"New partners in case of Kosovo independence"

How short-sighted of any countries and the EU as a whole if they do recognise Kosovo's independence. Once the precendent is set, what about the safety of their own territories?

France, the UK, Germany and the other 'big' players may be relatively safe, but what about future territorial disputes among the smaller players?

Europe and the world will no longer be able to rely on the charters and laws which have kept us all protected and nations preserved for many years.

The entire order will be shifted and the EU and UN institutions undermined. As I keep on saying, this is not just about Kosovo but affects the whole of Europe and beyond. Whatever happened to integrity and legality?

I cannot see US and E.U. recognising an Albanian state in Koosovo during the current Bush administration, the Americans changed their minds as they have elections now and they just play with the Albanians to buy time so as to get the chance to break their promise.
As for Serbia, they should be a harder negotiator with the E.U. as everytime the E.U. will be offering more and more so as to get a consensus among its members to the matter.
The Kossovo issue must be met with an agreement from both sides, that what history taught us, otherwise in a few years time more trouble with start.

Well, the EU doesn't make an entire world. There is no reason to tolarate humiliation and there is no price for the human and national dignity. Besides, Asian market is huge and not really fully explored by Serbia. There is always chance for establishing new bilateral relations.

There wont be many countries that recognize illegal Kosovo.

The reasons?

It has nothing to do with international law, the EU and US don't care about that, but pure financial reasons.

One has to ask oneself, which are most important to the wests financial interests.

The market of 9 million serbs in a relatively developed balkan nation
or 2 million Kosovo albanians in a financial black hole?

The serbian government are showing the EU now that they cant have both markets, and every day we se new signals from EU and the US that they are considering the consequenses of recognizing illegal Kosovo.

After all finanical reasons will decide the outcome of Kosovos status.

Even if I understand the Kosovo albanians desire to become independent, let me ask the albanian side one question:

Do you think that an independent Kosovo is more important to EU than Serbia is?

And I am talking about financial importance now, not some "oh, we suffered during the slobo-regime and thats why EU HAS to give us independece" arguments

Afrim: "In Kosova's case, the winners are the albanians so therefore the albanians will set the rules, not the serbs."

Afrim - 'Winner' is such a horrible word to use about war, but as it's unavoidable - the 'winners' were Nato, not the KLA. They were used as a land army because of body bag syndrome in the US.

The KLA may have been part of the campaign (to Nato's shame) but they certainly weren't leading anything, and they are not setting the rules now. The US, EU and Russia will decide.

Olf - The EU now only thinks of recognising Kosovo as the easy option, but as it becomes more complex and the price is revealed they are very likely to put the brakes on. I am expecting a new plan to emerge which aims to satisfy both sides.

The EU have a clear choice to make come the 28th January. Support and uphold International law or follow the path of those who are anti-International law and against all the very foundations of sovereignity of States, the EU itself and international norms.

As for Serbia I am certain the elctorate will endorse Tadic but that he will need to clarify his perspective if the EU abandon all that he has stood for. The EU cannot enforce the partition of the UN recognised, Sovereign, European and democratic Republic of Serbia and they need to desist from any proposal that infringes upon Serbia's sovereignity if it truly does wish Serbia to be part of the EU "partnership" of "equal" states! EU must be told in no uncertain terms that their proposed mission can only happen with Serbian consent and the continuation of sovereignity and territorial integrity. Attempts based on Illegal concepts will be far from stabilising !!

Srboslav - sadly, for all of us, you are right. It is all about money.

It was always naive in the extreme for anyone to believe that 'humanitarian war' nonsense.

What's next? 'Morally Designated Mapping'?

BH_NYC: "Not recognising Kosovo(a)'s independence would send a wrong signal to other countries willing to deal with their minorities the way Milosevic did. This is why the world democratic countries will recognise independence."

Not at all. If such a message were to be sent it would have been done in 1999 when the war ended, but it wasn't. The UN and Serbia signed Resolution 1244 as the agreement to take them forward into the future.

Serbia now has a new government and it is many years on. Stripping 15% of her territory to 'send a message' would just be nonsensical and totally illegal.

I wouldn´t be so sure about Tadic.

but one thing is clear, and the newsweek-article has cut it short into one final passage at the end:
"With so much at stake, the West must ask itself whether a free Kosovo is worth further humiliating a volatile, Russia-backed Belgrade in the heart of the Balkans. This is one small, poor Eastern state that the EU may eventually want more than it wants the EU."

let´s just see what future brings.

The new partners of Serbia will be : North Korea, Iran,Venezuela and....Cuba.
Thats all.

Marios Vassiliou, just to remind you that EVERY SINGLE CANDIDATE in the US is for Kosova's Independence. More likely, Hillary Clinton will be the next US President and you know what that means.
Marios Vassiliou, What history taught us is that in wars there is winners and loosers, the winners set the rules not the loosers. In Kosova's case, the winners are the albanians so therefore the albanians will set the rules, not the serbs.
This international law that is now was set based in the victory of the second world war from USA and others so therefore these rules will be continued to be set by the winners still in this day also.

To pitty for the Albanians that they heard only for these countries that they meantioned in their posts. If I were you I would not underrate any of these countries as they are all doing far better than Kosovo and Albania.

Ahmet,

I know you were being sarcastic, but actually you have some points. Of the countries you mentioned I am sure Russia, Venezuela and Iran can provide all the energy Serbia will ever need in form of oil and Gas


Olf,
are you claiming that Kosovo is part of or will be part of greater Albania?
I am sure that that is the agenda for KLA politicians, but It would be interesting to hear the albanians here admit it...

But lets use our fantasy for a minute and say that Kosovo and Albania for a fact were the same country, do you think that it would be more of value than Serbia?

Just look at Albanias economy, they got rid of communism about the same time all other eastern european countries did, and in what condition is Albanias economy now in? Look at the other side of the border and take a look at Kosovos economy? Do you think that adding two bad economies equals one good?

Albania is in similar economic condition to Haiti, despite never having been under sanctions or had war, why is that?

And having some foregners financing and building a highway to the adriatic sea doesn't count as economical progress.

Blero,

You understood it wrong or it might sound as you understood since I did not think that I always have to clarify that Kosovo is Serbian province under Albanian rule at the moment.Or better say under UNMIK rule.I am just angry what has been done to Kosovo in the last 9 years. It is really sad to witness the destruction of the place that used to be decent. Therefore Blero, each time I say Kosovo I have in mind Kosovo as a Serbian province and everything else is just wrongly interpreted or wrongly expressed by me.

There are some albanian posters poking fun at countries that will support Serbia in their battle against Western hypocrisy.

Once "kosova" proclaims its illegal UDI. . .do you know who will be its strategic partners? Albania and FYRMacedonia! Once Serbia chokes 'kosova's' economy, these poor people will have to turn to the economic powerhouses of Albania and FYRMacedonia (strong sarcasm!) to sustain their livelihoods.

Wait? What's this about the EU and the US? You think that they're your 'strategic partners'? Do you think you're equals with them? Partners? THEY ARE YOUR NEW MASTERS! When they say jump. . .you'll say how high?

They have already dumped countless billions of euros/dollars into this criminal cesspool. . .they expect a return on this 'investment'. . .your aware of that, aren't you? They will exploit you until you're people/resources have nothing left to give!

That is if you have anything that will interest them. . .remember?. . .Trepca is controlled by the Serbs!

Mr. Secretary of State of Serbia I have list of your new future strategic partners, as follows: North Korea,BelaRussia,Iran, Venezuela and Cuba. Ops , I forgat mother Russia.
How is that for starter.
Enjoy your new strategic partners.

I just don’t think that Serbia will look for other partners than EU. After all, majority if not all Serbs in Serbia proper want EU integration. Will it be worth sacrificing the will of majority I am not sure, it’s up to Serbs to decide but I certainly think NO.

Many of you say that International law is being violated but that is only your point of view. Just because the UNSC, at the moment, does not adopt a new resolution acknowledging independence does not mean that the independence would be illegal act. At the UNSC it’s only Russia that is against the Independence no other significant factor but it does not mean that Russia is follower if International law. International law deals with the will of the majority of the population, with the sovereignty exercised under the territory and with the right to be sovereign of the population that once has nearly sent to extinction. All of these Serbia lacks in Kosova so has not right in any law to as for sovereignty of that territory.
I also would like to say that US, EU and most of UN members support the decision for Kosova’s Independence and that all of them have thought of the precedent that this might set and have found that this will not set e precedent.

Serbian camp can all day long say that Independence is against International law but this is not the case.

Serboslav
The market of 9 million serbs in a relatively developed balkan nation
or 2 million Kosovo albanians in a financial black hole?

You have made a mistake in saying market of 2 mil. There are 8 million Albanians is the region juts to put figures right.
Financial black hole and isolation stands for Serbia not for Kosova Albanians .

Q: Do you think that an independent Kosovo is more important to EU than Serbia is?

A: I think that EU will answer that very quickly

Srboslav said,

'Albania is in similar economic condition to Haiti, despite never having been under sanctions or had war, why is that?

Get the facts rights. A quick look at the World Bank website reveals:

Haiti GNI per capita in 2006 was USD 480.
Albania's GNI in 2005 was USD 2580. In 2006 reached 2950.
Serbia's GNI is USD 3220.
Bosnia 2005 GNI was 2680 USD.

It's not quite similar to Haiti Srboslav is it? And judging by the figures, there is only a ten percent difference between Albania and Serbia.

True, Albania has its own economic problems as many countries in the Balkans do. However, Albania is working and in the last five years has doubled its GDP. As you say, a one billion euro highway is being built between Kosova and Durres in the Adriatic see. Three billion barrels of oils and vast amounts of gas have been discovered in the fields between Durres and Shkodra. Economic prospects for Albania are bright and Kosova will benefit too.

Since independence, Slovenia has increased its GDP seven fold, Serbia has only now caught up with its pre-1990 output. Why is that Srboslav? If you are living in Serbia, look after yourself because your neighbours can do very well without your concern.

Kate: "The UN and Serbia signed Resolution 1244 as the agreement to take them forward into the future."

Kate, is 1244 a UNSC resolution or an agreement? There is a big difference between a UNSC resolution - that is voted at the UNSC by its members, and an agreement - that is basically a signed contract between two parties. An agreement is not voted, is signed; a resolution is not signed, is voted.
Serbia was not a member of the UNSC when Resolution 1244 was voted - in fact Serbia was not even a country at the time, but merely a republic of soveriegn country - therefore there no signature of Serbia anywhere in this resolution, nor is there a recorded vote of Serbia or Yugo regarding this resolution.

By confusing the two, you betray the fact that you don't quite understand the nature nor the content of the said resolution.

This is a desperate call for attention, which is understandable. However, if Tadic wins, Serbia will be streered towards the EU as he understands where the future lies. A stable, democratic and EU oriented Serbia also benefits Kosova and the whole region.

Yes, the independence of Kosova will set a very important precedent for any country that seeks to deal with its minorities in a heavy handed way as Serbia in did in Kosova throughout the 1980s-1990s - which is that if the international community is forced to intervene to protect that ethnicity from the brutality of the beligerent state, that state forfeits its right of sovereignty over that territory. This is the underlining argument against the return of Kosova under Serbian rule. Beyond this, there are no other precedents.

The spirit of any international law is to protect the rights of the people. When these rights were being violated and trampled upon in Kosova, Milosevic hypocritically called upon the protection of the international law to justify his deeds.

The main international law governing the present situation in Kosova is resolution 1244 which in its preamble 'Demands in particular that the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia put an immediate and verifiable end to violence and repression in Kosovo, and begin and complete verifiable phased withdrawal from Kosovo of all military, police and paramilitary forces according to a rapid timetable, with which the deployment of the international security presence in Kosovo will be synchronized.' It also states that prior to resolution 1244, the UN Security Council had adopted four other resolutions , 1160, 1199, 1203 and 1239 calling on the Yugoslav government to stop the repression of Albanians in Kosova and to transfer substantial autonomy to the province. Milosevic ignored all of them.

Furthermore, resolution 1244 says the future of Kosova would be determined by taking full account of the Rambouillet Accords which state that any future settlement will be determined 'on the basis OF THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE, opinions of relevant authorities, each party's efforts regarding the implementation of the Accords, and the Helsinki Final Act.'

These are the international documents governing the future status of Kosova and their message is clear. This is the reason why international law does not prohibit an independent Kosova and why the US and the most of EU support it.

If I were you I would not underrate any of these countries as they are all doing far better than Kosovo and Albania.

(bmrusila, 14 January 2008 13:02)

bmrusila,

Did you just say “countries” that are doing better than Kosovo?
Did you just upgrade Kosovo status to a country?
Woups, was that from typing to fast?

Ben,

"…where …. holydays ….you might come on holydays in Albania, we have not one but two seas…"

My favorite country for summer vacation is Greece….

Serbia needs to move twards europe. With in the EU or not but twards europe. I say fight for Kosovo but I say it living in the US. The people that live in Serbia need to decide if they want Kosovo or not. Serbia needs to have a vote on what it wants to do. I cant speak for the Serbian people while living in the US and they need to decide their own future. Serbia needs to vote! Minus Kosovo Albanians in the vote. Why not Kosovo Albanians? Because you say the will of the people 2 million Albanians not the will of people 10 million Serbians. So you should not be able to vote in what the Serbians want for their future. Vote for your future Serbia! And vote for president that will take you there.

"….If Kosovo/a is Serbian land through history then should England demand territory in the middle east and north america? How about Turkey? I'm sure they would love some land….."

Erhan, your arguments are standing on the head. Serbs are not the ones trying to create some mythical land based on (very) questionable interpretation of ancient history, (Dardania). Kosovo Albanians are. Serb only expect that their national suverenity and borders are respected, that's all.

If you are trying to imagine situation in other countries that would be equivalent to position where Serbia is at the moment, that would be more like if for example Pakistani immigrants would concentrate in the Cornwall, expel local Brits and then demand independence because they are majority and they wont their own state. Do you think that Great Britain would accept that?

Genc,

My favorite country for summer vacation is Greece….
(Stevan, 14 January 2008 17:44)

Not Serbia? Really not???
(genc, 14 January 2008 18:58)

No, usually not, because Serbia is my home, it’s nice to change surroundings for vacation. Although, in Greece, I feel at home as well.

As usual the Albanian camp is discounting Serbia's potential.
Pathetic attempts to ridicule Serbia as a country with limited business partners.
You have forgotten that China and India are very powerful countries economically and they will gladly do busines with Serbia. That's only two extra countries you neglected to add to the list. Who is going to do business with a charity case like Kosovo is the more important question here.

Laugh all you like Albanian camp but remember. He who laughs last......

Afrim Hoxha

"Marios Vassiliou, What history taught us is that in wars there is winners and loosers, the winners set the rules not the loosers. In Kosova's case, the winners are the albanians so therefore the albanians will set the rules, not the serbs. "

If Albanians were the winners, Kosovo would have been independent since 1999. Why aren't they? The West won the conflict, the West decides what when, the Kosovo Albanians wait for the West, Albanians do not decide anything. You are a pawn in the game, as is Serbia.

------------------------------

In any case, I think this is a very bad approach by the Serbian government. Isolating Serbia's economy from the developed world would harm only the people, not the pigheaded politicians who will stand their nationalistic ground over some land that many Serbs simply do not care about and can live just fine without.

I hope the Serbian government acts in the interests of its people, not in its own nationalistic interests. This is how Serbia lost Kosovo: they considered their nationalistic interests over the interests of the people.

To conclude: the Serbian government must take the interests of the people over anything else, because if Serbia isolates itself from the West and relies on trade from the developing world, they will find most of their young leaving Serbia for the West (in far greater numbers than they would if they were a part of the EU).

Just look at Albania. They are the most backward state in Europe (aside from Moldova, but this is only because Moldova's economy is base don agriculture). Why? 30 years of isolation does that to one's economy, that is why they lag far behind the rest of the continent. Serbia should not make the same mistake, because I can tell you now, most Serbs would prefer to live in a developed country with a good economy and good prospects than live in some third world nation because their government chose Kosovo.

Furthermore, resolution 1244 says the future of Kosova would be determined by taking full account of the Rambouillet Accords which state that any future settlement will be determined 'on the basis of the will of the people, OPINIONS OF RELEVANT AUTHORITIES, each party's efforts regarding the implementation of the Accords, and the Helsinki Final Act.'

I think you missed something important... Two relevant authorities here are Russia and China, both holding UNSC VETOs and strongly against independence. Period.

xefo wrote:
"Almost 4 milion Albaninas in Albania, 2 in Kosova, about 1 milion in Macedonia, half a milion in Cameria (Greece) + Presheva Valley & Montenegro its not equal 2 MILION."

Well lets count again, correctly this time:
3 Million in albania - 1 Milion left as immigrants = 2 Milions
Albs in Preshevo/Bujanovac are less than 50K.
Cameria does not exist in any map. So lets count again

2Millions in Alb + 1.5 Millions(Kosmet) + 50,000 (South Serbia) + 500,000 in Fyrom ~ 4 Millions in total (at best)

BH_NYC,
you do understand that Republic of Srpska will secede if Kosovo gets "independence", right? I frankly don't think it is in Bosniaks' interests to root for Kosovo Albanians in their illegal game.

Independence, per se, has plenty of precedents. But more pragmatically, you cannot go against the will of the people, especially if you have any belief whatsoever in democracy.

Which brings me to another point: it is hypocritical of Serb "democrats" to ask "why are we paying the price for Milosevic's policies?" Nobody is asking Serbia to pay a price, not yet, all that Albanians are asking is to be left alone and that Serb soldiers will never come to their houses again. That is what this conflict is all about and that's shy Albanians will have independence. Serbs have not even asked for forgiveness, so speaking of a compromise is ridiculous.

Not recognising Kosovo(a)'s independence would send a wrong signal to other countries willing to deal with their minorities the way Milosevic did. This is why the world democratic countries will recognise independence.

I am just angry what has been done to Kosovo in the last 9 years.

(bmrusila, 14 January 2008 14:40)


bmrusila,

No disrespect to your comment but being angry with what has been done to Kosovo in the last 9 years only is a huge understatement.
It took huge economical powers years to recover from economical slumber.
Unfortunately Kosovo’s present economical situation cannot be related to what has happened in the last 9 years.
Kosovo has been always treated as an orphan by Serbia (unwanted child – good only for exploitation).
Please do not say it is not the case, because like it or not it is.

The present economical problems in Kosovo are simply o result of 55 years of neglect and not of the last 9 years as you have noted. We accept that it has not happened as fast as we wished but lots of decisions were beyond our control (we aim to rectify this, hopefully for better).

And as much as you might find hard to believe it, Kosovo is decent place.
We (in the same way Serbia does) have to deal with a lot of problems that face places that have gone though a war.
Have a look at the Old Eastern Block countries. Some of them are still facing huge problems and will do for a long time to come (and none of them had to go though what we did).
Can we say that they are experiencing the problems because what happened in the last 10 years.
No we cannot.

We know that there are hard times ahead but we are ready to face them.

(kate, 14 January 2008 15:08)

No, Kate. What that actually means is, The EU is doing the right thing without setting a precedent you (and many others) were 'worried'' about.

Pejoni,

Yes I have lived in Kosovo prior to war for few years and after the war for few years. You cannot say that Kosovo was black hole before the war, you are simply not right. You are saying that Kosovo is booming, at least Albanan side. Do you suggest that this construction works represent any kind of parametar for prospering economy? What I have seen the last time, there was totaly destroyed infrastracture, nothing has been invested in maintanace. People live poorer and uneployment rate is over 60%. This is what is relevant in my opinion. The surface that you see in the form of construction says nothoing to me since don't know the purpose. I guess according to you the glowing buildings imply progress. You said that North is commies place. That what you said is not true because I have seen by my eyes Leposavic Municipality that I thougt once it will be the blackest hole of all black holes. I was surprised positively. But it was only the surface but when you surfe deeper then you see
people still stragle with finding jobs, everyday surviving. Furthermore you speak about the freedom. Maybe Albanians do live in freedom but the freedom you sepak about it Serbs cannot enjoy it, have no chance of experiencing it. There is no freedom for Serbs. You have never lived behind barbed wires and you could always freely speak your language everywhere without being beaten, you could work freely if wanted so (I know Albanians that did work). Everything you did you did it freely and it was your choice whether you gonna boycotte it or accept it. The fact is that you could but you did not want. Serbs have no choice nowadays in Kosovo. Then you said Trepca was exploited by Belgrade while Kosovo was starving. Well, it is very debateble. I see it so that Trepca belongs to Serbia and that Serbia had to and had every right to explote it. However Kosovo was not starving because Serbs but also ex Yugoslavs did invest their money in Kosovo thru different funds for Kosovo development. And everything that was built in Kosovo was built either by ex Yugoslavs or by Serbs afterwards. I don't have to remind you that Albanians were ruling in Kosovo when the huge amount of money was coming each month from the ex Yugoslavs. The money was misused and therfore Kosovo left underdeveloped.

Blero,

I think that I briefy explained my beliefes to Pejoni in regard to exploitation and Serbia's treatment of its own orphan as you put it. And for the last 9 years i don't blame much Albanians as I do blame IC. IC failed in every field overthere with tendency of further and deeper failure.

"France, the UK, Germany and the other 'big' players may be relatively safe, but what about future territorial disputes among the smaller players? "

The sword is shaped to cut both ways. That's the beauty or nightmare of life. View it as you will.

If Kosovo/a is Serbian land through history then should England demand territory in the middle east and north america? How about Turkey? I'm sure they would love some land.

What about future territorial disputes? What about committing murders as a state and not having any consequences? Just replace a few officials and continue on with oppression? How about setting a foundation for that?

You make is seem as if the other side of the coin is so rosy because it suits your belief.

Reality bites, doesn't it?

Serbia is in Europe, EU will be her strategic partner. Period.

Stop with this cheep and ridiculous “autolesionistic” bluffing- If you go away I’ll kill myself : )nobody gonna buy that.

Why the Serbian politician continua with this silly bluffing?
They are behaving like small children’s ‘with me or against me’. Do they believe, they will intimidate EU and US? I am bigger then kosova so support me? Will you understand what the whole world knows that Kosova is a case of national freedom, that’s why the US and EU is supporting the kosovas independence.

Serbia is surrounded by EU countries and just to remember you don’t have access in the sea...
where are you going in holydays next summer in Belorussia? if you recognize Kosova and normalize the relations with the Albanians you might come on holydays in Albania, we have not one but two seas : )

"It is really sad to witness the destruction of the place that used to be decent."

(bmrusila, 14 January 2008 14:40)

Have you lived in Kosova prior to the war and efter?? Today the ppl live in freedom, the contruction rate is the highest per capita in EUROPE! Befor the war, Kosova looked like black hole and every money coming from Trepca mining where invested in Serbia while Kosova was starving! Even today you can see where the Albanian side is booming while the northern part is day by day looking like commie place.

Kosova never was serbian Teritory and never was under suverenity and integrity. Albanians never were minority. What is going to happen with Kosova is same what happend with other repulics in ex YU. It is something else what serbia did with Kosova. Kosova was occupied many times by serbia. Now is time Kosova to be free. It is better for Serbia and Serbs and also for Albanians if Serbia accept fatcs that Kosova should be Independent and opened country for everybody who want to live in Kosova and to visit it. It is better if we as independent countries join Europe. We both will benefit from this. It is time to live behind all things that made us enemies. Key for the door which will send us both in better future with fully cooperation, peace and prosperity are in Serbian hand. It is time to use that key and open the door for all of us who live in Balkans.

Srboslav wrote: "The market of 9 million serbs in a relatively developed balkan nation
or 2 million Kosovo albanians in a financial black hole?....Dont make us laugh! Cant you count? Almost 4 milion Albaninas in Albania, 2 in Kosova, about 1 milion in Macedonia, half a milion in Cameria (Greece) + Presheva Valley & Montenegro its not equal 2 MILION.

:) 4,050,000 Pyrros

"New partners in case of Kosovo independence"

Oh, really?

Well, who is standing on your way Serbia?

Just Go ahead! What's stoping you?

EU and USA have made it clear that black mail and threats are not welcome, now it remains to be seen if the serbian people will accept to be blackmailed by their own politicians this way.

Wrong Pyrros, wrong...

kosovo ,a precedent? Of course it will be a précedent for all the dictators who think they can kill and destroy their people without any consequences!

Just as the killing of Louis 16 was a précedent,just as the independance of the united states of america was a precedent,and further more a precedent for liberty, that inspired the all world !
kosovo will be the precedent for what is the price of your horrible crimes as nation,who committed 4 wars,thousand of deaths and masscres!
kosovo will be independent and it will be just justice!

Lili, politics is the art of possible, not "just justice".

If "just justice" was used as a yardstick, chances are there would be no mentioning of any kind of independence, supervised, unsupervised or imagined.

You speak of horrendous crimes that happened in Kosovo. Can you clarify somethinge? How do you see horrendous crimes against Kosovo Albanians commited by KLA narcoterrorist goons? More than 1000 Kosovo Albanians are murdered by KLA terrorists after June 10 1999 and similar number of Kosovo Albanians was murdered before March 24 1999 by the very same KLA terrorists.

I do not mention muredered Serbs and Roma on purpose.

Do you believe that giving independence to narcoterrorist goons who murder their own in order to provoke international
intervention has to do anything with "just justice", or it has to do something with political interests of outside powers who used Kosovo Albanians as their device?

Chances are, that you know somebody murdered by KLA. Can you share your thoughts about it, using your real name.

My favorite country for summer vacation is Greece….
(Stevan, 14 January 2008 17:44)

Not Serbia? Really not???

BH_NYC,
you do understand that Republic of Srpska will secede if Kosovo gets "independence", right? I frankly don't think it is in Bosniaks' interests to root for Kosovo Albanians in their illegal game.
(Peter R., 14 January 2008 19:57)

The west is getting a bit fed up with Serbian Government’s arrogant attitude and any such moves would be met with nothing less but a complete economic embargo. Would the Russians then carry out their investment plans in Serbia? Of course not. This would be a perfect way to teach some of your politicians a lesson and keep the Russians away from the Balkans at the same time.

"Erhan, your arguments are standing on the head. Serbs are not the ones trying to create some mythical land based on (very) questionable interpretation of ancient history, (Dardania)."

Questionable History? You didn't just say that. Most historical "facts" are questionable. This depends where you were raised and taught about history. If you live in a more "free" society then you get more perspectives of history which makes for more questions. But, Serbia is as much of a mythical place as is any other distinguished border. If one keeps going back in time all these borders would become obsolete. In what moment did time stop and any of these "real" borders make sense. They have been changing all the time. Why does time stop in Serbia?

Serbia would have had a decent argument in retaining the already autonomous province IF it didn't act like it did in the past.

Mr. Secretary of State of Serbia I have list of your new future strategic partners, as follows: North Korea,BelaRussia,Iran, Venezuela and Cuba. Ops , I forgat mother Russia.
How is that for starter.
Enjoy your new strategic partners.

Serbia is in Europe, EU will be her strategic partner. Period.

Stop with this cheep and ridiculous “autolesionistic” bluffing- If you go away I’ll kill myself : )nobody gonna buy that.

Why the Serbian politician continua with this silly bluffing?
They are behaving like small children’s ‘with me or against me’. Do they believe, they will intimidate EU and US? I am bigger then kosova so support me? Will you understand what the whole world knows that Kosova is a case of national freedom, that’s why the US and EU is supporting the kosovas independence.

Serbia is surrounded by EU countries and just to remember you don’t have access in the sea...
where are you going in holydays next summer in Belorussia? if you recognize Kosova and normalize the relations with the Albanians you might come on holydays in Albania, we have not one but two seas : )

The new partners of Serbia will be : North Korea, Iran,Venezuela and....Cuba.
Thats all.

Marios Vassiliou, just to remind you that EVERY SINGLE CANDIDATE in the US is for Kosova's Independence. More likely, Hillary Clinton will be the next US President and you know what that means.
Marios Vassiliou, What history taught us is that in wars there is winners and loosers, the winners set the rules not the loosers. In Kosova's case, the winners are the albanians so therefore the albanians will set the rules, not the serbs.
This international law that is now was set based in the victory of the second world war from USA and others so therefore these rules will be continued to be set by the winners still in this day also.

I just don’t think that Serbia will look for other partners than EU. After all, majority if not all Serbs in Serbia proper want EU integration. Will it be worth sacrificing the will of majority I am not sure, it’s up to Serbs to decide but I certainly think NO.

Many of you say that International law is being violated but that is only your point of view. Just because the UNSC, at the moment, does not adopt a new resolution acknowledging independence does not mean that the independence would be illegal act. At the UNSC it’s only Russia that is against the Independence no other significant factor but it does not mean that Russia is follower if International law. International law deals with the will of the majority of the population, with the sovereignty exercised under the territory and with the right to be sovereign of the population that once has nearly sent to extinction. All of these Serbia lacks in Kosova so has not right in any law to as for sovereignty of that territory.
I also would like to say that US, EU and most of UN members support the decision for Kosova’s Independence and that all of them have thought of the precedent that this might set and have found that this will not set e precedent.

Serbian camp can all day long say that Independence is against International law but this is not the case.

Serboslav
The market of 9 million serbs in a relatively developed balkan nation
or 2 million Kosovo albanians in a financial black hole?

You have made a mistake in saying market of 2 mil. There are 8 million Albanians is the region juts to put figures right.
Financial black hole and isolation stands for Serbia not for Kosova Albanians .

Q: Do you think that an independent Kosovo is more important to EU than Serbia is?

A: I think that EU will answer that very quickly

This is a desperate call for attention, which is understandable. However, if Tadic wins, Serbia will be streered towards the EU as he understands where the future lies. A stable, democratic and EU oriented Serbia also benefits Kosova and the whole region.

Yes, the independence of Kosova will set a very important precedent for any country that seeks to deal with its minorities in a heavy handed way as Serbia in did in Kosova throughout the 1980s-1990s - which is that if the international community is forced to intervene to protect that ethnicity from the brutality of the beligerent state, that state forfeits its right of sovereignty over that territory. This is the underlining argument against the return of Kosova under Serbian rule. Beyond this, there are no other precedents.

The spirit of any international law is to protect the rights of the people. When these rights were being violated and trampled upon in Kosova, Milosevic hypocritically called upon the protection of the international law to justify his deeds.

The main international law governing the present situation in Kosova is resolution 1244 which in its preamble 'Demands in particular that the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia put an immediate and verifiable end to violence and repression in Kosovo, and begin and complete verifiable phased withdrawal from Kosovo of all military, police and paramilitary forces according to a rapid timetable, with which the deployment of the international security presence in Kosovo will be synchronized.' It also states that prior to resolution 1244, the UN Security Council had adopted four other resolutions , 1160, 1199, 1203 and 1239 calling on the Yugoslav government to stop the repression of Albanians in Kosova and to transfer substantial autonomy to the province. Milosevic ignored all of them.

Furthermore, resolution 1244 says the future of Kosova would be determined by taking full account of the Rambouillet Accords which state that any future settlement will be determined 'on the basis OF THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE, opinions of relevant authorities, each party's efforts regarding the implementation of the Accords, and the Helsinki Final Act.'

These are the international documents governing the future status of Kosova and their message is clear. This is the reason why international law does not prohibit an independent Kosova and why the US and the most of EU support it.

Not recognising Kosovo(a)'s independence would send a wrong signal to other countries willing to deal with their minorities the way Milosevic did. This is why the world democratic countries will recognise independence.

I am just angry what has been done to Kosovo in the last 9 years.

(bmrusila, 14 January 2008 14:40)


bmrusila,

No disrespect to your comment but being angry with what has been done to Kosovo in the last 9 years only is a huge understatement.
It took huge economical powers years to recover from economical slumber.
Unfortunately Kosovo’s present economical situation cannot be related to what has happened in the last 9 years.
Kosovo has been always treated as an orphan by Serbia (unwanted child – good only for exploitation).
Please do not say it is not the case, because like it or not it is.

The present economical problems in Kosovo are simply o result of 55 years of neglect and not of the last 9 years as you have noted. We accept that it has not happened as fast as we wished but lots of decisions were beyond our control (we aim to rectify this, hopefully for better).

And as much as you might find hard to believe it, Kosovo is decent place.
We (in the same way Serbia does) have to deal with a lot of problems that face places that have gone though a war.
Have a look at the Old Eastern Block countries. Some of them are still facing huge problems and will do for a long time to come (and none of them had to go though what we did).
Can we say that they are experiencing the problems because what happened in the last 10 years.
No we cannot.

We know that there are hard times ahead but we are ready to face them.

Kate: "The UN and Serbia signed Resolution 1244 as the agreement to take them forward into the future."

Kate, is 1244 a UNSC resolution or an agreement? There is a big difference between a UNSC resolution - that is voted at the UNSC by its members, and an agreement - that is basically a signed contract between two parties. An agreement is not voted, is signed; a resolution is not signed, is voted.
Serbia was not a member of the UNSC when Resolution 1244 was voted - in fact Serbia was not even a country at the time, but merely a republic of soveriegn country - therefore there no signature of Serbia anywhere in this resolution, nor is there a recorded vote of Serbia or Yugo regarding this resolution.

By confusing the two, you betray the fact that you don't quite understand the nature nor the content of the said resolution.

If I were you I would not underrate any of these countries as they are all doing far better than Kosovo and Albania.

(bmrusila, 14 January 2008 13:02)

bmrusila,

Did you just say “countries” that are doing better than Kosovo?
Did you just upgrade Kosovo status to a country?
Woups, was that from typing to fast?

Srboslav said,

'Albania is in similar economic condition to Haiti, despite never having been under sanctions or had war, why is that?

Get the facts rights. A quick look at the World Bank website reveals:

Haiti GNI per capita in 2006 was USD 480.
Albania's GNI in 2005 was USD 2580. In 2006 reached 2950.
Serbia's GNI is USD 3220.
Bosnia 2005 GNI was 2680 USD.

It's not quite similar to Haiti Srboslav is it? And judging by the figures, there is only a ten percent difference between Albania and Serbia.

True, Albania has its own economic problems as many countries in the Balkans do. However, Albania is working and in the last five years has doubled its GDP. As you say, a one billion euro highway is being built between Kosova and Durres in the Adriatic see. Three billion barrels of oils and vast amounts of gas have been discovered in the fields between Durres and Shkodra. Economic prospects for Albania are bright and Kosova will benefit too.

Since independence, Slovenia has increased its GDP seven fold, Serbia has only now caught up with its pre-1990 output. Why is that Srboslav? If you are living in Serbia, look after yourself because your neighbours can do very well without your concern.

"It is really sad to witness the destruction of the place that used to be decent."

(bmrusila, 14 January 2008 14:40)

Have you lived in Kosova prior to the war and efter?? Today the ppl live in freedom, the contruction rate is the highest per capita in EUROPE! Befor the war, Kosova looked like black hole and every money coming from Trepca mining where invested in Serbia while Kosova was starving! Even today you can see where the Albanian side is booming while the northern part is day by day looking like commie place.

Kosova never was serbian Teritory and never was under suverenity and integrity. Albanians never were minority. What is going to happen with Kosova is same what happend with other repulics in ex YU. It is something else what serbia did with Kosova. Kosova was occupied many times by serbia. Now is time Kosova to be free. It is better for Serbia and Serbs and also for Albanians if Serbia accept fatcs that Kosova should be Independent and opened country for everybody who want to live in Kosova and to visit it. It is better if we as independent countries join Europe. We both will benefit from this. It is time to live behind all things that made us enemies. Key for the door which will send us both in better future with fully cooperation, peace and prosperity are in Serbian hand. It is time to use that key and open the door for all of us who live in Balkans.

(kate, 14 January 2008 15:08)

No, Kate. What that actually means is, The EU is doing the right thing without setting a precedent you (and many others) were 'worried'' about.

Srboslav wrote: "The market of 9 million serbs in a relatively developed balkan nation
or 2 million Kosovo albanians in a financial black hole?....Dont make us laugh! Cant you count? Almost 4 milion Albaninas in Albania, 2 in Kosova, about 1 milion in Macedonia, half a milion in Cameria (Greece) + Presheva Valley & Montenegro its not equal 2 MILION.

"France, the UK, Germany and the other 'big' players may be relatively safe, but what about future territorial disputes among the smaller players? "

The sword is shaped to cut both ways. That's the beauty or nightmare of life. View it as you will.

If Kosovo/a is Serbian land through history then should England demand territory in the middle east and north america? How about Turkey? I'm sure they would love some land.

What about future territorial disputes? What about committing murders as a state and not having any consequences? Just replace a few officials and continue on with oppression? How about setting a foundation for that?

You make is seem as if the other side of the coin is so rosy because it suits your belief.

Reality bites, doesn't it?

I cannot see US and E.U. recognising an Albanian state in Koosovo during the current Bush administration, the Americans changed their minds as they have elections now and they just play with the Albanians to buy time so as to get the chance to break their promise.
As for Serbia, they should be a harder negotiator with the E.U. as everytime the E.U. will be offering more and more so as to get a consensus among its members to the matter.
The Kossovo issue must be met with an agreement from both sides, that what history taught us, otherwise in a few years time more trouble with start.

There wont be many countries that recognize illegal Kosovo.

The reasons?

It has nothing to do with international law, the EU and US don't care about that, but pure financial reasons.

One has to ask oneself, which are most important to the wests financial interests.

The market of 9 million serbs in a relatively developed balkan nation
or 2 million Kosovo albanians in a financial black hole?

The serbian government are showing the EU now that they cant have both markets, and every day we se new signals from EU and the US that they are considering the consequenses of recognizing illegal Kosovo.

After all finanical reasons will decide the outcome of Kosovos status.

Even if I understand the Kosovo albanians desire to become independent, let me ask the albanian side one question:

Do you think that an independent Kosovo is more important to EU than Serbia is?

And I am talking about financial importance now, not some "oh, we suffered during the slobo-regime and thats why EU HAS to give us independece" arguments

Srboslav - sadly, for all of us, you are right. It is all about money.

It was always naive in the extreme for anyone to believe that 'humanitarian war' nonsense.

What's next? 'Morally Designated Mapping'?

Afrim: "In Kosova's case, the winners are the albanians so therefore the albanians will set the rules, not the serbs."

Afrim - 'Winner' is such a horrible word to use about war, but as it's unavoidable - the 'winners' were Nato, not the KLA. They were used as a land army because of body bag syndrome in the US.

The KLA may have been part of the campaign (to Nato's shame) but they certainly weren't leading anything, and they are not setting the rules now. The US, EU and Russia will decide.

Olf - The EU now only thinks of recognising Kosovo as the easy option, but as it becomes more complex and the price is revealed they are very likely to put the brakes on. I am expecting a new plan to emerge which aims to satisfy both sides.

Afrim Hoxha

"Marios Vassiliou, What history taught us is that in wars there is winners and loosers, the winners set the rules not the loosers. In Kosova's case, the winners are the albanians so therefore the albanians will set the rules, not the serbs. "

If Albanians were the winners, Kosovo would have been independent since 1999. Why aren't they? The West won the conflict, the West decides what when, the Kosovo Albanians wait for the West, Albanians do not decide anything. You are a pawn in the game, as is Serbia.

------------------------------

In any case, I think this is a very bad approach by the Serbian government. Isolating Serbia's economy from the developed world would harm only the people, not the pigheaded politicians who will stand their nationalistic ground over some land that many Serbs simply do not care about and can live just fine without.

I hope the Serbian government acts in the interests of its people, not in its own nationalistic interests. This is how Serbia lost Kosovo: they considered their nationalistic interests over the interests of the people.

To conclude: the Serbian government must take the interests of the people over anything else, because if Serbia isolates itself from the West and relies on trade from the developing world, they will find most of their young leaving Serbia for the West (in far greater numbers than they would if they were a part of the EU).

Just look at Albania. They are the most backward state in Europe (aside from Moldova, but this is only because Moldova's economy is base don agriculture). Why? 30 years of isolation does that to one's economy, that is why they lag far behind the rest of the continent. Serbia should not make the same mistake, because I can tell you now, most Serbs would prefer to live in a developed country with a good economy and good prospects than live in some third world nation because their government chose Kosovo.

Independence, per se, has plenty of precedents. But more pragmatically, you cannot go against the will of the people, especially if you have any belief whatsoever in democracy.

Which brings me to another point: it is hypocritical of Serb "democrats" to ask "why are we paying the price for Milosevic's policies?" Nobody is asking Serbia to pay a price, not yet, all that Albanians are asking is to be left alone and that Serb soldiers will never come to their houses again. That is what this conflict is all about and that's shy Albanians will have independence. Serbs have not even asked for forgiveness, so speaking of a compromise is ridiculous.

The EU have a clear choice to make come the 28th January. Support and uphold International law or follow the path of those who are anti-International law and against all the very foundations of sovereignity of States, the EU itself and international norms.

As for Serbia I am certain the elctorate will endorse Tadic but that he will need to clarify his perspective if the EU abandon all that he has stood for. The EU cannot enforce the partition of the UN recognised, Sovereign, European and democratic Republic of Serbia and they need to desist from any proposal that infringes upon Serbia's sovereignity if it truly does wish Serbia to be part of the EU "partnership" of "equal" states! EU must be told in no uncertain terms that their proposed mission can only happen with Serbian consent and the continuation of sovereignity and territorial integrity. Attempts based on Illegal concepts will be far from stabilising !!

Well, the EU doesn't make an entire world. There is no reason to tolarate humiliation and there is no price for the human and national dignity. Besides, Asian market is huge and not really fully explored by Serbia. There is always chance for establishing new bilateral relations.

I wouldn´t be so sure about Tadic.

but one thing is clear, and the newsweek-article has cut it short into one final passage at the end:
"With so much at stake, the West must ask itself whether a free Kosovo is worth further humiliating a volatile, Russia-backed Belgrade in the heart of the Balkans. This is one small, poor Eastern state that the EU may eventually want more than it wants the EU."

let´s just see what future brings.

To pitty for the Albanians that they heard only for these countries that they meantioned in their posts. If I were you I would not underrate any of these countries as they are all doing far better than Kosovo and Albania.

Ahmet,

I know you were being sarcastic, but actually you have some points. Of the countries you mentioned I am sure Russia, Venezuela and Iran can provide all the energy Serbia will ever need in form of oil and Gas


Olf,
are you claiming that Kosovo is part of or will be part of greater Albania?
I am sure that that is the agenda for KLA politicians, but It would be interesting to hear the albanians here admit it...

But lets use our fantasy for a minute and say that Kosovo and Albania for a fact were the same country, do you think that it would be more of value than Serbia?

Just look at Albanias economy, they got rid of communism about the same time all other eastern european countries did, and in what condition is Albanias economy now in? Look at the other side of the border and take a look at Kosovos economy? Do you think that adding two bad economies equals one good?

Albania is in similar economic condition to Haiti, despite never having been under sanctions or had war, why is that?

And having some foregners financing and building a highway to the adriatic sea doesn't count as economical progress.

Blero,

You understood it wrong or it might sound as you understood since I did not think that I always have to clarify that Kosovo is Serbian province under Albanian rule at the moment.Or better say under UNMIK rule.I am just angry what has been done to Kosovo in the last 9 years. It is really sad to witness the destruction of the place that used to be decent. Therefore Blero, each time I say Kosovo I have in mind Kosovo as a Serbian province and everything else is just wrongly interpreted or wrongly expressed by me.

BH_NYC: "Not recognising Kosovo(a)'s independence would send a wrong signal to other countries willing to deal with their minorities the way Milosevic did. This is why the world democratic countries will recognise independence."

Not at all. If such a message were to be sent it would have been done in 1999 when the war ended, but it wasn't. The UN and Serbia signed Resolution 1244 as the agreement to take them forward into the future.

Serbia now has a new government and it is many years on. Stripping 15% of her territory to 'send a message' would just be nonsensical and totally illegal.

There are some albanian posters poking fun at countries that will support Serbia in their battle against Western hypocrisy.

Once "kosova" proclaims its illegal UDI. . .do you know who will be its strategic partners? Albania and FYRMacedonia! Once Serbia chokes 'kosova's' economy, these poor people will have to turn to the economic powerhouses of Albania and FYRMacedonia (strong sarcasm!) to sustain their livelihoods.

Wait? What's this about the EU and the US? You think that they're your 'strategic partners'? Do you think you're equals with them? Partners? THEY ARE YOUR NEW MASTERS! When they say jump. . .you'll say how high?

They have already dumped countless billions of euros/dollars into this criminal cesspool. . .they expect a return on this 'investment'. . .your aware of that, aren't you? They will exploit you until you're people/resources have nothing left to give!

That is if you have anything that will interest them. . .remember?. . .Trepca is controlled by the Serbs!

Serbia needs to move twards europe. With in the EU or not but twards europe. I say fight for Kosovo but I say it living in the US. The people that live in Serbia need to decide if they want Kosovo or not. Serbia needs to have a vote on what it wants to do. I cant speak for the Serbian people while living in the US and they need to decide their own future. Serbia needs to vote! Minus Kosovo Albanians in the vote. Why not Kosovo Albanians? Because you say the will of the people 2 million Albanians not the will of people 10 million Serbians. So you should not be able to vote in what the Serbians want for their future. Vote for your future Serbia! And vote for president that will take you there.

"New partners in case of Kosovo independence"

Oh, really?

Well, who is standing on your way Serbia?

Just Go ahead! What's stoping you?

EU and USA have made it clear that black mail and threats are not welcome, now it remains to be seen if the serbian people will accept to be blackmailed by their own politicians this way.

BH_NYC,
you do understand that Republic of Srpska will secede if Kosovo gets "independence", right? I frankly don't think it is in Bosniaks' interests to root for Kosovo Albanians in their illegal game.
(Peter R., 14 January 2008 19:57)

The west is getting a bit fed up with Serbian Government’s arrogant attitude and any such moves would be met with nothing less but a complete economic embargo. Would the Russians then carry out their investment plans in Serbia? Of course not. This would be a perfect way to teach some of your politicians a lesson and keep the Russians away from the Balkans at the same time.

Wrong Pyrros, wrong...

kosovo ,a precedent? Of course it will be a précedent for all the dictators who think they can kill and destroy their people without any consequences!

Just as the killing of Louis 16 was a précedent,just as the independance of the united states of america was a precedent,and further more a precedent for liberty, that inspired the all world !
kosovo will be the precedent for what is the price of your horrible crimes as nation,who committed 4 wars,thousand of deaths and masscres!
kosovo will be independent and it will be just justice!

How short-sighted of any countries and the EU as a whole if they do recognise Kosovo's independence. Once the precendent is set, what about the safety of their own territories?

France, the UK, Germany and the other 'big' players may be relatively safe, but what about future territorial disputes among the smaller players?

Europe and the world will no longer be able to rely on the charters and laws which have kept us all protected and nations preserved for many years.

The entire order will be shifted and the EU and UN institutions undermined. As I keep on saying, this is not just about Kosovo but affects the whole of Europe and beyond. Whatever happened to integrity and legality?

Ben,

"…where …. holydays ….you might come on holydays in Albania, we have not one but two seas…"

My favorite country for summer vacation is Greece….

My favorite country for summer vacation is Greece….
(Stevan, 14 January 2008 17:44)

Not Serbia? Really not???

Pejoni,

Yes I have lived in Kosovo prior to war for few years and after the war for few years. You cannot say that Kosovo was black hole before the war, you are simply not right. You are saying that Kosovo is booming, at least Albanan side. Do you suggest that this construction works represent any kind of parametar for prospering economy? What I have seen the last time, there was totaly destroyed infrastracture, nothing has been invested in maintanace. People live poorer and uneployment rate is over 60%. This is what is relevant in my opinion. The surface that you see in the form of construction says nothoing to me since don't know the purpose. I guess according to you the glowing buildings imply progress. You said that North is commies place. That what you said is not true because I have seen by my eyes Leposavic Municipality that I thougt once it will be the blackest hole of all black holes. I was surprised positively. But it was only the surface but when you surfe deeper then you see
people still stragle with finding jobs, everyday surviving. Furthermore you speak about the freedom. Maybe Albanians do live in freedom but the freedom you sepak about it Serbs cannot enjoy it, have no chance of experiencing it. There is no freedom for Serbs. You have never lived behind barbed wires and you could always freely speak your language everywhere without being beaten, you could work freely if wanted so (I know Albanians that did work). Everything you did you did it freely and it was your choice whether you gonna boycotte it or accept it. The fact is that you could but you did not want. Serbs have no choice nowadays in Kosovo. Then you said Trepca was exploited by Belgrade while Kosovo was starving. Well, it is very debateble. I see it so that Trepca belongs to Serbia and that Serbia had to and had every right to explote it. However Kosovo was not starving because Serbs but also ex Yugoslavs did invest their money in Kosovo thru different funds for Kosovo development. And everything that was built in Kosovo was built either by ex Yugoslavs or by Serbs afterwards. I don't have to remind you that Albanians were ruling in Kosovo when the huge amount of money was coming each month from the ex Yugoslavs. The money was misused and therfore Kosovo left underdeveloped.

Blero,

I think that I briefy explained my beliefes to Pejoni in regard to exploitation and Serbia's treatment of its own orphan as you put it. And for the last 9 years i don't blame much Albanians as I do blame IC. IC failed in every field overthere with tendency of further and deeper failure.

BH_NYC,
you do understand that Republic of Srpska will secede if Kosovo gets "independence", right? I frankly don't think it is in Bosniaks' interests to root for Kosovo Albanians in their illegal game.

xefo wrote:
"Almost 4 milion Albaninas in Albania, 2 in Kosova, about 1 milion in Macedonia, half a milion in Cameria (Greece) + Presheva Valley & Montenegro its not equal 2 MILION."

Well lets count again, correctly this time:
3 Million in albania - 1 Milion left as immigrants = 2 Milions
Albs in Preshevo/Bujanovac are less than 50K.
Cameria does not exist in any map. So lets count again

2Millions in Alb + 1.5 Millions(Kosmet) + 50,000 (South Serbia) + 500,000 in Fyrom ~ 4 Millions in total (at best)

:) 4,050,000 Pyrros

"Erhan, your arguments are standing on the head. Serbs are not the ones trying to create some mythical land based on (very) questionable interpretation of ancient history, (Dardania)."

Questionable History? You didn't just say that. Most historical "facts" are questionable. This depends where you were raised and taught about history. If you live in a more "free" society then you get more perspectives of history which makes for more questions. But, Serbia is as much of a mythical place as is any other distinguished border. If one keeps going back in time all these borders would become obsolete. In what moment did time stop and any of these "real" borders make sense. They have been changing all the time. Why does time stop in Serbia?

Serbia would have had a decent argument in retaining the already autonomous province IF it didn't act like it did in the past.

Furthermore, resolution 1244 says the future of Kosova would be determined by taking full account of the Rambouillet Accords which state that any future settlement will be determined 'on the basis of the will of the people, OPINIONS OF RELEVANT AUTHORITIES, each party's efforts regarding the implementation of the Accords, and the Helsinki Final Act.'

I think you missed something important... Two relevant authorities here are Russia and China, both holding UNSC VETOs and strongly against independence. Period.

Genc,

My favorite country for summer vacation is Greece….
(Stevan, 14 January 2008 17:44)

Not Serbia? Really not???
(genc, 14 January 2008 18:58)

No, usually not, because Serbia is my home, it’s nice to change surroundings for vacation. Although, in Greece, I feel at home as well.

As usual the Albanian camp is discounting Serbia's potential.
Pathetic attempts to ridicule Serbia as a country with limited business partners.
You have forgotten that China and India are very powerful countries economically and they will gladly do busines with Serbia. That's only two extra countries you neglected to add to the list. Who is going to do business with a charity case like Kosovo is the more important question here.

Laugh all you like Albanian camp but remember. He who laughs last......

"….If Kosovo/a is Serbian land through history then should England demand territory in the middle east and north america? How about Turkey? I'm sure they would love some land….."

Erhan, your arguments are standing on the head. Serbs are not the ones trying to create some mythical land based on (very) questionable interpretation of ancient history, (Dardania). Kosovo Albanians are. Serb only expect that their national suverenity and borders are respected, that's all.

If you are trying to imagine situation in other countries that would be equivalent to position where Serbia is at the moment, that would be more like if for example Pakistani immigrants would concentrate in the Cornwall, expel local Brits and then demand independence because they are majority and they wont their own state. Do you think that Great Britain would accept that?

Lili, politics is the art of possible, not "just justice".

If "just justice" was used as a yardstick, chances are there would be no mentioning of any kind of independence, supervised, unsupervised or imagined.

You speak of horrendous crimes that happened in Kosovo. Can you clarify somethinge? How do you see horrendous crimes against Kosovo Albanians commited by KLA narcoterrorist goons? More than 1000 Kosovo Albanians are murdered by KLA terrorists after June 10 1999 and similar number of Kosovo Albanians was murdered before March 24 1999 by the very same KLA terrorists.

I do not mention muredered Serbs and Roma on purpose.

Do you believe that giving independence to narcoterrorist goons who murder their own in order to provoke international
intervention has to do anything with "just justice", or it has to do something with political interests of outside powers who used Kosovo Albanians as their device?

Chances are, that you know somebody murdered by KLA. Can you share your thoughts about it, using your real name.