To Joe
Whether the Americans like it
or not the future is a united
Europe which will take
responsibilities for solving
the world's problems.Bush
cannot solve them because god
hasn't given him permission
yet.The weakness of the dollar doesn't depend on the
USA but how it s perceived by
the international markets.You
can only manage your way through by selling USA assets
to foreign countries which has its limits.I lived in USA
and if i had a second life i
would still live in Europe.In
Europe we have something that
is called society and which we value.In USA you're just
an individual and on your own.As to the soup-kitchens
this is common in USA and allien to Europeans.You only
have to visit a ghetto in
chicago or any other major
city and you get the picture.
As to your sniping that
Europeans envy or hate americans thats is not in our
character.By the way there
thousands of Americans living
in France.Did you ask them
why are they still living
there?
I had answered your comment in a way I think it was appropriate, unfortunately it was censored...
I was referring to your request not to write "dear friend" ...I am afraid, every sound person wouldn´t mind being addressed in that way, but you seem to have some problems with that.
but that will remain your problem. I can´t help you on that.
I will of course continue to write in a polite and friendly manner here, if you have problems with that...as already said above - your problem.
Another date? Once they say that five EU states oppose independence but the ones that don't will recognize it unilaterally, another time only one is against and they have "virtual unity", another time that another two EU states are backing negotiations on top of the known five, another time that the EU will be decided after December 19th after the UNSC meeting, next up possibly April, now by June... I really did not think the EU was so impotent on this matter. Maybe they are just being extra careful, or they really have no clue on how to handle this one. Hehe, there is a saying in Polish that goes:
"Niczego niewiadomo, Czeski film!"
This means: "Nobody knows anything, Czech movie!" (an allusion to when a Polish audience watches a Czech movie and nobody has a clue what is going on, same goes for the EU FMs when it comes to this whole Kosovo issue!).
I think that probably by the time the EU comes to a decision, Kosovo may have lost interest in the EU.
Do you know how many millions of Europeans - specially the French - predicted before you the imminent collapse of the US dollar and the end of the US?
Not just poor Eastern-Europeans but wealthier citizens of the EU envied and still envy the US for a much higher living standard and the political/military/diplomatic power of my country. In the mean time the French with their pro-US president became much more realistic.
But about the US dollar you are missing the key points. 1. It greatly helps our booming exports and starts to hurt key EU countries. 2. In the US we pay in dollars. 3. Practically everything is much cheaper by us than in Europe even if we would consider a dollar / euro parity. Food, clothing, gaz, etc almost twice more expensive in Europe. Even items like sending a letter from Germany to the US (1.40 euro) versus .90 dollar from here. 5.75 dollars for 20 aspirins in Italy according to the New York Times versus $2.45 here.
Your emotions (dislike or hatread) guide you. You take your wishes for realities.
I can tell you I would even like to see S1.70 for a euro to cut back our imports and increase our exports further. By such a rate Europe would be hurt badly. And the Chinease and the others exchanging their billions of dollars do you realize what would happen? For a short time the dollar would collapse and all those people would get 15-20 cents for a dollar. In Europe you would have soup-kitchen all over. At that time I would say to those who wished to see our collapse "Bon appetit medames, messieurs".
To Joe
The fact that EU has been unable to act as a world
leader is that certain members ie UK,Sweden,Finland
are totally against a common
approach to world problems.
They act as trojian horses for EU. They are against EU
common foreign policy,common
defense etc.As to your belief
that USA is stiil an empire
you only have to look at the
value of the dollar which is
an indicator to the strength
of tha country.The USA trade
and current account deficits
are just about manageable due
to courtesy of the Chinese
and the Arabs.However, things
are moving fast after the
decision by the bank of china
to convert most of their
foreign reserve holdings into
euros.In short, all empires
have a life span and in the
case of USA it is coming to
an end.
This is hilarious. First it was november, then december, then january, and now they claim february or even some time by june. yeah just keep holding onto the false promises. I'm sure being "independent" means a lot more than having electricity and many other things. America promises eveything it cant never deliver on.
I've read quite an interesting artilce
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/24/world/europe/24serbia.html?em&ex=1198645200&en=d6b65d3350e588fa&ei=5087%0A
Really interesting. Quite a smart idea might i add.
I still cannot believe the albanian pro commentors who still think that there is some sort of "blatant political pattern" among all this. Amusing to see how many of them believe that a number of EU countries saying they will view kosovo as independent will deliver on their hopes for independence, but they dont realise that when it comes down to it, the EU countries still have no say. Troika talks may have fallen through, but it doesnt mean that they are over or that they will be discontinued. How ironic, serbia offers such a broad autonomy in which kosovo could have its own flag, government and national anthem and the albanians came to the talks armed only with their one word vocabularies - "no." I wonder why that is, oh yeah something in terms of a "greater albania" seems to echo through. Hmmm i wonder what it could all mean?
Please, as an outsider to the whole saga don't patronize those of us who have ties there and spent more time than you know. You might have worked there with US troops or the UN and that now makes you a bonafide expert on the region right? As a Serb who had relatives expelled there in the late 1800's and can probably trace my family roots five times farther than you can, what words of wisdom can you chime in to make me/us feel better? Or any of you that are not from there? You remind me of those college professors who went there on one trip and they now know it all....control yourself.
I have said it again and again on this site and nothing will change...Independence will solve nothing. Kosovo will never prosper and will always depend on handouts whether they are from the UN/EU/US..or their relatives in Western Europe/US. Hopefully these people have nice bank accounts to keep their relatives happy about holding on to "THE CAUSE." Some of you living abroad like me should cut the cord like I did and start worrying about yourselves a little more and build up your own wealth. Maybe then the cycle of madness will end....
By way of analogy, I suppose Slovenia breaking away from Yugoslavia could be a model for the Kurds breaking away from Turkey. The equivalent then would be for Greece to head the EU while Turkey has its territory taken away. I can't imagine that ever being allowed to happen - so why should Serbia have to experience something that has quite a strong equivalence?
I am amazed at the Slovenes having the cheek to say anything after starting the breakup of Yugoslavia. Best that they stayed quiet. They are the lucky ones - their troubles were minor compared with what happened elsewhere. By the way, the most strongly stated racism I have personally ever heard was in Slovenia. Also, more generically, they seem to want to be in the EU but to keep their country for themselves. I suspect that Slovenians have yet to learn the effect of EU membership includes substantial internal immigration.
I wonder why Slovenia gets to head the EU - it is very small. After all there are provinces and counties all over Europe that are bigger - why don't they get a go too?
"Besides, it's too important for USA to just let go, for obvious reasons (geographical location).
Also, its sad to see Serbs rely on Russia and over exaggerate their military power, comparing it to the USA and saying USA are weakened by the Iraq war. Let me remind you of the military budget USA; 500 billion dollars, 450 billion more than russia which has a small 50 billion. "
Good Luck Jovan and co.
(Mirsad-LDD, 24 December 2007 18:28)"
Mirsad-LDD,
The US is truly seeking to let go but not for geographical reasons. The simple reason is that they have overstretched themselves from Iraq to Afghanistan -- why do you think they dared not go into Iran and Sudan big time even though they have been bad mouthing these countries for an eternity now???
The US has the world's biggest military budget that is true -- but this budget is spread woefully thin throughout their military facilities all over the world (Nato, Iraq, Afghanistan, S.Korea, Japan, Pacific etc). Not to mention that the wage bill of US military personnel are higher than those in Russia or non-West countries. So really, on a per location basis, the US budget is not all that great.
And the Americans are not exactly swimming in money at the moment -- they are in fact drowning in a sinking dollar and their subprime housing market problems -- their 2nd biggest bank Morgan Stanley had to sell US$5 bil of its stake to, of all people, COMMUNIST CHINA (!) and is now negotiating for another Asian country Singapore to buy a stake of the bank for another $5bil. Americans are losing their homes by the thousands from the subprime mortgage debacle and what do you think these people will do in the next elections (not very far away) if the US government tries to increase their military spending even further while their homes are repossessed? But that is a problem the Americans themselves will have to grapple with -- when both your government and citizens spend money that you don't have (I am talking respectively about the largest BOP deficit in the whole world and bankruptcies and foreclosures from failure to pay credit card bills and mortgages) the day of reckoning must come .....
"Russia softens its stance against independence of Kosova.
Independent Kosovo not automatic solution for all states
[link]
Russia to recognize Kosovo only in case of Belgrade/Pristina consent(Part 2)
[link]
(laki NY, 24 December 2007 19:51)"
laki NY,
Please be more honest in your post. Your first link seems to imply that Moscow has changed its mind about opposing Kosovo's independence which is far from the truth. For example, the last paragraphs in the article stated that:'The Russian Foreign Ministry said last week Russia would undoubtedly apply its veto right in the UN Security Council if a decision on unilaterally proclaiming Kosovo independence was made.
Some other Security Council members, including Cyprus and Greece, have also voiced opposition to a unilateral declaration of sovereignty by Kosovo, fearing this could set a precedent for separatist regions on their territories'
Similarly your interpretation of the 2nd link is laughable. As the title clearly stated, Moscow would agree to Kosovo independence ONLY IF BELGRADE CONSENTS.
I don't mind reading views that are opposed to mine as everyone is entitled to their views. But I would appreciate that the facts presented be accurate. Thank you.
WOW back up, the EU will actually solve a problem?
Normally I wouldn't agree with any of Joe's comments, but honestly the EU is a JOKE! They act all high and mighty in the face of insignificant problems and run for the hills once a big one pops up.
From a national interest point of view the US has absolutely zero interest in Kosovo or its status. Only once they realized the mass incompetence of the EU were they forced to take the helm...again. Its easy top understand why the US wants Kosovo to be independent, no not for the general concern of Albanians there, but so they can finally get that monkey off their back once and for all.
I truly hope the next US President completely leaves Europe or EU, to its fate no matter what. I am sure they have far more pressing matters.
Oh please Doni again with your X-files style comments. Ya they are planning some big plans for another plan which might finally be the result for their 2nd draft plan that could be the resulting plan for their #1 plan for Kosovo.... you see how boring it sounds? the EU is paralyzed, there intention is to finish this but they have no legal or moral means of doing so hence the long pause in decision making.
Congrats to the only one - the Slovene PM, who will "remedy" the situation in KosovO!
The ONLY reason Slovenia broke free from the FYR was due to their not wanting to be associated with the remaining republics. You'd be better off taking advantage of your position in benefiting your own country Janša!
wow a lot of people are commenting the possibility of whether the Kosovo is gone by February, June and so forth. Well, shouldnt we ask ourselves where do we stand today, considering the fact that we once were within the same borders with Slovenia. Today Slovenia is assuming EU leadership. People, wake up, we are the only state in Europe that moves backwards & if you cant really see that than it's a shame.
Where was Serbia in relation to the law in the nineties? Serbia did not know the law or the respect of human rights when it mistreated her own 2 million K-Albanian citizens like no other country. Because of it Serbia forfeited all rights to that province. You really lost it for ever just like parents, who mistreat their children.
And one advise to you: even if you don't find it easy please try to respect the K-Albanians on this site, don't patronize them with your repeated "my friend".
Wow, June! The prediction on independence really makes me laugh. There were so many dates by now that makes actually fell amused by this kinds of statemnets. Mr Jansa just forgot to mention the exact year. :)))))))
I think the EU has matured since Bosnia. They still are growing up, but I think they are up to the task. It is the US that is presenting a problem with its statements that it will support the unilateral declaration of independence. This is a European mess that Europe has to deal with since it is in Europe. Get the point? The US should take the back seat on this and let the Europeans prove their problem solving abilities instead of trying to ram this down their throats.
Wonder if this EU mouthpiece would be singing the same song if Kosovo was a part of Slovenia? I don't think so. It's always easier to blah, blah about someone else's backyard. These politicos are all so disgusting.
Thanks MOSH, I meant hole, although it could have a double meaning. The EU not being whole and having a hole it the EU map.
Bushi, are you beginning to see the truth here? We can only achieve peace when there isn't antagonism between the two people, but constructive dialog? It's not two bads. The correct term is lesser of two evils, but I don't believe that Tadic is evil. I believe that he is good for Serbia and for Kosovo.
Russia softens its stance against independence of Kosova.
Independent Kosovo not automatic solution for all states
http://en.rian.ru/world/20071224/93948415.html
Russia to recognize Kosovo only in case of Belgrade/Pristina consent(Part 2)
http://www.interfax.com/3/349777/news.aspx
“How can such a minute little province (Kosova) act so boldly?
Ultimately, this is the reason the tiny province of Kosovo can defy the powerful armies of Serbia and Russia: IT HAS THE BACKING OF EUROPE. “ - Gerald Flurry
well, my friend, at least what I can say for sure is, that there were countless times the issue was postponed...and I really do not think the US are so certain about this little spot on the map...not as the Serbs are. you should know that, and...by the way, the US are known to be an undependable "friend"..or should I rather call them your masters?
what happened with the Kurds, after the US let them fall...?
do you know that at all, or are you just falling for US-propaganda-sites on the internet?
and where for heaven´s sake have you heard or read that most of the UN are favoring something that directly breaches the own charter?
who do you wanna fool here?
with Russia, China, Indonesia and many other states...being on the side of law, rule of law and ...that means Serbia.
most of those states are certainly not on the albanian side, let´s face reality my friend.
and what´s best...you think it ´s a done deal... I think it is just beginning...
The Europeans taking a lead? You must be kidding. When were they able to agree on anything important in international matters without the US? During the Bosnia tragedy a diplomat noticed so accurately that the Europeans are not even capable to put a motorcade together without the US. This lamantable situation hardly changed.
The leadership role of the US will be seen again. The US will recognize the declaration of independence of Kosovo followed by key EU countries. The other small ones will follow later. Such important countries as Greece, Cypress and Slovakia will not be able to prevent it.
The EU must realize that it is a dangerous precedent to dismember a country, send in an unsanctioned mission, and risk losing an important and strategic Balkan country. the EU map wouldn't look good with a whole in it.
(American Eagle, 24 December 2007 18:18)
Jovan? Why are you under the illusion that Serbia will be able to hold onto Kosovo, i'm sure you're smart enough and have been kept up to date with current issues and blatent political patterns. It was declared by many top world superpowers including USA that kosovo will never be under Serbian borders, why do you think they would suddenly turn their back on Kosovo? Why would they have a huge sudden change of mind? The only reason the process is taking too long is that the EU and the USA are trying to find a best possible solution to endeavour a serbian acceptance to an independent Kosovo. But in the end majority of UN states have agreed that they will recognise a unilateral declaration anyway.
Besides, it's too important for USA to just let go, for obvious reasons (geographical location).
Also, its sad to see Serbs rely on Russia and over exaggerate their military power, comparing it to the USA and saying USA are weakened by the Iraq war. Let me remind you of the military budget USA; 500 billion dollars, 450 billion more than russia which has a small 50 billion.
"now it is June... =) "
I don't know what you're smiling about, not once has the mass majority of the UN favoured the Serbs, even lean towards a support, let alone make any statements which point out that Kosovo remain a part of Serbia!!
Jasna's comments on Kosovo's
crisis shows that he doesn't
have a grasp on the problem
and his attempt to associate
it with the Albanians potential actions in other
countries of the region is a
non-starter.Is the Kosovo
solution subject to blackmail
by the Albanians of what they
may do in neighbouring countries?If that is the case
where is the clout of the EU.If Mr Jansa tries to push
Serbia against the wall(as
Slovenia has been doing up
to now)this will sour relations with Serbia for
msny years to come.Mr Jasna
will have to go back to the
UN charter,read it and then
try to apply the principles
of its founding members to
the problem of kosovo.What we
need mr Jasna is the application of international
law.
Hopefully peace comes soon. It is never too late to compromise. That can solve this whole mess in a matter of days. It would be nice to move on and get this whole process over and done with. Being stubborn is only holding up progress. The EU must realize that it is a dangerous precedent to dismember a country, send in an unsanctioned mission, and risk losing an important and strategic Balkan country. the EU map wouldn't look good with a whole in it.
this is just to fool serbs that EU is still undecided, and they will keep postponing, when undercover is being implemented Independence, so the serbs will never notice how.
When they will find out, it's gonna be to late
It looks like the Europeans are taking more of a lead in this process, and that's a good thing. We might actually have negotiations instead of what we've been having. My guess is the Americans finally realize they need help trying to make this happen. Otherwise it will only be the start of more trouble ahead.
well, my friend, at least what I can say for sure is, that there were countless times the issue was postponed...and I really do not think the US are so certain about this little spot on the map...not as the Serbs are. you should know that, and...by the way, the US are known to be an undependable "friend"..or should I rather call them your masters?
what happened with the Kurds, after the US let them fall...?
do you know that at all, or are you just falling for US-propaganda-sites on the internet?
and where for heaven´s sake have you heard or read that most of the UN are favoring something that directly breaches the own charter?
who do you wanna fool here?
with Russia, China, Indonesia and many other states...being on the side of law, rule of law and ...that means Serbia.
most of those states are certainly not on the albanian side, let´s face reality my friend.
and what´s best...you think it ´s a done deal... I think it is just beginning...
Wonder if this EU mouthpiece would be singing the same song if Kosovo was a part of Slovenia? I don't think so. It's always easier to blah, blah about someone else's backyard. These politicos are all so disgusting.
It looks like the Europeans are taking more of a lead in this process, and that's a good thing. We might actually have negotiations instead of what we've been having. My guess is the Americans finally realize they need help trying to make this happen. Otherwise it will only be the start of more trouble ahead.
Wow, June! The prediction on independence really makes me laugh. There were so many dates by now that makes actually fell amused by this kinds of statemnets. Mr Jansa just forgot to mention the exact year. :)))))))
Hopefully peace comes soon. It is never too late to compromise. That can solve this whole mess in a matter of days. It would be nice to move on and get this whole process over and done with. Being stubborn is only holding up progress. The EU must realize that it is a dangerous precedent to dismember a country, send in an unsanctioned mission, and risk losing an important and strategic Balkan country. the EU map wouldn't look good with a whole in it.
Jovan? Why are you under the illusion that Serbia will be able to hold onto Kosovo, i'm sure you're smart enough and have been kept up to date with current issues and blatent political patterns. It was declared by many top world superpowers including USA that kosovo will never be under Serbian borders, why do you think they would suddenly turn their back on Kosovo? Why would they have a huge sudden change of mind? The only reason the process is taking too long is that the EU and the USA are trying to find a best possible solution to endeavour a serbian acceptance to an independent Kosovo. But in the end majority of UN states have agreed that they will recognise a unilateral declaration anyway.
Besides, it's too important for USA to just let go, for obvious reasons (geographical location).
Also, its sad to see Serbs rely on Russia and over exaggerate their military power, comparing it to the USA and saying USA are weakened by the Iraq war. Let me remind you of the military budget USA; 500 billion dollars, 450 billion more than russia which has a small 50 billion.
"now it is June... =) "
I don't know what you're smiling about, not once has the mass majority of the UN favoured the Serbs, even lean towards a support, let alone make any statements which point out that Kosovo remain a part of Serbia!!
Jasna's comments on Kosovo's
crisis shows that he doesn't
have a grasp on the problem
and his attempt to associate
it with the Albanians potential actions in other
countries of the region is a
non-starter.Is the Kosovo
solution subject to blackmail
by the Albanians of what they
may do in neighbouring countries?If that is the case
where is the clout of the EU.If Mr Jansa tries to push
Serbia against the wall(as
Slovenia has been doing up
to now)this will sour relations with Serbia for
msny years to come.Mr Jasna
will have to go back to the
UN charter,read it and then
try to apply the principles
of its founding members to
the problem of kosovo.What we
need mr Jasna is the application of international
law.
I think the EU has matured since Bosnia. They still are growing up, but I think they are up to the task. It is the US that is presenting a problem with its statements that it will support the unilateral declaration of independence. This is a European mess that Europe has to deal with since it is in Europe. Get the point? The US should take the back seat on this and let the Europeans prove their problem solving abilities instead of trying to ram this down their throats.
Congrats to the only one - the Slovene PM, who will "remedy" the situation in KosovO!
The ONLY reason Slovenia broke free from the FYR was due to their not wanting to be associated with the remaining republics. You'd be better off taking advantage of your position in benefiting your own country Janša!
Thanks MOSH, I meant hole, although it could have a double meaning. The EU not being whole and having a hole it the EU map.
Bushi, are you beginning to see the truth here? We can only achieve peace when there isn't antagonism between the two people, but constructive dialog? It's not two bads. The correct term is lesser of two evils, but I don't believe that Tadic is evil. I believe that he is good for Serbia and for Kosovo.
Where was Serbia in relation to the law in the nineties? Serbia did not know the law or the respect of human rights when it mistreated her own 2 million K-Albanian citizens like no other country. Because of it Serbia forfeited all rights to that province. You really lost it for ever just like parents, who mistreat their children.
And one advise to you: even if you don't find it easy please try to respect the K-Albanians on this site, don't patronize them with your repeated "my friend".
"Russia softens its stance against independence of Kosova.
Independent Kosovo not automatic solution for all states
[link]
Russia to recognize Kosovo only in case of Belgrade/Pristina consent(Part 2)
[link]
(laki NY, 24 December 2007 19:51)"
laki NY,
Please be more honest in your post. Your first link seems to imply that Moscow has changed its mind about opposing Kosovo's independence which is far from the truth. For example, the last paragraphs in the article stated that:'The Russian Foreign Ministry said last week Russia would undoubtedly apply its veto right in the UN Security Council if a decision on unilaterally proclaiming Kosovo independence was made.
Some other Security Council members, including Cyprus and Greece, have also voiced opposition to a unilateral declaration of sovereignty by Kosovo, fearing this could set a precedent for separatist regions on their territories'
Similarly your interpretation of the 2nd link is laughable. As the title clearly stated, Moscow would agree to Kosovo independence ONLY IF BELGRADE CONSENTS.
I don't mind reading views that are opposed to mine as everyone is entitled to their views. But I would appreciate that the facts presented be accurate. Thank you.
By way of analogy, I suppose Slovenia breaking away from Yugoslavia could be a model for the Kurds breaking away from Turkey. The equivalent then would be for Greece to head the EU while Turkey has its territory taken away. I can't imagine that ever being allowed to happen - so why should Serbia have to experience something that has quite a strong equivalence?
I am amazed at the Slovenes having the cheek to say anything after starting the breakup of Yugoslavia. Best that they stayed quiet. They are the lucky ones - their troubles were minor compared with what happened elsewhere. By the way, the most strongly stated racism I have personally ever heard was in Slovenia. Also, more generically, they seem to want to be in the EU but to keep their country for themselves. I suspect that Slovenians have yet to learn the effect of EU membership includes substantial internal immigration.
I wonder why Slovenia gets to head the EU - it is very small. After all there are provinces and counties all over Europe that are bigger - why don't they get a go too?
This is hilarious. First it was november, then december, then january, and now they claim february or even some time by june. yeah just keep holding onto the false promises. I'm sure being "independent" means a lot more than having electricity and many other things. America promises eveything it cant never deliver on.
I've read quite an interesting artilce
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/24/world/europe/24serbia.html?em&ex=1198645200&en=d6b65d3350e588fa&ei=5087%0A
Really interesting. Quite a smart idea might i add.
I still cannot believe the albanian pro commentors who still think that there is some sort of "blatant political pattern" among all this. Amusing to see how many of them believe that a number of EU countries saying they will view kosovo as independent will deliver on their hopes for independence, but they dont realise that when it comes down to it, the EU countries still have no say. Troika talks may have fallen through, but it doesnt mean that they are over or that they will be discontinued. How ironic, serbia offers such a broad autonomy in which kosovo could have its own flag, government and national anthem and the albanians came to the talks armed only with their one word vocabularies - "no." I wonder why that is, oh yeah something in terms of a "greater albania" seems to echo through. Hmmm i wonder what it could all mean?
this is just to fool serbs that EU is still undecided, and they will keep postponing, when undercover is being implemented Independence, so the serbs will never notice how.
When they will find out, it's gonna be to late
wow a lot of people are commenting the possibility of whether the Kosovo is gone by February, June and so forth. Well, shouldnt we ask ourselves where do we stand today, considering the fact that we once were within the same borders with Slovenia. Today Slovenia is assuming EU leadership. People, wake up, we are the only state in Europe that moves backwards & if you cant really see that than it's a shame.
"Besides, it's too important for USA to just let go, for obvious reasons (geographical location).
Also, its sad to see Serbs rely on Russia and over exaggerate their military power, comparing it to the USA and saying USA are weakened by the Iraq war. Let me remind you of the military budget USA; 500 billion dollars, 450 billion more than russia which has a small 50 billion. "
Good Luck Jovan and co.
(Mirsad-LDD, 24 December 2007 18:28)"
Mirsad-LDD,
The US is truly seeking to let go but not for geographical reasons. The simple reason is that they have overstretched themselves from Iraq to Afghanistan -- why do you think they dared not go into Iran and Sudan big time even though they have been bad mouthing these countries for an eternity now???
The US has the world's biggest military budget that is true -- but this budget is spread woefully thin throughout their military facilities all over the world (Nato, Iraq, Afghanistan, S.Korea, Japan, Pacific etc). Not to mention that the wage bill of US military personnel are higher than those in Russia or non-West countries. So really, on a per location basis, the US budget is not all that great.
And the Americans are not exactly swimming in money at the moment -- they are in fact drowning in a sinking dollar and their subprime housing market problems -- their 2nd biggest bank Morgan Stanley had to sell US$5 bil of its stake to, of all people, COMMUNIST CHINA (!) and is now negotiating for another Asian country Singapore to buy a stake of the bank for another $5bil. Americans are losing their homes by the thousands from the subprime mortgage debacle and what do you think these people will do in the next elections (not very far away) if the US government tries to increase their military spending even further while their homes are repossessed? But that is a problem the Americans themselves will have to grapple with -- when both your government and citizens spend money that you don't have (I am talking respectively about the largest BOP deficit in the whole world and bankruptcies and foreclosures from failure to pay credit card bills and mortgages) the day of reckoning must come .....
To Joe
The fact that EU has been unable to act as a world
leader is that certain members ie UK,Sweden,Finland
are totally against a common
approach to world problems.
They act as trojian horses for EU. They are against EU
common foreign policy,common
defense etc.As to your belief
that USA is stiil an empire
you only have to look at the
value of the dollar which is
an indicator to the strength
of tha country.The USA trade
and current account deficits
are just about manageable due
to courtesy of the Chinese
and the Arabs.However, things
are moving fast after the
decision by the bank of china
to convert most of their
foreign reserve holdings into
euros.In short, all empires
have a life span and in the
case of USA it is coming to
an end.
To Joe
Whether the Americans like it
or not the future is a united
Europe which will take
responsibilities for solving
the world's problems.Bush
cannot solve them because god
hasn't given him permission
yet.The weakness of the dollar doesn't depend on the
USA but how it s perceived by
the international markets.You
can only manage your way through by selling USA assets
to foreign countries which has its limits.I lived in USA
and if i had a second life i
would still live in Europe.In
Europe we have something that
is called society and which we value.In USA you're just
an individual and on your own.As to the soup-kitchens
this is common in USA and allien to Europeans.You only
have to visit a ghetto in
chicago or any other major
city and you get the picture.
As to your sniping that
Europeans envy or hate americans thats is not in our
character.By the way there
thousands of Americans living
in France.Did you ask them
why are they still living
there?
Do you know how many millions of Europeans - specially the French - predicted before you the imminent collapse of the US dollar and the end of the US?
Not just poor Eastern-Europeans but wealthier citizens of the EU envied and still envy the US for a much higher living standard and the political/military/diplomatic power of my country. In the mean time the French with their pro-US president became much more realistic.
But about the US dollar you are missing the key points. 1. It greatly helps our booming exports and starts to hurt key EU countries. 2. In the US we pay in dollars. 3. Practically everything is much cheaper by us than in Europe even if we would consider a dollar / euro parity. Food, clothing, gaz, etc almost twice more expensive in Europe. Even items like sending a letter from Germany to the US (1.40 euro) versus .90 dollar from here. 5.75 dollars for 20 aspirins in Italy according to the New York Times versus $2.45 here.
Your emotions (dislike or hatread) guide you. You take your wishes for realities.
I can tell you I would even like to see S1.70 for a euro to cut back our imports and increase our exports further. By such a rate Europe would be hurt badly. And the Chinease and the others exchanging their billions of dollars do you realize what would happen? For a short time the dollar would collapse and all those people would get 15-20 cents for a dollar. In Europe you would have soup-kitchen all over. At that time I would say to those who wished to see our collapse "Bon appetit medames, messieurs".
The EU must realize that it is a dangerous precedent to dismember a country, send in an unsanctioned mission, and risk losing an important and strategic Balkan country. the EU map wouldn't look good with a whole in it.
(American Eagle, 24 December 2007 18:18)
The Europeans taking a lead? You must be kidding. When were they able to agree on anything important in international matters without the US? During the Bosnia tragedy a diplomat noticed so accurately that the Europeans are not even capable to put a motorcade together without the US. This lamantable situation hardly changed.
The leadership role of the US will be seen again. The US will recognize the declaration of independence of Kosovo followed by key EU countries. The other small ones will follow later. Such important countries as Greece, Cypress and Slovakia will not be able to prevent it.
WOW back up, the EU will actually solve a problem?
Normally I wouldn't agree with any of Joe's comments, but honestly the EU is a JOKE! They act all high and mighty in the face of insignificant problems and run for the hills once a big one pops up.
From a national interest point of view the US has absolutely zero interest in Kosovo or its status. Only once they realized the mass incompetence of the EU were they forced to take the helm...again. Its easy top understand why the US wants Kosovo to be independent, no not for the general concern of Albanians there, but so they can finally get that monkey off their back once and for all.
I truly hope the next US President completely leaves Europe or EU, to its fate no matter what. I am sure they have far more pressing matters.
Oh please Doni again with your X-files style comments. Ya they are planning some big plans for another plan which might finally be the result for their 2nd draft plan that could be the resulting plan for their #1 plan for Kosovo.... you see how boring it sounds? the EU is paralyzed, there intention is to finish this but they have no legal or moral means of doing so hence the long pause in decision making.
Please, as an outsider to the whole saga don't patronize those of us who have ties there and spent more time than you know. You might have worked there with US troops or the UN and that now makes you a bonafide expert on the region right? As a Serb who had relatives expelled there in the late 1800's and can probably trace my family roots five times farther than you can, what words of wisdom can you chime in to make me/us feel better? Or any of you that are not from there? You remind me of those college professors who went there on one trip and they now know it all....control yourself.
I have said it again and again on this site and nothing will change...Independence will solve nothing. Kosovo will never prosper and will always depend on handouts whether they are from the UN/EU/US..or their relatives in Western Europe/US. Hopefully these people have nice bank accounts to keep their relatives happy about holding on to "THE CAUSE." Some of you living abroad like me should cut the cord like I did and start worrying about yourselves a little more and build up your own wealth. Maybe then the cycle of madness will end....
I had answered your comment in a way I think it was appropriate, unfortunately it was censored...
I was referring to your request not to write "dear friend" ...I am afraid, every sound person wouldn´t mind being addressed in that way, but you seem to have some problems with that.
but that will remain your problem. I can´t help you on that.
I will of course continue to write in a polite and friendly manner here, if you have problems with that...as already said above - your problem.
Russia softens its stance against independence of Kosova.
Independent Kosovo not automatic solution for all states
http://en.rian.ru/world/20071224/93948415.html
Russia to recognize Kosovo only in case of Belgrade/Pristina consent(Part 2)
http://www.interfax.com/3/349777/news.aspx
“How can such a minute little province (Kosova) act so boldly?
Ultimately, this is the reason the tiny province of Kosovo can defy the powerful armies of Serbia and Russia: IT HAS THE BACKING OF EUROPE. “ - Gerald Flurry
Another date? Once they say that five EU states oppose independence but the ones that don't will recognize it unilaterally, another time only one is against and they have "virtual unity", another time that another two EU states are backing negotiations on top of the known five, another time that the EU will be decided after December 19th after the UNSC meeting, next up possibly April, now by June... I really did not think the EU was so impotent on this matter. Maybe they are just being extra careful, or they really have no clue on how to handle this one. Hehe, there is a saying in Polish that goes:
"Niczego niewiadomo, Czeski film!"
This means: "Nobody knows anything, Czech movie!" (an allusion to when a Polish audience watches a Czech movie and nobody has a clue what is going on, same goes for the EU FMs when it comes to this whole Kosovo issue!).
I think that probably by the time the EU comes to a decision, Kosovo may have lost interest in the EU.
Where was Serbia in relation to the law in the nineties? Serbia did not know the law or the respect of human rights when it mistreated her own 2 million K-Albanian citizens like no other country. Because of it Serbia forfeited all rights to that province. You really lost it for ever just like parents, who mistreat their children.
And one advise to you: even if you don't find it easy please try to respect the K-Albanians on this site, don't patronize them with your repeated "my friend".
this is just to fool serbs that EU is still undecided, and they will keep postponing, when undercover is being implemented Independence, so the serbs will never notice how.
When they will find out, it's gonna be to late
Jovan? Why are you under the illusion that Serbia will be able to hold onto Kosovo, i'm sure you're smart enough and have been kept up to date with current issues and blatent political patterns. It was declared by many top world superpowers including USA that kosovo will never be under Serbian borders, why do you think they would suddenly turn their back on Kosovo? Why would they have a huge sudden change of mind? The only reason the process is taking too long is that the EU and the USA are trying to find a best possible solution to endeavour a serbian acceptance to an independent Kosovo. But in the end majority of UN states have agreed that they will recognise a unilateral declaration anyway.
Besides, it's too important for USA to just let go, for obvious reasons (geographical location).
Also, its sad to see Serbs rely on Russia and over exaggerate their military power, comparing it to the USA and saying USA are weakened by the Iraq war. Let me remind you of the military budget USA; 500 billion dollars, 450 billion more than russia which has a small 50 billion.
"now it is June... =) "
I don't know what you're smiling about, not once has the mass majority of the UN favoured the Serbs, even lean towards a support, let alone make any statements which point out that Kosovo remain a part of Serbia!!
The Europeans taking a lead? You must be kidding. When were they able to agree on anything important in international matters without the US? During the Bosnia tragedy a diplomat noticed so accurately that the Europeans are not even capable to put a motorcade together without the US. This lamantable situation hardly changed.
The leadership role of the US will be seen again. The US will recognize the declaration of independence of Kosovo followed by key EU countries. The other small ones will follow later. Such important countries as Greece, Cypress and Slovakia will not be able to prevent it.
The EU must realize that it is a dangerous precedent to dismember a country, send in an unsanctioned mission, and risk losing an important and strategic Balkan country. the EU map wouldn't look good with a whole in it.
(American Eagle, 24 December 2007 18:18)
Russia softens its stance against independence of Kosova.
Independent Kosovo not automatic solution for all states
http://en.rian.ru/world/20071224/93948415.html
Russia to recognize Kosovo only in case of Belgrade/Pristina consent(Part 2)
http://www.interfax.com/3/349777/news.aspx
“How can such a minute little province (Kosova) act so boldly?
Ultimately, this is the reason the tiny province of Kosovo can defy the powerful armies of Serbia and Russia: IT HAS THE BACKING OF EUROPE. “ - Gerald Flurry
wow a lot of people are commenting the possibility of whether the Kosovo is gone by February, June and so forth. Well, shouldnt we ask ourselves where do we stand today, considering the fact that we once were within the same borders with Slovenia. Today Slovenia is assuming EU leadership. People, wake up, we are the only state in Europe that moves backwards & if you cant really see that than it's a shame.
Thanks MOSH, I meant hole, although it could have a double meaning. The EU not being whole and having a hole it the EU map.
Bushi, are you beginning to see the truth here? We can only achieve peace when there isn't antagonism between the two people, but constructive dialog? It's not two bads. The correct term is lesser of two evils, but I don't believe that Tadic is evil. I believe that he is good for Serbia and for Kosovo.
Congrats to the only one - the Slovene PM, who will "remedy" the situation in KosovO!
The ONLY reason Slovenia broke free from the FYR was due to their not wanting to be associated with the remaining republics. You'd be better off taking advantage of your position in benefiting your own country Janša!
Hopefully peace comes soon. It is never too late to compromise. That can solve this whole mess in a matter of days. It would be nice to move on and get this whole process over and done with. Being stubborn is only holding up progress. The EU must realize that it is a dangerous precedent to dismember a country, send in an unsanctioned mission, and risk losing an important and strategic Balkan country. the EU map wouldn't look good with a whole in it.
well, my friend, at least what I can say for sure is, that there were countless times the issue was postponed...and I really do not think the US are so certain about this little spot on the map...not as the Serbs are. you should know that, and...by the way, the US are known to be an undependable "friend"..or should I rather call them your masters?
what happened with the Kurds, after the US let them fall...?
do you know that at all, or are you just falling for US-propaganda-sites on the internet?
and where for heaven´s sake have you heard or read that most of the UN are favoring something that directly breaches the own charter?
who do you wanna fool here?
with Russia, China, Indonesia and many other states...being on the side of law, rule of law and ...that means Serbia.
most of those states are certainly not on the albanian side, let´s face reality my friend.
and what´s best...you think it ´s a done deal... I think it is just beginning...
WOW back up, the EU will actually solve a problem?
Normally I wouldn't agree with any of Joe's comments, but honestly the EU is a JOKE! They act all high and mighty in the face of insignificant problems and run for the hills once a big one pops up.
From a national interest point of view the US has absolutely zero interest in Kosovo or its status. Only once they realized the mass incompetence of the EU were they forced to take the helm...again. Its easy top understand why the US wants Kosovo to be independent, no not for the general concern of Albanians there, but so they can finally get that monkey off their back once and for all.
I truly hope the next US President completely leaves Europe or EU, to its fate no matter what. I am sure they have far more pressing matters.
Oh please Doni again with your X-files style comments. Ya they are planning some big plans for another plan which might finally be the result for their 2nd draft plan that could be the resulting plan for their #1 plan for Kosovo.... you see how boring it sounds? the EU is paralyzed, there intention is to finish this but they have no legal or moral means of doing so hence the long pause in decision making.
Please, as an outsider to the whole saga don't patronize those of us who have ties there and spent more time than you know. You might have worked there with US troops or the UN and that now makes you a bonafide expert on the region right? As a Serb who had relatives expelled there in the late 1800's and can probably trace my family roots five times farther than you can, what words of wisdom can you chime in to make me/us feel better? Or any of you that are not from there? You remind me of those college professors who went there on one trip and they now know it all....control yourself.
I have said it again and again on this site and nothing will change...Independence will solve nothing. Kosovo will never prosper and will always depend on handouts whether they are from the UN/EU/US..or their relatives in Western Europe/US. Hopefully these people have nice bank accounts to keep their relatives happy about holding on to "THE CAUSE." Some of you living abroad like me should cut the cord like I did and start worrying about yourselves a little more and build up your own wealth. Maybe then the cycle of madness will end....
Do you know how many millions of Europeans - specially the French - predicted before you the imminent collapse of the US dollar and the end of the US?
Not just poor Eastern-Europeans but wealthier citizens of the EU envied and still envy the US for a much higher living standard and the political/military/diplomatic power of my country. In the mean time the French with their pro-US president became much more realistic.
But about the US dollar you are missing the key points. 1. It greatly helps our booming exports and starts to hurt key EU countries. 2. In the US we pay in dollars. 3. Practically everything is much cheaper by us than in Europe even if we would consider a dollar / euro parity. Food, clothing, gaz, etc almost twice more expensive in Europe. Even items like sending a letter from Germany to the US (1.40 euro) versus .90 dollar from here. 5.75 dollars for 20 aspirins in Italy according to the New York Times versus $2.45 here.
Your emotions (dislike or hatread) guide you. You take your wishes for realities.
I can tell you I would even like to see S1.70 for a euro to cut back our imports and increase our exports further. By such a rate Europe would be hurt badly. And the Chinease and the others exchanging their billions of dollars do you realize what would happen? For a short time the dollar would collapse and all those people would get 15-20 cents for a dollar. In Europe you would have soup-kitchen all over. At that time I would say to those who wished to see our collapse "Bon appetit medames, messieurs".
I had answered your comment in a way I think it was appropriate, unfortunately it was censored...
I was referring to your request not to write "dear friend" ...I am afraid, every sound person wouldn´t mind being addressed in that way, but you seem to have some problems with that.
but that will remain your problem. I can´t help you on that.
I will of course continue to write in a polite and friendly manner here, if you have problems with that...as already said above - your problem.
To Joe
Whether the Americans like it
or not the future is a united
Europe which will take
responsibilities for solving
the world's problems.Bush
cannot solve them because god
hasn't given him permission
yet.The weakness of the dollar doesn't depend on the
USA but how it s perceived by
the international markets.You
can only manage your way through by selling USA assets
to foreign countries which has its limits.I lived in USA
and if i had a second life i
would still live in Europe.In
Europe we have something that
is called society and which we value.In USA you're just
an individual and on your own.As to the soup-kitchens
this is common in USA and allien to Europeans.You only
have to visit a ghetto in
chicago or any other major
city and you get the picture.
As to your sniping that
Europeans envy or hate americans thats is not in our
character.By the way there
thousands of Americans living
in France.Did you ask them
why are they still living
there?
It looks like the Europeans are taking more of a lead in this process, and that's a good thing. We might actually have negotiations instead of what we've been having. My guess is the Americans finally realize they need help trying to make this happen. Otherwise it will only be the start of more trouble ahead.
Jasna's comments on Kosovo's
crisis shows that he doesn't
have a grasp on the problem
and his attempt to associate
it with the Albanians potential actions in other
countries of the region is a
non-starter.Is the Kosovo
solution subject to blackmail
by the Albanians of what they
may do in neighbouring countries?If that is the case
where is the clout of the EU.If Mr Jansa tries to push
Serbia against the wall(as
Slovenia has been doing up
to now)this will sour relations with Serbia for
msny years to come.Mr Jasna
will have to go back to the
UN charter,read it and then
try to apply the principles
of its founding members to
the problem of kosovo.What we
need mr Jasna is the application of international
law.
I think the EU has matured since Bosnia. They still are growing up, but I think they are up to the task. It is the US that is presenting a problem with its statements that it will support the unilateral declaration of independence. This is a European mess that Europe has to deal with since it is in Europe. Get the point? The US should take the back seat on this and let the Europeans prove their problem solving abilities instead of trying to ram this down their throats.
Wonder if this EU mouthpiece would be singing the same song if Kosovo was a part of Slovenia? I don't think so. It's always easier to blah, blah about someone else's backyard. These politicos are all so disgusting.
Wow, June! The prediction on independence really makes me laugh. There were so many dates by now that makes actually fell amused by this kinds of statemnets. Mr Jansa just forgot to mention the exact year. :)))))))
"Russia softens its stance against independence of Kosova.
Independent Kosovo not automatic solution for all states
[link]
Russia to recognize Kosovo only in case of Belgrade/Pristina consent(Part 2)
[link]
(laki NY, 24 December 2007 19:51)"
laki NY,
Please be more honest in your post. Your first link seems to imply that Moscow has changed its mind about opposing Kosovo's independence which is far from the truth. For example, the last paragraphs in the article stated that:'The Russian Foreign Ministry said last week Russia would undoubtedly apply its veto right in the UN Security Council if a decision on unilaterally proclaiming Kosovo independence was made.
Some other Security Council members, including Cyprus and Greece, have also voiced opposition to a unilateral declaration of sovereignty by Kosovo, fearing this could set a precedent for separatist regions on their territories'
Similarly your interpretation of the 2nd link is laughable. As the title clearly stated, Moscow would agree to Kosovo independence ONLY IF BELGRADE CONSENTS.
I don't mind reading views that are opposed to mine as everyone is entitled to their views. But I would appreciate that the facts presented be accurate. Thank you.
"Besides, it's too important for USA to just let go, for obvious reasons (geographical location).
Also, its sad to see Serbs rely on Russia and over exaggerate their military power, comparing it to the USA and saying USA are weakened by the Iraq war. Let me remind you of the military budget USA; 500 billion dollars, 450 billion more than russia which has a small 50 billion. "
Good Luck Jovan and co.
(Mirsad-LDD, 24 December 2007 18:28)"
Mirsad-LDD,
The US is truly seeking to let go but not for geographical reasons. The simple reason is that they have overstretched themselves from Iraq to Afghanistan -- why do you think they dared not go into Iran and Sudan big time even though they have been bad mouthing these countries for an eternity now???
The US has the world's biggest military budget that is true -- but this budget is spread woefully thin throughout their military facilities all over the world (Nato, Iraq, Afghanistan, S.Korea, Japan, Pacific etc). Not to mention that the wage bill of US military personnel are higher than those in Russia or non-West countries. So really, on a per location basis, the US budget is not all that great.
And the Americans are not exactly swimming in money at the moment -- they are in fact drowning in a sinking dollar and their subprime housing market problems -- their 2nd biggest bank Morgan Stanley had to sell US$5 bil of its stake to, of all people, COMMUNIST CHINA (!) and is now negotiating for another Asian country Singapore to buy a stake of the bank for another $5bil. Americans are losing their homes by the thousands from the subprime mortgage debacle and what do you think these people will do in the next elections (not very far away) if the US government tries to increase their military spending even further while their homes are repossessed? But that is a problem the Americans themselves will have to grapple with -- when both your government and citizens spend money that you don't have (I am talking respectively about the largest BOP deficit in the whole world and bankruptcies and foreclosures from failure to pay credit card bills and mortgages) the day of reckoning must come .....
By way of analogy, I suppose Slovenia breaking away from Yugoslavia could be a model for the Kurds breaking away from Turkey. The equivalent then would be for Greece to head the EU while Turkey has its territory taken away. I can't imagine that ever being allowed to happen - so why should Serbia have to experience something that has quite a strong equivalence?
I am amazed at the Slovenes having the cheek to say anything after starting the breakup of Yugoslavia. Best that they stayed quiet. They are the lucky ones - their troubles were minor compared with what happened elsewhere. By the way, the most strongly stated racism I have personally ever heard was in Slovenia. Also, more generically, they seem to want to be in the EU but to keep their country for themselves. I suspect that Slovenians have yet to learn the effect of EU membership includes substantial internal immigration.
I wonder why Slovenia gets to head the EU - it is very small. After all there are provinces and counties all over Europe that are bigger - why don't they get a go too?
This is hilarious. First it was november, then december, then january, and now they claim february or even some time by june. yeah just keep holding onto the false promises. I'm sure being "independent" means a lot more than having electricity and many other things. America promises eveything it cant never deliver on.
I've read quite an interesting artilce
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/24/world/europe/24serbia.html?em&ex=1198645200&en=d6b65d3350e588fa&ei=5087%0A
Really interesting. Quite a smart idea might i add.
I still cannot believe the albanian pro commentors who still think that there is some sort of "blatant political pattern" among all this. Amusing to see how many of them believe that a number of EU countries saying they will view kosovo as independent will deliver on their hopes for independence, but they dont realise that when it comes down to it, the EU countries still have no say. Troika talks may have fallen through, but it doesnt mean that they are over or that they will be discontinued. How ironic, serbia offers such a broad autonomy in which kosovo could have its own flag, government and national anthem and the albanians came to the talks armed only with their one word vocabularies - "no." I wonder why that is, oh yeah something in terms of a "greater albania" seems to echo through. Hmmm i wonder what it could all mean?
To Joe
The fact that EU has been unable to act as a world
leader is that certain members ie UK,Sweden,Finland
are totally against a common
approach to world problems.
They act as trojian horses for EU. They are against EU
common foreign policy,common
defense etc.As to your belief
that USA is stiil an empire
you only have to look at the
value of the dollar which is
an indicator to the strength
of tha country.The USA trade
and current account deficits
are just about manageable due
to courtesy of the Chinese
and the Arabs.However, things
are moving fast after the
decision by the bank of china
to convert most of their
foreign reserve holdings into
euros.In short, all empires
have a life span and in the
case of USA it is coming to
an end.
Another date? Once they say that five EU states oppose independence but the ones that don't will recognize it unilaterally, another time only one is against and they have "virtual unity", another time that another two EU states are backing negotiations on top of the known five, another time that the EU will be decided after December 19th after the UNSC meeting, next up possibly April, now by June... I really did not think the EU was so impotent on this matter. Maybe they are just being extra careful, or they really have no clue on how to handle this one. Hehe, there is a saying in Polish that goes:
"Niczego niewiadomo, Czeski film!"
This means: "Nobody knows anything, Czech movie!" (an allusion to when a Polish audience watches a Czech movie and nobody has a clue what is going on, same goes for the EU FMs when it comes to this whole Kosovo issue!).
I think that probably by the time the EU comes to a decision, Kosovo may have lost interest in the EU.
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