Tadić: Kosovo compromise has no alternative

Commenting on U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s statement that Europe should join the United States in backing independence for the Serbian province, Tadić said on Monday in New York that these words put the Albanian side in a situation where they could only wait for December 10 to unilaterally declare independence and look forward to its recognition.
Thanks for understanding Tadic! There will never be a "compromise" when it comes to the Sovereignity of Kosova. A country is either dependent or independent and that includes the Sovereignity. The best solution for Kosova and Serbia is two independent countries and an agreed Friendship Pact between the two which will entail free movement of goods, free movement of people, common policy in fighting crime and corruption and common path to Nato and European Union.

«...encourage the negotiating process, in order to reach a compromise.»

The only compromise possible is independence, and Mr Tadic knows it. Then, why to delay it? After independence, both nations would have the opportunity to address to another as sovereign states and live will be possible again for both Serbs and Albanians.

Mr Tadic seems like a smart guy and no one can blame him for defending his country's interest.
We are all in for a lasting compromise and one form of it could be within the framework of the new state. Now the only person from the Serb camp who agrees with this is not even a Serb.
Intransigence is both sided.
From a normative prospective, Serbia needs to make this concession as the party who bears ultimate responsibility for the war and for what followed.

As first - independence can not (logically) be labeled as "compromise". Compromise is something that is between sovereignty of Serbia and demand for self rule of Albanian minority...Compromised independence is simply logically wrong construct.
And after decades of "obstructions" within Kosovo Albanian population against sovereign state of SFRJ - to put blame for conflict only on Serbia is also logically false.

Well, with all due respect to Ms. Rice experience and education (after all, she is a "kremlinologist", if I remember correctly...) I really doubt her calls should be taken seriously by Europe.

Kosovo issue is not something America to give advice on, especially after US pushed its European allies to share the catastrophy of invading Iraq and starting a war by using lies and half-truths. I do hope that Bruxelles will learn not to ask us, EU people, to jump always when US says so, especially in security issues which are affecting us directly.

And a message for Kosovo Albanians - if US made some promises to you, please address your questions to Washington DC, not to Bruxelles; when my country (Romania) agreed on NATO bombing Serbia, it was done to show solidarity with NATO countries in stopping the Serbian forces' abuses on Kosovo Albanians, NOT to cut the province from Serbia simply because Kosovo Albanians have a delayed 1918-style "national" wake-up and suddenly want their own country in Balkans!

If Kosovo Albanians see things differently, this is their problem, not ours. So, you may proclame unilaterally the Kosovo independence on daily basis after December 10, but don't expect to be accepted and considered as valid, at least not by Romania!

George

Princip:
“No mention of Kosovo & Metohija because when EU foreign Ministers talk of the Republic of Serbia they respect it's sovereignty and that means that the way forward is to the EU for Serbia as a whole. Surely the Serbian Albanians can see that the best way to economic development is by "compromise" and not creating artificial borders.”

I must say I had a different thought of you until now, but this comment disappointed me! Do you think that each time they mention Serbia have to mention Kosova as well. No my friend, in contrary, as regards to EU and Serbia membership you know very well that issue, as hundred times said by EU politicians, is separated with Kosova agenda, and there is no connection on these two completely different issues. Regarding the “Serbian Albanians”, you are free to use any kind of phrases here or elsewhere, but we Albanians were NEVER Serbian’s, and will never be.
Princip, I can assure you, you will witness Kosovas independence very soon, you will witness Kosovas prosperity and welfare, you will also witness, if BG politics continues like this, Serbia disastrous fall into the ’90 waters again. I wouldn’t like to see that, honestly, not because of Serbian politicians, but firstly because of the people of Serbia, and secondly because of the region, as without stabile countries in the region, there is no stability of the region – Balkans.

Princip,

Forgot to add one thing: When EU politicians want to mention Kosova, and to talk about Kosova, they all know the address: PRISHTINA (President Sejdiu, or Prime Minister Ceku) – not BG, as they all know that BG has nothing to do with Kosova any longer.

So, you may proclame unilaterally the Kosovo independence on daily basis "after December 10, but don't expect to be accepted and considered as valid, at least not by Romania! "

Arrogant Romanian. You think you became "European" now? You don't even have the same visa privileges as western Europeans. You are no one to tell Albanians what we should do with our future. From 99, we saw that Serbs are still very hostile, and truthfully they want us dead. In forums they even keeep track of our birth rates etc. I can never live with such people, not alone expect them to govern me. I'm my own boss. If you don't understand this concept you won't be very successful in the EU.
Personally, I don't want Albania-Kosovo to be fully a member of the EU, because we are exchanging one boss for the other. We should participate in Eu events/organisations just to see what's happening but not actually be a part of it. We should be like Switzerland!

So we in Europe should support the join united states view on this problem. OK, suppose we do, what next? Should we support the US view on the war in Iraq also? Should we support the US view of the nesicity to start a war in Iran?
I think that all nato countries that are supporting the US should send THEIR troops to Iraq and possible Iran next year. After all NATO is not a club for only pacifists.

To darkwood dub:

Your idea is really cute, it has some "engineering" approach to it. But not all the possible "test cases" are covered.

What if no K-Albanians votes for being inside Serbia and no Serb votes for independence?

This is actually the most common "test case" which requires some "brute force" approach called INDEPENDENCE.

Well, if anyone truly aims for ...

Dear Serb and Albanians, I know by experience that you don't trust your state organs nor municipal organs, not politicians nor civil servants. You have it hard to trust the man next door. As much as he to trust you.

And why? Yes, you have your reasons... Let's take for example corruption, corruption of all kinds, the way of life in the Balkans - with most people being both givers and takers.

You live in societies where it is an everyday result that common good looses to personal gains.

Dear Serbs and Albanians, I'm sorry to say that in the first place it is nothing and no-one else but you yourself as the greatest obstacle for stability in the Balkans. It is your attitudes, dishonesty, your arrogance combined and supported by willful ignorance, acceptance of corruption, lack of true pride, etc... all these things that unable you to devolop your societies to kind that you honestly would be proud of, a society where you respect others and others respect you; societies where you would have good to live in.

As long as situation stays as today you'll stay accusing others for your misfortunes. And there's no stability in the Balkans.

You need no Americans nor Russians to blame for.

Regardless of whether your view is for independence or not, the United States comments are counter-productive and should not have been said. How can the USA say they support any agreement and then say things that support one side not to talk? The USA has said it's a European issue so they should shut up and let the process unfold. As a backup they are on th eUN Security council. If the Security Council doesn't support independence then the USA should not.

What is a compromise??? If I understand it right, for Mr. Tadic, compromise means that Kosovo will remain a part of Serbia. For the Kosovars it means independence.
My proposal for the solution: Lets have referendums both in Serbia and in Kosovo. If 1%+ of Kosovo Albanians vote for for Kosovo as part of Serbia it should be so. On the other side, if 3%+ of Serbs vote for Kosovo as independent then it should be independent.

"The most important thing is that there’s a general goal in mind – Serbia’s EU integration. Together, we have to work out how we’re going to achieve it," said Plassnik."

No mention of Kosovo & Metohija because when EU foreign Ministers talk of the Republic of Serbia they respect it's sovereignity and that means that the way forward is to the EU for Serbia as a whole. Surely the Serbian Albanians can see that the best way to economic development is by "compromise" and not creating artifical borders.

"As long as situation stays as today you'll stay accusing others for your misfortunes. And there's no stability in the Balkans.

You need no Americans nor Russians to blame for.
(Olli, 26. September 2007 11:40)"

Olli, are you actually talking about the Albanians in the serbian province of KiM, and you have only mentioned the Serbs by mistake, while you wanted to write about the Albnians?

predictor ( the one who at first introduced himself as being an "unbiased Serb" ): you forgot to add that there is no significance at all in addressing to Priština, since it was always the capital of the southern serbian province of KiM... so, I am afraid to disappoint you, but...you are only expressing your wishful thoughts! ...after now even the Vatican supports a solution in accordance with international law...
don´t worry, you will calm down again and some day you will accept it living in Serbia.

"Well, if anyone truly aims for ...

Dear Serb and Albanians, I know by experience that you don't trust your state organs nor municipal organs, not politicians nor civil servants. You have it hard to trust the man next door. As much as he to trust you.

And why? Yes, you have your reasons... Let's take for example corruption, corruption of all kinds, the way of life in the Balkans - with most people being both givers and takers.

You live in societies where it is an everyday result that common good looses to personal gains.

Dear Serbs and Albanians, I'm sorry to say that in the first place it is nothing and no-one else but you yourself as the greatest obstacle for stability in the Balkans. It is your attitudes, dishonesty, your arrogance combined and supported by willful ignorance, acceptance of corruption, lack of true pride, etc... all these things that unable you to devolop your societies to kind that you honestly would be proud of, a society where you respect others and others respect you; societies where you would have good to live in.

As long as situation stays as today you'll stay accusing others for your misfortunes. And there's no stability in the Balkans.

You need no Americans nor Russians to blame for.
(Olli, 26. September 2007 11:40)"

This is the only person I agree with here. The only way Serbia and Kosovo sort out their issues is by themselves.

America, EU and Russia should do no more than mediation. Telling them what to do as if they were children will eventually lead them back to where they started...

Victor,

Your comment is somewhat of an oxymoron. The only compromise cannot be independence as you say, because compromise needs to have more than one possible outcome.

»Your comment is somewhat of an oxymoron. »

It would be an oxymoron, as you say, if I had suggested another alternative or option in the compromise... but I have not.

There is no compromise to be made between independence and another statute for Kosovo. Independence is the only viable solution for both Serbs and Albanians.

Jovan
“predictor ( the one who at first introduced himself as being an "unbiased Serb" ):”

You are wrong as I never introduced myself other than a typical Albanian, and I am very proud of that. I am calmed down, but not willing to live in Serbia regardless of consequences. So forget it. You better use to live in independent Kosova. You should be aware that Serb minority will benefit the most in an independent Kosova, as under international supervision, our authorities will have to do a “positive discrimination” for the Serb minority in the country, based in our Constitution, that for changes of the same one will be required at least 2/3 majority (qualified majority) in a parliament, including 2/3 of minority parliament members, additionally an International that will lead future EU mission will have absolute veto right to Kosovas constitution changes. In this way, your rights are factually guaranteed. So, Jovan, there is nothing to be worried about.

George,
“I do hope that Bruxelles will learn not to ask us, EU people, to jump always when US says so, especially in security issues which are affecting us directly.”

It makes me laugh when I read this: “us, EU people”, Romania and EU, yes, yes, I know you are IN, but factually far away of the real EU, just to remind you a fact that you (and Bulgaria) have joined EU under special conditions, right? Do you know the reason? Let me tell you: because you are IN only thanking to EU external interests, meaning Balkans. I remember 1989-1992 when YU people (including us at that time) went to Romania to sell “jeans”, silken socks, sport shoes etc. that we had enough, while we ate only a chicken meat as there were no other food to be served in a “restaurants”. Even today, my dear friend, take a look around the Romania, as I must tell you that Romania is not only the Bucharest, but take a look other towns and villages. Don’t preach me about the EU.

Predictor,
" Let me tell you: because you are IN only thanking to EU external interests, meaning Balkans."

so you are also anti-Romanian aswell as being against the state your in - one wonders about the type of security that any non-Albanians would really have with such sentiments. More over with comments such as Arlinda's "Personally, I don't want Albania-Kosovo to be fully a member of the EU" one wonders how respectful of the EUMIK operations the Serbian Albanians would be to those who are there to help - but then it is always easier to live in denial and blame everyone else for your self made problems.

Its great to see that our Serbian leaders are formulating a common policy on Kosovo, reflecting the full will of the Serbian populace, and that is that Serbia's borders are indivisible, now and for ever.

Albanians may have extensive self rule in many areas of day to day life, but the title to the land (the land deed), will always belong to Serbia as long as Serbs remain united, and appeal to international law and binding agreements.

Jovan, I believe you're thinking of "corrector", I know I got them confused at first.

Here's a link to Corrector's post.

http://www.b92.net/eng/news/comments.php?nav_id=39688

Break up Kosovo along ethnic lines, split bosnia let everybody join their mother land, republic of srpska to serbia, herceg bosna to croatia, albanian kosovo part to albania and serbian part to serbia and get it over with!! Then after a few decades when the ppl of the balkans cool down maybe we'll all learn to get along. You cant expect the ppl in bosnia to kiss and make up right after a civil war that killed 100,000 ppl and at the same time you can't expect albanians and serbs to kiss and make up right after a civil war. Create new borders, let things cool down and start creating a better life for all ppl of former Yugoslavia.

Jovan,

You asked: "Olli, are you actually talking about the Albanians in the serbian province of KiM, and you have only mentioned the Serbs by mistake, while you wanted to write about the Albanians?"

Jovan, I don't know should I cry or laugh. So, I'm doing both.
Jovan, you are a proof of what I wrote. You only see failures of other people. Go get yourself a mirror and be honest to yourself. You start to see the world as it really is. Yes, for sure it will be a rocky road.

And if you need it written on the wall: I didn't mention Serbs by mistake. I mentioned them intentionally.

Victor,

"The only compromise possible is independence..."

That was your comment. It's because you haven't suggested another alternative or option that makes your comment an oxymoron.

Think about it. Or open a dictionary.

Princip,

I read your comment, but not understood a word, what are you trying to say???

To: arlinda

Dear Arlinda, I see you quote me but you really do not get properly the meaning of my lines...

The key word in my previous post was "unilaterally". ("you [Kosovo Albanians]may proclame unilaterally the Kosovo independence on daily basis after December 10, but don't expect to be accepted and considered as valid, at least not by Romania!")

Therefore, I will not blame you for calling me "arrogant", because it seems that you, as many Kosovo Albanians, (saddly I must say)cannot see nuances between black and white, and everybody should be either on your side, either on Serbian side...

Well, just to make things clear: we Romanians, we respect both Serbs and Albanians - and you may remember this when you sing the Albanian national anthem, because it was composed by a Romanian, Ciprian Porumbescu... But we cannot accept abusive behaviour from one side, after we helped in stopping the other side from abusive behaviour (and I will not only mention supporting NATO bombings on Serbia, but also the fact that we, Romanians, and our friends&neighbours Bulgarians were the ones who denined aerial space access for Russian troops trying to develop their "bridgehead" on Pristina airport, in 1999).

Now, about being "your own boss", I am afraid Kosovo Albanians already denied themselves this option - by joining Americans, and playing on their tune...

As for your lines...
"You think you became "European" now? You don't even have the same visa privileges as western Europeans."

...this really made me laugh. Last Sunday I have returned to Kosovo from Barcelona, after five days there with my wife, typical low-cost tourist visit... Guess what? I didn't even need my passports, only my Romanian national ID card... Of course, Romanians still need visa for US and Canada, but pretty soon this issue will be solved (after all, we joined US in the Iraq adventure...) I wish you, Kosovo Albanians, will be able to do this soon (of course, it make take some more time if you consider you are too good for joining EU, as you suggest).

Last, but not least, you say:
"You are no one to tell Albanians what we should do with our future".

Maybe yes, maybe not. You see, Romania is an older country than Albania (I will not speak of Kosovo yet, since it is still a province, not a country). Consequently, as Americans say, "we have been there, done that, seen this"... Still, we are not interested in explaining the obvious, therefore I was not "telling Albanians what to do with their future", but only offering a hint about the consequences of unilateral declaration of independence of Kosovo, strictly from Romanian poit of view. It's your option to ignore it, no problem.

All the best with the "We should be like Switzerland!" action-plan, sounds interesting!

For predictor:

You answered yourself: indeed, we Romanians, we are IN EU. And proud of that (you are too busy being proud to be Albanians, why should we not be proud of being Europeans?)

Also, it is really fascinating the way you avoid aknowledging the fact that in 1999 Romania and Bulgaria have increased their chances to join NATO and EU by helping NATO to protect you, Albanians, from Milosevic... Should I understand that you did not like that we got involved? (this remember me an old saying - "those you give water when they are thirsty, will spit on you one they are full of water")... Very sad, indeed.

Regarding the "special conditions" for Romanian&Bulgaria joining EU:
I am looking forward to see what will be the conditions setted for Kosovo... Probably, having so much experience in being "conditioned", Romanian and Bulgaria may be asked to help with Kosovo accession conditions, what do you think?

As for the Communism years in Romania, yes, it was tough life, much tougher than in Yugoslavia. But let's see the full half of the glass (those who can): today, Romania is where it is, Yugoslavia simply dissapeared, nobody there are doing great (except Slovenians and maybe Croats, but they are still outside EU)
My question is (a rhetorical one): Who is responsible for YU collapse? Albanians have no contribution at all?! And don't give me the bla,bla,bla with "victims and innocents", I work in Kosovo/ex-Yugoslavia already for years...

See you in EU (maybe)
George

Viking,

That would be fine with me.
But why are we forcing people to stay in Bosnia. And we are forcing people (Serbia) to split their country?

George,
“I do hope that Bruxelles will learn not to ask us, EU people, to jump always when US says so”
“(after all, we joined US in the Iraq adventure...)”

If I am correct these are your word, right? I am quoting you because you are coming in contradiction with your own thoughts, right? (first one from your first comment, second one is from your last replica)

I would really like to hear from you, as one that is working in Kosova (I presume in an international org), what does mean your first “line” and does say the second one?

Regarding the Rumania, I am not talking about communist Romania, but about present Romania as EU member! Living in the High Tech era, we can everyday see the life in Romania, excluding (maybe) Bucharest, it is extremely bad, we can see villages and towns in Romania that looks very bad, with very poor and helpless people living in.

As regards to your rhetorical question “Who is responsible for YU collapse?”, I can actually start the whole history telling you, but I will be very short:
Even thought I didn’t like that, firstly meaning on the “way” that collapsed (meaning war in Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Kosova), you must admit that events in 1981 are one that seriously destabilized, at that time, very stabile YU. After that, year 1989 is the one when Milosevic forcibly took control over Kosova. Other federal units, took this as a serious threat from Serbia, as well, and rapidly started preparations for splitting from YU.

If you know different story, you are more than welcomed to tell me. Just, please, when you say something, remember what you say, as you could say something else, that comes in contradiction to your previous comment.

To Predictor, from George:

“I do hope that Bruxelles will learn not to ask us, EU people, to jump always when US says so”
“(after all, we joined US in the Iraq adventure...)”

Dear Predictor, there is no contradiction.

The first comment is my opinion, as Romanian and EU citizen, about how EU should deal with US demands. That's why I said "I hope...".

The second line is a simple reflection of the reality: indeed, we, Romanians, as other European countries, we joined US (and UK, by the way) in the Iraq adventure. (and it was done before accession into EU, anyway).

I must underline that we were not pushed in this by nobody, it was a matter of showing loialty toward an allied and friendly country, after the September 11 attacks. And a matter of securing future support from US, e.g. in obtaining (in a a reasonable close future), a "no visa needed" regime for Romanian citizens. This is the principle of "give and take", between two countries that are sharing a rather balanced relation. US need us (and others, too...) not only for Iraq, but also (e.g.) for extending their military presence in Eastern Europe and Black Sea area. And US will show their gratitude, hopefully, sooner or later.

You, as a Kosovo Albanian, should understand this logic - after all, it is very similar with the attitude of Kosovo Albanians toward US, although US did not gain much from Kosovo so the relation is quite disbalanced - to use a diplomatic language (I know, the famous Camp Bondsteel ... it is a piece of cake compared with military facilities already made available to Americans in Bulgaria and Romania...)

As about the poor Romania of nowadays, I don't deny that a lot of people are living in bad conditions. Such people are plenty even in US. However, if you relay in judging a country only on what you see on the internet or on TV, it may be tricky (I have worked more than 10 years in TV foreign news, this is an objective professional assessment shared by many TV analysts worldwide). I would give you more credit in assessing Romania's situation if you would have lived in my country at least half of the time I've been living in Kosovo (by the way, not in Pristina, but in Skenderaj/Srbica - maybe you know the area...).

And last but not least, two things to be added:
Poverty is not only a probelm of present, but also of future, because is connected with the respectge country potential. You got the idea about Romania's potential, no need to go into details, OK?
Second, Romania's situation is caused not by war/interethnic conflict, but by Communism - and tehrefore is much easier to address at all levels, including political one. You can check over internet about the current government in Bucharest, with less than 30% support in Parlament seats, but formed by a Romanian party and the Hungarian minority party...
You, in Kosovo, you should take it as an example, as we took the French-German reconciliation model... To wrap-up, economy is one face of a country, there are other things to be considered too (especially when that country applies and it gets into something like EU).

However, Romania's economic situation was something you brought up, with obvious intention to be offensive, since this is something without connection with Kosovo problem. As a matter of fact, seeing Kosovo really scared me, because I was thinking that it cannot be worst, in Europe, than Bosnia-Hertzegovina, in terms of economical development and inter-ethnic hate - and I was wrong, unfortunately.

As about YU collapse, my (rhetorical) question was intended to answer your demeaning comments on how poor Romania was, compared with YU, and to show you that economical prosperity is nothing when nationalistic passions are taking over the minds of the people, regardless their ethnicity. Nevertheless, I wated to stress my opinion that Albanians are sharing a part of the responsibility for the catastroophic outcome, and I see we agree on this issue. This is very good, indeed.

George
PS: To help you focus on the substance of my comments, not on their form (which my be negatively influenced by my non-native speaker English skills): I am (only) 32 years old, I have good memory, and I save my posts for further reference anyway…

Well, with all due respect to Ms. Rice experience and education (after all, she is a "kremlinologist", if I remember correctly...) I really doubt her calls should be taken seriously by Europe.

Kosovo issue is not something America to give advice on, especially after US pushed its European allies to share the catastrophy of invading Iraq and starting a war by using lies and half-truths. I do hope that Bruxelles will learn not to ask us, EU people, to jump always when US says so, especially in security issues which are affecting us directly.

And a message for Kosovo Albanians - if US made some promises to you, please address your questions to Washington DC, not to Bruxelles; when my country (Romania) agreed on NATO bombing Serbia, it was done to show solidarity with NATO countries in stopping the Serbian forces' abuses on Kosovo Albanians, NOT to cut the province from Serbia simply because Kosovo Albanians have a delayed 1918-style "national" wake-up and suddenly want their own country in Balkans!

If Kosovo Albanians see things differently, this is their problem, not ours. So, you may proclame unilaterally the Kosovo independence on daily basis after December 10, but don't expect to be accepted and considered as valid, at least not by Romania!

George

Commenting on U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s statement that Europe should join the United States in backing independence for the Serbian province, Tadić said on Monday in New York that these words put the Albanian side in a situation where they could only wait for December 10 to unilaterally declare independence and look forward to its recognition.
Thanks for understanding Tadic! There will never be a "compromise" when it comes to the Sovereignity of Kosova. A country is either dependent or independent and that includes the Sovereignity. The best solution for Kosova and Serbia is two independent countries and an agreed Friendship Pact between the two which will entail free movement of goods, free movement of people, common policy in fighting crime and corruption and common path to Nato and European Union.

Mr Tadic seems like a smart guy and no one can blame him for defending his country's interest.
We are all in for a lasting compromise and one form of it could be within the framework of the new state. Now the only person from the Serb camp who agrees with this is not even a Serb.
Intransigence is both sided.
From a normative prospective, Serbia needs to make this concession as the party who bears ultimate responsibility for the war and for what followed.

As first - independence can not (logically) be labeled as "compromise". Compromise is something that is between sovereignty of Serbia and demand for self rule of Albanian minority...Compromised independence is simply logically wrong construct.
And after decades of "obstructions" within Kosovo Albanian population against sovereign state of SFRJ - to put blame for conflict only on Serbia is also logically false.

Regardless of whether your view is for independence or not, the United States comments are counter-productive and should not have been said. How can the USA say they support any agreement and then say things that support one side not to talk? The USA has said it's a European issue so they should shut up and let the process unfold. As a backup they are on th eUN Security council. If the Security Council doesn't support independence then the USA should not.

«...encourage the negotiating process, in order to reach a compromise.»

The only compromise possible is independence, and Mr Tadic knows it. Then, why to delay it? After independence, both nations would have the opportunity to address to another as sovereign states and live will be possible again for both Serbs and Albanians.

So we in Europe should support the join united states view on this problem. OK, suppose we do, what next? Should we support the US view on the war in Iraq also? Should we support the US view of the nesicity to start a war in Iran?
I think that all nato countries that are supporting the US should send THEIR troops to Iraq and possible Iran next year. After all NATO is not a club for only pacifists.

"The most important thing is that there’s a general goal in mind – Serbia’s EU integration. Together, we have to work out how we’re going to achieve it," said Plassnik."

No mention of Kosovo & Metohija because when EU foreign Ministers talk of the Republic of Serbia they respect it's sovereignity and that means that the way forward is to the EU for Serbia as a whole. Surely the Serbian Albanians can see that the best way to economic development is by "compromise" and not creating artifical borders.

Princip:
“No mention of Kosovo & Metohija because when EU foreign Ministers talk of the Republic of Serbia they respect it's sovereignty and that means that the way forward is to the EU for Serbia as a whole. Surely the Serbian Albanians can see that the best way to economic development is by "compromise" and not creating artificial borders.”

I must say I had a different thought of you until now, but this comment disappointed me! Do you think that each time they mention Serbia have to mention Kosova as well. No my friend, in contrary, as regards to EU and Serbia membership you know very well that issue, as hundred times said by EU politicians, is separated with Kosova agenda, and there is no connection on these two completely different issues. Regarding the “Serbian Albanians”, you are free to use any kind of phrases here or elsewhere, but we Albanians were NEVER Serbian’s, and will never be.
Princip, I can assure you, you will witness Kosovas independence very soon, you will witness Kosovas prosperity and welfare, you will also witness, if BG politics continues like this, Serbia disastrous fall into the ’90 waters again. I wouldn’t like to see that, honestly, not because of Serbian politicians, but firstly because of the people of Serbia, and secondly because of the region, as without stabile countries in the region, there is no stability of the region – Balkans.

Princip,

Forgot to add one thing: When EU politicians want to mention Kosova, and to talk about Kosova, they all know the address: PRISHTINA (President Sejdiu, or Prime Minister Ceku) – not BG, as they all know that BG has nothing to do with Kosova any longer.

So, you may proclame unilaterally the Kosovo independence on daily basis "after December 10, but don't expect to be accepted and considered as valid, at least not by Romania! "

Arrogant Romanian. You think you became "European" now? You don't even have the same visa privileges as western Europeans. You are no one to tell Albanians what we should do with our future. From 99, we saw that Serbs are still very hostile, and truthfully they want us dead. In forums they even keeep track of our birth rates etc. I can never live with such people, not alone expect them to govern me. I'm my own boss. If you don't understand this concept you won't be very successful in the EU.
Personally, I don't want Albania-Kosovo to be fully a member of the EU, because we are exchanging one boss for the other. We should participate in Eu events/organisations just to see what's happening but not actually be a part of it. We should be like Switzerland!

Well, if anyone truly aims for ...

Dear Serb and Albanians, I know by experience that you don't trust your state organs nor municipal organs, not politicians nor civil servants. You have it hard to trust the man next door. As much as he to trust you.

And why? Yes, you have your reasons... Let's take for example corruption, corruption of all kinds, the way of life in the Balkans - with most people being both givers and takers.

You live in societies where it is an everyday result that common good looses to personal gains.

Dear Serbs and Albanians, I'm sorry to say that in the first place it is nothing and no-one else but you yourself as the greatest obstacle for stability in the Balkans. It is your attitudes, dishonesty, your arrogance combined and supported by willful ignorance, acceptance of corruption, lack of true pride, etc... all these things that unable you to devolop your societies to kind that you honestly would be proud of, a society where you respect others and others respect you; societies where you would have good to live in.

As long as situation stays as today you'll stay accusing others for your misfortunes. And there's no stability in the Balkans.

You need no Americans nor Russians to blame for.

What is a compromise??? If I understand it right, for Mr. Tadic, compromise means that Kosovo will remain a part of Serbia. For the Kosovars it means independence.
My proposal for the solution: Lets have referendums both in Serbia and in Kosovo. If 1%+ of Kosovo Albanians vote for for Kosovo as part of Serbia it should be so. On the other side, if 3%+ of Serbs vote for Kosovo as independent then it should be independent.

To darkwood dub:

Your idea is really cute, it has some "engineering" approach to it. But not all the possible "test cases" are covered.

What if no K-Albanians votes for being inside Serbia and no Serb votes for independence?

This is actually the most common "test case" which requires some "brute force" approach called INDEPENDENCE.

Victor,

Your comment is somewhat of an oxymoron. The only compromise cannot be independence as you say, because compromise needs to have more than one possible outcome.

»Your comment is somewhat of an oxymoron. »

It would be an oxymoron, as you say, if I had suggested another alternative or option in the compromise... but I have not.

There is no compromise to be made between independence and another statute for Kosovo. Independence is the only viable solution for both Serbs and Albanians.

"As long as situation stays as today you'll stay accusing others for your misfortunes. And there's no stability in the Balkans.

You need no Americans nor Russians to blame for.
(Olli, 26. September 2007 11:40)"

Olli, are you actually talking about the Albanians in the serbian province of KiM, and you have only mentioned the Serbs by mistake, while you wanted to write about the Albnians?

predictor ( the one who at first introduced himself as being an "unbiased Serb" ): you forgot to add that there is no significance at all in addressing to Priština, since it was always the capital of the southern serbian province of KiM... so, I am afraid to disappoint you, but...you are only expressing your wishful thoughts! ...after now even the Vatican supports a solution in accordance with international law...
don´t worry, you will calm down again and some day you will accept it living in Serbia.

"Well, if anyone truly aims for ...

Dear Serb and Albanians, I know by experience that you don't trust your state organs nor municipal organs, not politicians nor civil servants. You have it hard to trust the man next door. As much as he to trust you.

And why? Yes, you have your reasons... Let's take for example corruption, corruption of all kinds, the way of life in the Balkans - with most people being both givers and takers.

You live in societies where it is an everyday result that common good looses to personal gains.

Dear Serbs and Albanians, I'm sorry to say that in the first place it is nothing and no-one else but you yourself as the greatest obstacle for stability in the Balkans. It is your attitudes, dishonesty, your arrogance combined and supported by willful ignorance, acceptance of corruption, lack of true pride, etc... all these things that unable you to devolop your societies to kind that you honestly would be proud of, a society where you respect others and others respect you; societies where you would have good to live in.

As long as situation stays as today you'll stay accusing others for your misfortunes. And there's no stability in the Balkans.

You need no Americans nor Russians to blame for.
(Olli, 26. September 2007 11:40)"

This is the only person I agree with here. The only way Serbia and Kosovo sort out their issues is by themselves.

America, EU and Russia should do no more than mediation. Telling them what to do as if they were children will eventually lead them back to where they started...

Jovan
“predictor ( the one who at first introduced himself as being an "unbiased Serb" ):”

You are wrong as I never introduced myself other than a typical Albanian, and I am very proud of that. I am calmed down, but not willing to live in Serbia regardless of consequences. So forget it. You better use to live in independent Kosova. You should be aware that Serb minority will benefit the most in an independent Kosova, as under international supervision, our authorities will have to do a “positive discrimination” for the Serb minority in the country, based in our Constitution, that for changes of the same one will be required at least 2/3 majority (qualified majority) in a parliament, including 2/3 of minority parliament members, additionally an International that will lead future EU mission will have absolute veto right to Kosovas constitution changes. In this way, your rights are factually guaranteed. So, Jovan, there is nothing to be worried about.

George,
“I do hope that Bruxelles will learn not to ask us, EU people, to jump always when US says so, especially in security issues which are affecting us directly.”

It makes me laugh when I read this: “us, EU people”, Romania and EU, yes, yes, I know you are IN, but factually far away of the real EU, just to remind you a fact that you (and Bulgaria) have joined EU under special conditions, right? Do you know the reason? Let me tell you: because you are IN only thanking to EU external interests, meaning Balkans. I remember 1989-1992 when YU people (including us at that time) went to Romania to sell “jeans”, silken socks, sport shoes etc. that we had enough, while we ate only a chicken meat as there were no other food to be served in a “restaurants”. Even today, my dear friend, take a look around the Romania, as I must tell you that Romania is not only the Bucharest, but take a look other towns and villages. Don’t preach me about the EU.

Predictor,
" Let me tell you: because you are IN only thanking to EU external interests, meaning Balkans."

so you are also anti-Romanian aswell as being against the state your in - one wonders about the type of security that any non-Albanians would really have with such sentiments. More over with comments such as Arlinda's "Personally, I don't want Albania-Kosovo to be fully a member of the EU" one wonders how respectful of the EUMIK operations the Serbian Albanians would be to those who are there to help - but then it is always easier to live in denial and blame everyone else for your self made problems.

Its great to see that our Serbian leaders are formulating a common policy on Kosovo, reflecting the full will of the Serbian populace, and that is that Serbia's borders are indivisible, now and for ever.

Albanians may have extensive self rule in many areas of day to day life, but the title to the land (the land deed), will always belong to Serbia as long as Serbs remain united, and appeal to international law and binding agreements.

Jovan, I believe you're thinking of "corrector", I know I got them confused at first.

Here's a link to Corrector's post.

http://www.b92.net/eng/news/comments.php?nav_id=39688

Break up Kosovo along ethnic lines, split bosnia let everybody join their mother land, republic of srpska to serbia, herceg bosna to croatia, albanian kosovo part to albania and serbian part to serbia and get it over with!! Then after a few decades when the ppl of the balkans cool down maybe we'll all learn to get along. You cant expect the ppl in bosnia to kiss and make up right after a civil war that killed 100,000 ppl and at the same time you can't expect albanians and serbs to kiss and make up right after a civil war. Create new borders, let things cool down and start creating a better life for all ppl of former Yugoslavia.

Jovan,

You asked: "Olli, are you actually talking about the Albanians in the serbian province of KiM, and you have only mentioned the Serbs by mistake, while you wanted to write about the Albanians?"

Jovan, I don't know should I cry or laugh. So, I'm doing both.
Jovan, you are a proof of what I wrote. You only see failures of other people. Go get yourself a mirror and be honest to yourself. You start to see the world as it really is. Yes, for sure it will be a rocky road.

And if you need it written on the wall: I didn't mention Serbs by mistake. I mentioned them intentionally.

Victor,

"The only compromise possible is independence..."

That was your comment. It's because you haven't suggested another alternative or option that makes your comment an oxymoron.

Think about it. Or open a dictionary.

Princip,

I read your comment, but not understood a word, what are you trying to say???

To: arlinda

Dear Arlinda, I see you quote me but you really do not get properly the meaning of my lines...

The key word in my previous post was "unilaterally". ("you [Kosovo Albanians]may proclame unilaterally the Kosovo independence on daily basis after December 10, but don't expect to be accepted and considered as valid, at least not by Romania!")

Therefore, I will not blame you for calling me "arrogant", because it seems that you, as many Kosovo Albanians, (saddly I must say)cannot see nuances between black and white, and everybody should be either on your side, either on Serbian side...

Well, just to make things clear: we Romanians, we respect both Serbs and Albanians - and you may remember this when you sing the Albanian national anthem, because it was composed by a Romanian, Ciprian Porumbescu... But we cannot accept abusive behaviour from one side, after we helped in stopping the other side from abusive behaviour (and I will not only mention supporting NATO bombings on Serbia, but also the fact that we, Romanians, and our friends&neighbours Bulgarians were the ones who denined aerial space access for Russian troops trying to develop their "bridgehead" on Pristina airport, in 1999).

Now, about being "your own boss", I am afraid Kosovo Albanians already denied themselves this option - by joining Americans, and playing on their tune...

As for your lines...
"You think you became "European" now? You don't even have the same visa privileges as western Europeans."

...this really made me laugh. Last Sunday I have returned to Kosovo from Barcelona, after five days there with my wife, typical low-cost tourist visit... Guess what? I didn't even need my passports, only my Romanian national ID card... Of course, Romanians still need visa for US and Canada, but pretty soon this issue will be solved (after all, we joined US in the Iraq adventure...) I wish you, Kosovo Albanians, will be able to do this soon (of course, it make take some more time if you consider you are too good for joining EU, as you suggest).

Last, but not least, you say:
"You are no one to tell Albanians what we should do with our future".

Maybe yes, maybe not. You see, Romania is an older country than Albania (I will not speak of Kosovo yet, since it is still a province, not a country). Consequently, as Americans say, "we have been there, done that, seen this"... Still, we are not interested in explaining the obvious, therefore I was not "telling Albanians what to do with their future", but only offering a hint about the consequences of unilateral declaration of independence of Kosovo, strictly from Romanian poit of view. It's your option to ignore it, no problem.

All the best with the "We should be like Switzerland!" action-plan, sounds interesting!

For predictor:

You answered yourself: indeed, we Romanians, we are IN EU. And proud of that (you are too busy being proud to be Albanians, why should we not be proud of being Europeans?)

Also, it is really fascinating the way you avoid aknowledging the fact that in 1999 Romania and Bulgaria have increased their chances to join NATO and EU by helping NATO to protect you, Albanians, from Milosevic... Should I understand that you did not like that we got involved? (this remember me an old saying - "those you give water when they are thirsty, will spit on you one they are full of water")... Very sad, indeed.

Regarding the "special conditions" for Romanian&Bulgaria joining EU:
I am looking forward to see what will be the conditions setted for Kosovo... Probably, having so much experience in being "conditioned", Romanian and Bulgaria may be asked to help with Kosovo accession conditions, what do you think?

As for the Communism years in Romania, yes, it was tough life, much tougher than in Yugoslavia. But let's see the full half of the glass (those who can): today, Romania is where it is, Yugoslavia simply dissapeared, nobody there are doing great (except Slovenians and maybe Croats, but they are still outside EU)
My question is (a rhetorical one): Who is responsible for YU collapse? Albanians have no contribution at all?! And don't give me the bla,bla,bla with "victims and innocents", I work in Kosovo/ex-Yugoslavia already for years...

See you in EU (maybe)
George

Viking,

That would be fine with me.
But why are we forcing people to stay in Bosnia. And we are forcing people (Serbia) to split their country?

George,
“I do hope that Bruxelles will learn not to ask us, EU people, to jump always when US says so”
“(after all, we joined US in the Iraq adventure...)”

If I am correct these are your word, right? I am quoting you because you are coming in contradiction with your own thoughts, right? (first one from your first comment, second one is from your last replica)

I would really like to hear from you, as one that is working in Kosova (I presume in an international org), what does mean your first “line” and does say the second one?

Regarding the Rumania, I am not talking about communist Romania, but about present Romania as EU member! Living in the High Tech era, we can everyday see the life in Romania, excluding (maybe) Bucharest, it is extremely bad, we can see villages and towns in Romania that looks very bad, with very poor and helpless people living in.

As regards to your rhetorical question “Who is responsible for YU collapse?”, I can actually start the whole history telling you, but I will be very short:
Even thought I didn’t like that, firstly meaning on the “way” that collapsed (meaning war in Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Kosova), you must admit that events in 1981 are one that seriously destabilized, at that time, very stabile YU. After that, year 1989 is the one when Milosevic forcibly took control over Kosova. Other federal units, took this as a serious threat from Serbia, as well, and rapidly started preparations for splitting from YU.

If you know different story, you are more than welcomed to tell me. Just, please, when you say something, remember what you say, as you could say something else, that comes in contradiction to your previous comment.

To Predictor, from George:

“I do hope that Bruxelles will learn not to ask us, EU people, to jump always when US says so”
“(after all, we joined US in the Iraq adventure...)”

Dear Predictor, there is no contradiction.

The first comment is my opinion, as Romanian and EU citizen, about how EU should deal with US demands. That's why I said "I hope...".

The second line is a simple reflection of the reality: indeed, we, Romanians, as other European countries, we joined US (and UK, by the way) in the Iraq adventure. (and it was done before accession into EU, anyway).

I must underline that we were not pushed in this by nobody, it was a matter of showing loialty toward an allied and friendly country, after the September 11 attacks. And a matter of securing future support from US, e.g. in obtaining (in a a reasonable close future), a "no visa needed" regime for Romanian citizens. This is the principle of "give and take", between two countries that are sharing a rather balanced relation. US need us (and others, too...) not only for Iraq, but also (e.g.) for extending their military presence in Eastern Europe and Black Sea area. And US will show their gratitude, hopefully, sooner or later.

You, as a Kosovo Albanian, should understand this logic - after all, it is very similar with the attitude of Kosovo Albanians toward US, although US did not gain much from Kosovo so the relation is quite disbalanced - to use a diplomatic language (I know, the famous Camp Bondsteel ... it is a piece of cake compared with military facilities already made available to Americans in Bulgaria and Romania...)

As about the poor Romania of nowadays, I don't deny that a lot of people are living in bad conditions. Such people are plenty even in US. However, if you relay in judging a country only on what you see on the internet or on TV, it may be tricky (I have worked more than 10 years in TV foreign news, this is an objective professional assessment shared by many TV analysts worldwide). I would give you more credit in assessing Romania's situation if you would have lived in my country at least half of the time I've been living in Kosovo (by the way, not in Pristina, but in Skenderaj/Srbica - maybe you know the area...).

And last but not least, two things to be added:
Poverty is not only a probelm of present, but also of future, because is connected with the respectge country potential. You got the idea about Romania's potential, no need to go into details, OK?
Second, Romania's situation is caused not by war/interethnic conflict, but by Communism - and tehrefore is much easier to address at all levels, including political one. You can check over internet about the current government in Bucharest, with less than 30% support in Parlament seats, but formed by a Romanian party and the Hungarian minority party...
You, in Kosovo, you should take it as an example, as we took the French-German reconciliation model... To wrap-up, economy is one face of a country, there are other things to be considered too (especially when that country applies and it gets into something like EU).

However, Romania's economic situation was something you brought up, with obvious intention to be offensive, since this is something without connection with Kosovo problem. As a matter of fact, seeing Kosovo really scared me, because I was thinking that it cannot be worst, in Europe, than Bosnia-Hertzegovina, in terms of economical development and inter-ethnic hate - and I was wrong, unfortunately.

As about YU collapse, my (rhetorical) question was intended to answer your demeaning comments on how poor Romania was, compared with YU, and to show you that economical prosperity is nothing when nationalistic passions are taking over the minds of the people, regardless their ethnicity. Nevertheless, I wated to stress my opinion that Albanians are sharing a part of the responsibility for the catastroophic outcome, and I see we agree on this issue. This is very good, indeed.

George
PS: To help you focus on the substance of my comments, not on their form (which my be negatively influenced by my non-native speaker English skills): I am (only) 32 years old, I have good memory, and I save my posts for further reference anyway…