is possible or not.

I would be more optomistic and would include the whole region - lock every one in the Westend Balkans into cooperating in order for all to join the EU - i.e. set the standards and make it all possible for themselves not because of the EU ordering it done this way or other.

Like I have said before Win-Win is possible for all if they really want it but any solution that is imposed on one or other leads to instability and will only be a temporary solution which leads to lose-lose for all.

Reconcilation is the key moving forward to win-win but creating borders will pull people onto one side or other of the wall and then we enter frozen conflict situations such as Northern Cyprus which will stop the much required economic development.

Princip: Working as a group is not the same as a union. I have nothing against working with Serbia, in fact I think it would be great, but I don't even want to contemplate a union with Serbia. Any working in group unfortunately cannot be really efective on our part until Kosova becomes independent. And I am afraid that when that happens and when Albania recognizes it, it is Serbia that won't want to work with us anymore. Besides with Serbia moving ever closer to Russia's sphere of influence and us moving towards the West I am afraid the prospects are not great.

It took them a while but French and Germans have finally realised after a long history of conflicts that their union would be the best guarantee against future conflicts and for peace and prosperity. English still have some doubts about fully joining in but they eventually will.
I can see 2 immediate benefits of a union between Serbia and Albania, 1 - Kosovo issue resolved and 2 - Serbs and Albanians put themselves at the forefront for rapid EU accession.

And a clarification to all Albanians, a 21st century solution is a union rather than a separation. Personally I think the best solution for a start would be a union between Serbia and Albania.
(python, 25. September 2007 13:04)

Let me guess, call it Yugoslavia? The southern slavs?

No thanks.

Last time I checked princip you were against any union such as the EUROPEAN UNION. Free trade, one passport, economic expansion. Montenegro ditched you, no Adriatic sea for you my friend, now get those visas out.

I have read the 1244 Resolution and that term is not there, why would you use it. Forget about telling me about American Italian and Canadian serb. This does not wash. America and Canda were formed from immigrants, so you can forget about that.
One question can I call serbs from Kosova ' Albanian serbs", is only fair , don't you think so?

The Washington-sponsored Albanian militants that are trying to annex southern Serbia need to remember that many of the people that they claim to represent are legal Serbian citizens of Albanian origin and would in due course be entitled to the new Serb EU-passports (from March 2008), Serbian health care, free education, normal salaries. A future, basically. The day that the Albanian separatists declare unilateral independence on "their" peoples behalf there is no going back. On that date they permanently renounce their Serb citizenship rights forever while Serbia maintains her legal right (UNSCR 1244) to restore her territorial integrity at the time of her chosing. Therefore a unilateral independence declaration would rid Belgrade of a very big headache, namely the long term legal obligation of integrating up to 1,000,000 legal/illegal Albanian immigrants into Serb society. If this was the best solution for the USA ruling elite (the 20-year Clinton-Bush oligarchy) they would have given the nod to the KLA warlords to declare unilateral independence many years ago.

Kate,
You would agree that there is a difference of referring to a place and referring to a nation.
In this instance, we write Kosov-a rather Kosov-o, purely because for us is Kosova, it’s only a letter after all and you shouldn’t be threatened by this at all and no reason to be offended. I am not threatened or offended when you write Kosovo.

In relation to your comparison in your comment below:
‘If Kosovo is part of Serbia (and it is at the moment) then you are as much a Serbian Albanian as an American Italian or Canadian Serb.’
I would comment but I see it more as I wind up rather then your view therefore I will not comment. I would be very surprised if that is your view though.

"And Peter: Not that I am suggesting anything about your obvious partiality but the mere fact that you are not not Albanian or Serb does not make you impartial.
(teni, 25. September 2007 17:17)"

In all honesty teni, I am impartial. My country, Poland, unequivocally supports the Ahtisaari Plan, myself, I am for peace in Europe, but it is quite clear that autonomy as well as independence will cause animosity on either side, and could very easily slip into conflict again (both sides feel so fiercely about their goals, I doubt it will be solved peacefully).

Wherever the allegiances lie, the fact remains that both sides (I am talking about the average Serbian or Albanian person) are sick and tired of this limbo status of the province, and a solution that satisfies both parties must be found in order for the Balkan pot to simmer. Both parties will have to sacrifice something in order to reach that middle ground, and all I am saying is that Serbia appears to be more flexible with its offers, whilst the Albanian camp appears too rigid in its policy.

Understandably so, I completely understand the Albanian's perspectives, but the Serbia of today is not the Yugoslavia under Milosevic and should not be treated the same.

I hope December the 10th will be the date that both sides are satisfied with an agreement and the Albanians and Serbs coexist peacefully, instead of what they have done since 1998 until now.

Peace for all in the Balkans!

ximi,

The English word is Kosovo. We write in English. So Kosovo. Maybe in French it is: Kosovonia. Then in French write that :)

Kosovo: Recognition Likely From U.S.

"“The game plan is set,” said a senior European diplomat ,.."
"The talks end on Dec. 10. “If there is no sense then that Serbia and Kosovo can agree on the province’s future, then Kosovo will make a unilateral declaration of independence,” he said, adding that “the U.S. will recognize that independence and the Europeans, as far as they can remain united, will follow too.” "

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/25/world/europe/25kosovo.html

Kosovo on Brink of Independence
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1665089,00.html?xid=rss-topstories

Python: I can see something better: Kosova independent and both Kosova and Albania in the EU. That solves the Kosova question anyway.
And Peter: Not that I am suggesting anything about your obvious partiality but the mere fact that you are not not Albanian or Serb does not make you impartial.

To Python: "I can see 2 immediate benefits of a union between Serbia and Albania, 1 - Kosovo issue resolved and 2 - Serbs and Albanians put themselves at the forefront for rapid EU accession."

Python, how can you even contemplate such a possibility when even slav brothers (Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Bosnia in some extent) couldn't do it with Serbia? With all due respect out for your good will(in this post), what you are suggesting is madness.

I would really like to know what Kostunica will do to make it impossible for Kosova to get independence. A compromise the way he wants it is impossible, he does not control Kosova and the US and most of the EU has already decided in favor of independence.
He and all the Serb camp here can argue till they are blue in the face but Kosova is simply gone. All that is left of it is the Ministry which I guess is needed to keep Kostunica's partners happy with jobs and portfolios. There is no such thing as a Serbian Albanian outside of Preseva anymore, there is no such thing as Kosovo and Metohija anymore, they are simply gone.

Python, I dont know if you are a Serbian or something else but obviously you don't know about the history of those 2 countries. Its like asking the wolf and the sheep to live together. I dont want to offend anyone by saying who's the wolff and who's the sheep. I brought this example just to show how much enimacity there is between these 2 nations.
I agree with you when you say that 21st century is about joining and not spliting, but in this case we rae all trying to join the EU and the only way to do so is by spliting from Serbia. It worked for Slovenes, Croats, Macedonians, Montenegrins, so I guess it will perfectly work for K-Albanians also.

Wow, good evening,
So you feel sorry for us for refusing the serbian "paradise"?
Thanks but no thanks.
And who told you that in March serbians will receive EU passports. You must be really living in a dreamworld

Kostunica, here's what's not impossible:

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/09/24/news/balkans.php

Python, Princip

Given the current situation, the idea of a union (I'm assuming some sort of a federal agreement) is definitely a bold one. In theory though, there would be some pretty good reasons for it.

Serbs and Albanians do have a long history of animosity, but who in Europe doesn't? Germany and France have been at each other's throats for nearly as long and they have lost millions of folks in the process in the past century alone. If they can be the best of partners today...why can't we?

I guess both these countries followed the old wisdom "Keep your friends close and your enemies even closer" and it seems to have worked pretty well for them.

A federal arrangement almost doubles the size of the population overnight. Given the way the EU works, that might well translate into more influence in decision making should we join it.

A union would basically put an end to the whole notion of the Western Balkans being "Europe's powderkeg." Great PR (public relations) for the region and with a promise of future stability, great opportunities to attract foreign investment.

A union would basically put both Albanians and Serbs in control of their destinies. For good or bad, Serbia has put itself in the debt of Russia and the Albanians in the debt of the U.S. I personally don't want to be indebted to anyone. It just ties your hands.

In practice however, there are some serious obstacles:

1. It introduces a whole new bag of problems/issues. The politicians in both countries are having a hard time enough implementing simple economic reforms nevermind anything bigger. They're just too inept for this sort of thing.

2. The clock is ticking. Serbia and Albania will probably join the EU in the next 10-20 years (hopefully sooner). A union and all the issues involved would most likely delay the accession process. I don't think that would go down too well with the populations in either country, especially if one side perceives the other as "holding the process back." Nationalism and mutual distrust will not be dead in either country and you can always count on politicians to abuse it.

In my opinion, the idea of a union is not a bad one, but for now, it's probably too much to ask.

As for Kosovo, I'll admit that the likelyhood of another 1999 (in terms of atrocities committed) happening again in the future is fairly small even if Kosovo were to remain part of Serbia (with 95% autonomy). While the Radical Party remains a real danger in my opinion, there is good reason to be optimistic that by and large times have changed.

Having said that, the two entitities have grown too far apart for an effective reintegration to occur. Also, neither side has done anything in the way of reconciliation for the past 8 years... they have only traded insults and hostile rhetoric. To make matters worse, now that Russia, the U.S. and the EU have taken control of the Kosovo issue, it's very unlikely that politicians from either side (Serb and Albanian) would dare defy their "masters" even if they were in the mood to find a compromise (which they aren't). This game is not just about Kosovo anymore.

The end result, will probably be independence for Kosovo. Serbia will probably a wounded pride, while the Kosovo Albanians will face all the challenges of running a country with big social and economic problems while taking orders from a foreign body (and EU appointed tzar).

It will be rough going for both sides.

Kosovo and Metohija is the true and proper name. KiM Albanians might be a more appropriate term that the KiM Albanians are comfortable with. (It's not just one letter, anymore.)

At the risk of sounding like a broken record:

Federalize Kosovo. Give recognition for a Serbian Republic of Kosovo and Metohija within an independent Kosovo.

That's your compromise.

I have suggestion regarding a compromise solution about the name ... is just a letter and is causing so many discontents because apparently it means a lot. Referring to a wellknown professor of mine from Belgrade(avoiding to use his name in this forum) let;s call it Kosov@... and let everyone sound it as he/she feels. Is a good start

gjipeja,

That's the spirit we need: humor and fun.

What aout Kosov@Serbia :)

Kosovo should be to Serbia what Hong Kong is to China. I think that is the best solution.

In fact, why not re-draw Kosovo's borders so that the Presevo valley is part of Kosovo, but territory to the north of the Ibar River is not?

The solution is simple. A partition along ethnic lines, and a Hong-Kong style status would be the best solution for all concerned.

"One question can I call serbs from Kosova ' Albanian serbs", is only fair , don't you think so?
(Agim Elshani, 25. September 2007 17:16)"

I can understand Agim Elshani for playing around with words and meanings...it´s an emotional issue for him, since he has been taught to be an descendant of the "illyrians"...even if there is no connection whatsoever between todays Albanians and the Illyrians, but that doesn´t count since it is their only justification for their demands...

but since you are living in Serbia, talking about albanian Serbs would only be ridiculous and show your feelings... do it if you want, but no one in the world will understand what you want to say by using this term...
in the end it´s your problem wheter you are being understood by others or not.

He (Tadic) said and stressed that Belgrade's main message would be that Serbia did not wish to abandon its sovereignty and territorial integrity over Kosovo, but that it wished to reach a compromise solution."
That is why Tadic and his government has got all things wrong. There is no compromise when it comes to sovereinity. Serbia has lost phisically Kosova since 1999 and has no influence whatsoever. Serbia was forced to lose Kosova and now that has nothing to do with the Serbian "offer" of substantial autonomy. That so-called offer is out of date, not realistic and sounds like a joke. Once upon a time, the Kosovar Albanians had the autonomy and everyone knows what happened to it. Kosovar Albanians are offering a 21st century solutions and that means full independence and Frindship Pact with Serbia.

Of course the status is not a matter for discussion. That's a foregone conclusion. Tadic and Jeremic can put all the positive spin they want on the issue but their 'offensive' will in all likelihood end up like the charge of the light brigade: in tatters.

I can assure all readers including b92 that no where is written on 1244 Resolution ,the term being used by some posters here;"Serbian Albanians". It seems to me that some poster love to incite hatred and I think is very offensive in nature.

Dear all,
Firstly I have no intention to offend anyone.

Just for clarification
Serbia didn’t loose Kosova because you can’t loose something which was never yours.

Python,
You wrote: ‘And a clarification to all Albanians, a 21st century solution is a union rather than a separation. Personally I think the best solution for a start would be a union between Serbia and Albania.’
Kosova is not separating but is being freed from Serbia’s occupation.
In relation to your suggestion about union between Albania and Serbia- You must be daydreaming, but I know you would like to have access to Adriatic.

Princip,
Wou wrote: ‘you should think about what python suggests. In fact the whole Western Balkans could do with more focus on working as a group - surely that is the reasoning behind the CEFTA and the more importantly EU accession.’
I know you would like Python suggestion- A nice dream nothing more
I have nothing against Western Balkans working as a group (Kosova is willing to have good relations with all neighbors including Serbia) and I am sure we could all achieve more but Serbia have to stop trying to dominate everyone else.

Python why in th world would Albania want to join Serbia? We did our best to help Kosova get away let alone us joining! You lost Kosova whether you want to admit or not and whether you call it a 19th or 21st century solution. The result doesn't change.

EA - in which case why are the Serbian Albanians from the Serbian province as re-affirmed by 1244 attending "negotiation" talks with the key objective of finding a "compromise" that the EU, US & Russia have said is the best solution?

Get ready fo rthe talks and be prepared to negotiate.

Dear Python,
How you can think about Union Albania - Serbia when there are more than 1000 years that they fight each other not to be in one state?
Strange! Anyway the solution will be found and I think that really Serbia should ask to be an indipendent country and to go toward the EU, otherwise is just a wasting of time.
Peace for all and all for peace!

Princip: Working as a group is not the same as a union. I have nothing against working with Serbia, in fact I think it would be great, but I don't even want to contemplate a union with Serbia. Any working in group unfortunately cannot be really efective on our part until Kosova becomes independent. And I am afraid that when that happens and when Albania recognizes it, it is Serbia that won't want to work with us anymore. Besides with Serbia moving ever closer to Russia's sphere of influence and us moving towards the West I am afraid the prospects are not great.

Kosovo: Recognition Likely From U.S.

"“The game plan is set,” said a senior European diplomat ,.."
"The talks end on Dec. 10. “If there is no sense then that Serbia and Kosovo can agree on the province’s future, then Kosovo will make a unilateral declaration of independence,” he said, adding that “the U.S. will recognize that independence and the Europeans, as far as they can remain united, will follow too.” "

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/25/world/europe/25kosovo.html

Kosovo on Brink of Independence
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1665089,00.html?xid=rss-topstories

And a clarification to all Albanians, a 21st century solution is a union rather than a separation. Personally I think the best solution for a start would be a union between Serbia and Albania.
(python, 25. September 2007 13:04)

Let me guess, call it Yugoslavia? The southern slavs?

No thanks.

Last time I checked princip you were against any union such as the EUROPEAN UNION. Free trade, one passport, economic expansion. Montenegro ditched you, no Adriatic sea for you my friend, now get those visas out.

To Kate: "If Kosovo is part of Serbia (and it is at the moment) then you are as much a Serbian Albanian as an American Italian or Canadian Serb. "


American Italians or Canadian Serbs are immigrants, something that, despite your wishing, it cannot apply under any circumstances to K-Albanians.
Furthermore the term "Serbian Albanians" is used simply as a provocation and regardless of frequent statements that these naming is derogatory for albainans you still use and try justify it because of over mentioned reasons.

I have read the 1244 Resolution and that term is not there, why would you use it. Forget about telling me about American Italian and Canadian serb. This does not wash. America and Canda were formed from immigrants, so you can forget about that.
One question can I call serbs from Kosova ' Albanian serbs", is only fair , don't you think so?

Python: I can see something better: Kosova independent and both Kosova and Albania in the EU. That solves the Kosova question anyway.
And Peter: Not that I am suggesting anything about your obvious partiality but the mere fact that you are not not Albanian or Serb does not make you impartial.

Kate,
You would agree that there is a difference of referring to a place and referring to a nation.
In this instance, we write Kosov-a rather Kosov-o, purely because for us is Kosova, it’s only a letter after all and you shouldn’t be threatened by this at all and no reason to be offended. I am not threatened or offended when you write Kosovo.

In relation to your comparison in your comment below:
‘If Kosovo is part of Serbia (and it is at the moment) then you are as much a Serbian Albanian as an American Italian or Canadian Serb.’
I would comment but I see it more as I wind up rather then your view therefore I will not comment. I would be very surprised if that is your view though.

Princip,
Let me answer your questions
"Why are the Serbian Albanians from the Serbian province as re-affirmed by 1244 attending "negotiation" talks with the key objective of finding a "compromise" that the EU, US & Russia have said is the best solution?
This so-called negotiations are purely to bring Russia on board to achieve a desirable solution through the Security Council. I found it quite amusing when you call Kosovar Albanians Serbian Albanians. You are making them a great "honour". Secondly,during this "negotiations" the Kosovar Albanians will have another chance to tell to the Serbian Government that the Independence and the Sovereignity of Kosova is unquestionalbe. Thirdly, to present to the international community a way forward through an Friendship Pact between Serbia and Kosova as to independent states.
To summirise no "compromise" with Serbian government when it come to Sovereignity of Kosova. It is not realistic, unworkable and old-fashined.

Agim - "I can assure all readers including b92 that no where is written on 1244 Resolution ,the term being used by some posters here;"Serbian Albanians". It seems to me that some poster love to incite hatred and I think is very offensive in nature."

If Kosovo is part of Serbia (and it is at the moment) then you are as much a Serbian Albanian as an American Italian or Canadian Serb.

I understand that you don't like this label because you don't perceive yourself to be part of Serbia, but the description is certainly no more provocative than continual references to Kosovo as 'Kosova'. That is very provocative and actually factually inaccurate.

To Python: "I can see 2 immediate benefits of a union between Serbia and Albania, 1 - Kosovo issue resolved and 2 - Serbs and Albanians put themselves at the forefront for rapid EU accession."

Python, how can you even contemplate such a possibility when even slav brothers (Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Bosnia in some extent) couldn't do it with Serbia? With all due respect out for your good will(in this post), what you are suggesting is madness.

I would really like to know what Kostunica will do to make it impossible for Kosova to get independence. A compromise the way he wants it is impossible, he does not control Kosova and the US and most of the EU has already decided in favor of independence.
He and all the Serb camp here can argue till they are blue in the face but Kosova is simply gone. All that is left of it is the Ministry which I guess is needed to keep Kostunica's partners happy with jobs and portfolios. There is no such thing as a Serbian Albanian outside of Preseva anymore, there is no such thing as Kosovo and Metohija anymore, they are simply gone.

The Washington-sponsored Albanian militants that are trying to annex southern Serbia need to remember that many of the people that they claim to represent are legal Serbian citizens of Albanian origin and would in due course be entitled to the new Serb EU-passports (from March 2008), Serbian health care, free education, normal salaries. A future, basically. The day that the Albanian separatists declare unilateral independence on "their" peoples behalf there is no going back. On that date they permanently renounce their Serb citizenship rights forever while Serbia maintains her legal right (UNSCR 1244) to restore her territorial integrity at the time of her chosing. Therefore a unilateral independence declaration would rid Belgrade of a very big headache, namely the long term legal obligation of integrating up to 1,000,000 legal/illegal Albanian immigrants into Serb society. If this was the best solution for the USA ruling elite (the 20-year Clinton-Bush oligarchy) they would have given the nod to the KLA warlords to declare unilateral independence many years ago.

Python, I dont know if you are a Serbian or something else but obviously you don't know about the history of those 2 countries. Its like asking the wolf and the sheep to live together. I dont want to offend anyone by saying who's the wolff and who's the sheep. I brought this example just to show how much enimacity there is between these 2 nations.
I agree with you when you say that 21st century is about joining and not spliting, but in this case we rae all trying to join the EU and the only way to do so is by spliting from Serbia. It worked for Slovenes, Croats, Macedonians, Montenegrins, so I guess it will perfectly work for K-Albanians also.

Wow, good evening,
So you feel sorry for us for refusing the serbian "paradise"?
Thanks but no thanks.
And who told you that in March serbians will receive EU passports. You must be really living in a dreamworld

Kostunica, here's what's not impossible:

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/09/24/news/balkans.php

I have suggestion regarding a compromise solution about the name ... is just a letter and is causing so many discontents because apparently it means a lot. Referring to a wellknown professor of mine from Belgrade(avoiding to use his name in this forum) let;s call it Kosov@... and let everyone sound it as he/she feels. Is a good start

Albanians have to realise one thing sooner rather than later if they want any hope of better life. In 1999 Serbia hasn't lost Kosovo but entrusted UN to administer it until right conditions are met for reintegration. In 1999 Albanians haven't gained Kosovo and they don't run Kosovo today nor will they ever do.
And a clarification to all Albanians, a 21st century solution is a union rather than a separation. Personally I think the best solution for a start would be a union between Serbia and Albania.

Teni,

you should think about what python suggests. In fact the whole Western Balkans could do with more focus on working as a group - surely that is the reasoning behind the CEFTA and the more importantly EU accession.

Coming from a neutral perspective (being neither Serb nor Albanian), I have to say that the Serbian side is being more flexible. I wish the Albanians would try to do the same thing... try to reach a consensus, rather than demanding something like an angry child.

It is completely understandable why they wish for independence, the behaved disgustingly towards them and that is unforgivable, however, the Kosovar Albanians are currently behaving in EXACTLY the same way towards the Kosovar Serbs! So now how do you approach this? Who is right and who is wrong? Neither! There must be compromize!

George Bush and Condoleeza Rice are quite obviously no experts on the joint history of the Serbs and the Albanians, so they should not be so quick to impose such a rash opinion. In this case Russia (who has a terrible record in terms of human rights) is right by trying to allow for a compromize.

What the Kosovo Albanians need to realize is that if Kosova is ever given independence and if they ever join the EU, they cannot have their way by demanding and imposing things on anyone! The EU policies are based on consensus of the members, something Serbia is doing more in this case.

Once again, I wish for there to be a compromize that will allow for peace in the region! All the best for both Albanians and Serbs!

It took them a while but French and Germans have finally realised after a long history of conflicts that their union would be the best guarantee against future conflicts and for peace and prosperity. English still have some doubts about fully joining in but they eventually will.
I can see 2 immediate benefits of a union between Serbia and Albania, 1 - Kosovo issue resolved and 2 - Serbs and Albanians put themselves at the forefront for rapid EU accession.

EA,

Please write KosovO. That's the English word for that region.

In Dutch The Netherlands is NEDERLAND. But I use the English word. Please use the English word: KosovO!

At the risk of sounding like a broken record:

Federalize Kosovo. Give recognition for a Serbian Republic of Kosovo and Metohija within an independent Kosovo.

That's your compromise.

Kosovo should be to Serbia what Hong Kong is to China. I think that is the best solution.

In fact, why not re-draw Kosovo's borders so that the Presevo valley is part of Kosovo, but territory to the north of the Ibar River is not?

The solution is simple. A partition along ethnic lines, and a Hong-Kong style status would be the best solution for all concerned.

"And Peter: Not that I am suggesting anything about your obvious partiality but the mere fact that you are not not Albanian or Serb does not make you impartial.
(teni, 25. September 2007 17:17)"

In all honesty teni, I am impartial. My country, Poland, unequivocally supports the Ahtisaari Plan, myself, I am for peace in Europe, but it is quite clear that autonomy as well as independence will cause animosity on either side, and could very easily slip into conflict again (both sides feel so fiercely about their goals, I doubt it will be solved peacefully).

Wherever the allegiances lie, the fact remains that both sides (I am talking about the average Serbian or Albanian person) are sick and tired of this limbo status of the province, and a solution that satisfies both parties must be found in order for the Balkan pot to simmer. Both parties will have to sacrifice something in order to reach that middle ground, and all I am saying is that Serbia appears to be more flexible with its offers, whilst the Albanian camp appears too rigid in its policy.

Understandably so, I completely understand the Albanian's perspectives, but the Serbia of today is not the Yugoslavia under Milosevic and should not be treated the same.

I hope December the 10th will be the date that both sides are satisfied with an agreement and the Albanians and Serbs coexist peacefully, instead of what they have done since 1998 until now.

Peace for all in the Balkans!

ximi,

The English word is Kosovo. We write in English. So Kosovo. Maybe in French it is: Kosovonia. Then in French write that :)

Ment,

good comment and well thought - this is all I ask that others consider the scenario's through fully to find what is possible or not.

I would be more optomistic and would include the whole region - lock every one in the Westend Balkans into cooperating in order for all to join the EU - i.e. set the standards and make it all possible for themselves not because of the EU ordering it done this way or other.

Like I have said before Win-Win is possible for all if they really want it but any solution that is imposed on one or other leads to instability and will only be a temporary solution which leads to lose-lose for all.

Reconcilation is the key moving forward to win-win but creating borders will pull people onto one side or other of the wall and then we enter frozen conflict situations such as Northern Cyprus which will stop the much required economic development.

Kosovo and Metohija is the true and proper name. KiM Albanians might be a more appropriate term that the KiM Albanians are comfortable with. (It's not just one letter, anymore.)

Python, Princip

Given the current situation, the idea of a union (I'm assuming some sort of a federal agreement) is definitely a bold one. In theory though, there would be some pretty good reasons for it.

Serbs and Albanians do have a long history of animosity, but who in Europe doesn't? Germany and France have been at each other's throats for nearly as long and they have lost millions of folks in the process in the past century alone. If they can be the best of partners today...why can't we?

I guess both these countries followed the old wisdom "Keep your friends close and your enemies even closer" and it seems to have worked pretty well for them.

A federal arrangement almost doubles the size of the population overnight. Given the way the EU works, that might well translate into more influence in decision making should we join it.

A union would basically put an end to the whole notion of the Western Balkans being "Europe's powderkeg." Great PR (public relations) for the region and with a promise of future stability, great opportunities to attract foreign investment.

A union would basically put both Albanians and Serbs in control of their destinies. For good or bad, Serbia has put itself in the debt of Russia and the Albanians in the debt of the U.S. I personally don't want to be indebted to anyone. It just ties your hands.

In practice however, there are some serious obstacles:

1. It introduces a whole new bag of problems/issues. The politicians in both countries are having a hard time enough implementing simple economic reforms nevermind anything bigger. They're just too inept for this sort of thing.

2. The clock is ticking. Serbia and Albania will probably join the EU in the next 10-20 years (hopefully sooner). A union and all the issues involved would most likely delay the accession process. I don't think that would go down too well with the populations in either country, especially if one side perceives the other as "holding the process back." Nationalism and mutual distrust will not be dead in either country and you can always count on politicians to abuse it.

In my opinion, the idea of a union is not a bad one, but for now, it's probably too much to ask.

As for Kosovo, I'll admit that the likelyhood of another 1999 (in terms of atrocities committed) happening again in the future is fairly small even if Kosovo were to remain part of Serbia (with 95% autonomy). While the Radical Party remains a real danger in my opinion, there is good reason to be optimistic that by and large times have changed.

Having said that, the two entitities have grown too far apart for an effective reintegration to occur. Also, neither side has done anything in the way of reconciliation for the past 8 years... they have only traded insults and hostile rhetoric. To make matters worse, now that Russia, the U.S. and the EU have taken control of the Kosovo issue, it's very unlikely that politicians from either side (Serb and Albanian) would dare defy their "masters" even if they were in the mood to find a compromise (which they aren't). This game is not just about Kosovo anymore.

The end result, will probably be independence for Kosovo. Serbia will probably a wounded pride, while the Kosovo Albanians will face all the challenges of running a country with big social and economic problems while taking orders from a foreign body (and EU appointed tzar).

It will be rough going for both sides.

gjipeja,

That's the spirit we need: humor and fun.

What aout Kosov@Serbia :)

"One question can I call serbs from Kosova ' Albanian serbs", is only fair , don't you think so?
(Agim Elshani, 25. September 2007 17:16)"

I can understand Agim Elshani for playing around with words and meanings...it´s an emotional issue for him, since he has been taught to be an descendant of the "illyrians"...even if there is no connection whatsoever between todays Albanians and the Illyrians, but that doesn´t count since it is their only justification for their demands...

but since you are living in Serbia, talking about albanian Serbs would only be ridiculous and show your feelings... do it if you want, but no one in the world will understand what you want to say by using this term...
in the end it´s your problem wheter you are being understood by others or not.