Priština to ask to sign SAA

"Hajredin Kuqi said that Kosovo would be in the final phase of European Union membership in three years time.
"

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

Hahahahahahahaha this guy should have become an comedian instead off an politician.

The sign an SAA with the EU first ALL members have to recognize Kosovo as all members have to AGREE with the SAA signing.

Secondly, Turkey is allready 20 years an candidate member but it still has to comply with all the standards.

Man where do you guys find these politicians, on mars?

Cuz this guy is sure no way near on Earth, get real.

I am enjoying this climate in B92, we aren't talking about Kosovo independence anymore! We are talking joining EU yes or no?! not even that - only when??

Regards,
Vega
from Kosovo

Hej Serbia give me a break, let me join EU first, and as I am more europian minded I will certanly not block you enterin EU for the sake of 'patriotism.

Love,
Kosovo

P.S
Thank you for listing all the possible and impossible obstacles for Kosovo joining EU, we will consider them all.

i said..NO NO NO !!
Are we crazy ? Kosovo in EU ?
We don't want any new member state and we hope to dismiss some of the existing ones ...

Don't tell me this guy used to be head of the tourist board who said there were Polar bears in the Sar Planina???

What next they signed it already? If ethnic-Albanians really belive a word of this then well I guess that explains why they have not realised they not been granted anyting close to independece!

Wow, SAA is 3 years? Sounds good to me!

In that case all of the Albanains will leave Kosovo for a brighter future elsewhere leaving the Serbians as the remaining majority. That will certainly make life easy for us.

At least other countries will have to deal with their explosive population growth. Perhaps Cornwall in the UK will be the next Albanian state?

Don't laugh at it.
EU has proven it can twist all legal aspects and apply double,tripple, etc.. standards where it suits their needs.

Serbia in numerous aspects regarding "standards" is ahead of Greece (stray animals management, public health, highway/transportation network, new IDs, faster pace of adopting new technologies and adapting to new needs, BY FAR more efficient police, highway patrol, etc...),
but that doesn't say a lot i guess, since EU is not about substance but about politics.

It's funny how people underestimate the Albanian. It has been been underestimated int he last 20 years.
Kosova has estimated wealth of 2.9 trillion dollars worth of minerals, EXCLUDING THE OIL RESERVES in the North Albania-Southern of Dukagjin Valley Belt which 99% located in the south, located in the areas populated 100%.

Just like we won the war for freedom, we will fight hard to win with the Economy.
I dunno what's going in Serbia and its wasteful discussions at the UN about the already resolved status, but we citizens Kosova have started to work on developing our economy, luring already 2000 investors within this month.

A small country, population of 2.5 million, worth trillion of dollars of minerals.
I can't wait. I just can't wait for that day to come.
Kosova should start working on immigration laws because we will have lots of Serbs, Macedonians, Albanians from Albania, Croats, Central Asia, and who knows coming to work in our country.
Just give it some time.

I hope B92 publishes this one.

What??? Three years time???

It took other, far more developed states in Eastern Europe almost 15 years to eventually join, and this "politician" thinks Kosovo will be in the final stage of membership within three years when the economy is no better than that of Zambia? First the SAA can only be signed if all states first of all, recognize Kosovo's independence and secondly, acknowledge Kosovo's membership bid! Secondly, this country first needs to reform everything to comply with the Copenhagen Criteria, which I am sorry to say, is absolutely impossible for Kosovo to do in three years!

I cannot believe that someone in a position of power can say things like this, it's ridiculous!

Priština to ask to sign SAA !!?!?!

Why satisfy with the SAA? Why not ask for a permanent seat in the UN security counsel direct!

This was probably the biggest joke of the year so far!

Guys, afterall Kosovars are amongst the most optimistic people according to some surveys. I'm not gonna bother copying and pasting a link since I will only get abuse and criticism. Just Google it.

I agree 3 years is far too optimistic. I think the year 2013 will be a good guess for the whole region.

In the balkans it can only get better anyway.

Vega,

Enjoy this little diversion while it lasts because, believe me, it won't last long.

Hajredin Kuqi said that Kosovo would be in the final phase of European Union membership in three years time.
I think the time frame is over-optimistic, five years more likely to join the EU.We
need firstly to establish the foundations of Kosova and
all insitutions before we're ready for membership.

Kosovo will not be a member in three years time. I doubt that and SAA will even be signed by then.
SAA negotiations cannot be started without unanimity of members, and so will not happen until all recognise independence (which may take a few years minimum). Following that the SAA will take 3-4 years (and maybe longer given Kosovo's very poor economy), but I am using Albania as a basis. Even then the GDP of Kosovo, and its institutions will not be close to European norms. There's no way the member states wil allow Kosovo to join until its economy is significantly better, with more employment, and less crime.

Luigi:

I see you don't want to expand the EU, and want to throw some countries out. My first nomination for an EU eviction would be Italy. Probably the worst economic performance and government in the EU. At least the new countries have strong GDP growth. Slovenia, Czech Rep and Estonia will have overtaken Italy soon. Italy has only been spared a complete economic crisis because of Euro membership.

Isn't it a little early for an April Fool's joke?

Dear all,

Kosovo is de facto in the EU. I would say we are 80% part of the EU. Let explain you why:

1. Brussels decide for the entire EU, so does for Kosovo from now on.

2. Brussels has contributed towards infrastructure of the all EU members by spending billions of Euros. So is doing in Kosovo too. (By the way Oli Rehn said that at least 1 Billion euro is going to Kosovo for development and eventual preparation for the EU).

3. We have Euro as currency, thus monetary policy is conducted in Brussels.

4. We have the most advanced and democratic human right (including minorities)...probably more advanced the EU members themselves.

5. No country but the big four (UK, FRance, Germany and Italy) can stop the Kosovo joining the EU. But for your info the big 4 have accepted Kosovo independence.


I think you show your naivety if you think the contrary. Cyprus, Slovakia, Rumania carry a marginalised weight at the EU inspite of the fact that they are EU members. When push comes to shove they all give in for whatever big power ask. Remember few weeks ago… EULEX mission was NOT vetoed by any of potential EU members despite intial threat at the beginning. So even if Kosovo is ready to join the EU no country (apart from UK, France, Germany and Italy) can oppose BUT will have to open the way...’probably’ silently agreeing...

I hope the above will explain how EU institutions/bureaucracy... works and why Kosovo has no barriers to entry..


cheers

P.S. In Kosovo we have no time fo Comedy but for serious and determined action.

Hey luigi,
Does Northern italy still produce that Alfa Romeos that completely break down after 12 months of ownership?

Ah, did i forget to mention Freedom for my greek brothers of Magna Grecia?

A number of improvements will have to be made before fulfilling the requirements of signing the SAA.
* Basic human rights for the citizens.
* Democratic government that doesnt consist of mafia-bosses.
* Basic economic criteria.
* Control of the territory.
* An internationally recognized state.
Just to name a few.

On 12 March 2008 15:08, Bruce wrote:

> My first nomination for an EU eviction would be Italy. Probably the worst economic performance and government in the EU.

I have to agree with you there Bruce. The Italian government, both central and regional, is a joke. 60 different governments since WW2 I think. Berlusconi - need I say more? Corruption everywhere.

Now for something slightly on topic: How long before Northern Italy separates from their poor cousins in the south and on Sicily?

My God, this is becoming amusing as the days go by. Very amusing, indeed. I know Albanians hope that USA will persuade the EU, but still, the one must really stupid to believe in this. Even if the USA tries to use some magic tricks to persuade a bit fragile EU members (Romania, Cyprus, Slovakia..) still don’t know how will make Spain to change its mind.

My Goodness, what comedians are representing Kosovo. As Princip UK said, perhaps the same man claimed Polar bears in Shar Planina and some even maybe believed it. Seems, Albanians believe in Polar bears residing in Sar Planiana, why not then EU membership.

I say, Kosovo will join the EU when Polar bears inhabit Sar Planina.

I’ve been reading news and comments posted on b92 website everyday, and I thank b92 for this possibility to comment on news and developments, because this way, in my opinion, chances to get to know each others opinions and views on a particular issue help directly improve the dialogue in general. But, important things that must be respected by everybody when entering into dialogue are: openness (to hear each other’s views), no prejudgements (‘never judge someone from outside appearance’) and one must have some background on that particular issue that wants to comment. Unfortunately, very often I have seen this kind of attitude. Most of the times instead of commenting the news or the problem being addressed, comments go to somebody’s personal life, which in many cases are offending.
Before the declaration of independence (which is by far not unilateral, but rather coordinated) there were many comments that this will never happen. It did happen! This is something no one can deny! Now you are saying it will never come to that day when Kosova will knock on the EU doors, believe that day will come. I don’t think it is that important if this happens in 3 or 5 years, the important thing is that Kosova Government and people are dedicated to work in that direction, which means that we want to have a developed Kosova in every aspect for everyone living in its territory.

Bruce and Jan Andersen

OMG!!! You guys are saying Kosovo should enter the EU but Italy should be kicked out???

You want to replace a stalwart and cornerstone of European and international history (Ancient Rome), culture (Vatican City, renaissance etc.), achievements (football, sports cars etc.), science (Galileo, Da Vinci etc.), art (Donatello, Michaelangelo etc.), music (opera, classical) etc. for someone like, no offense, Kosovo???

Prishtinas:

You are wrong on three points

3. You may have the Euro as a currency, but this is adopted unilaterally without intrinsic EU support, and you are thus unable to mint you own coinage (like Andorra and Montnegro but unlike the Vatican, San Marino and Monaco). This does not make them EU, so does not make you EU.

4. You do NOT have the most advanced democratic and human rights in Europe. To think so is laughable. I accept your wish for independence, but please do not delude yourselve sthat your country is some paradise. Please look at the study done by Freedom House which rates Kosovo as the worst place for human and democratic rights in Europe (excluding ex-USSR) and rate Kosovo as far worse than Serbia.

5. Under current EU rules all natons must ratify the treaty of accession for new states, and thus any state (via non ratification) can block EU membership. Again the situation may change, and the whole of the EU may begin to support Kosovo independence, but do not peddle lies as facts.

This is guy is laughing stock.

EU doesnt recognise you as anything other then part of Serbia. Some idiotic countries chose to ignore the international law... but pleanty didnt.

Nothing wrong with optimism. It is a characteristic of Kosovars and it is something no one can deny them, especially since they now have a state of their own. THe future of Kosovo is solely on their hands.

As for the 'external chatter' - we've learned to ignore the unnecessary noise and will continue to do so. Our focus is peace and prosperity, within the norms of the civilized world - which in majority, has already recognized out statehood.

If not 3 years, then 5 years - as long as we work on it. At least we know that our government is serious about EU, unlike our neighbors.

"EU is not about substance but about politics."

Well said, Pyrros. I begin to believe, this is possible. Afghanistan could join EU within a year as a "unique case" if there is a political reason, as absurd as it may sound.

Prishtinas

Why do you think everyone is on about even little Cyprus and their opinion of Kosovo's independence? Because even little Cyprus is able to veto Kosovo's entry into the EU. Why do you think Turkey is not?

The "big four" are obviously the largest and most powerful in the EU, but not in any way more power than little Cyprus and Malta when it comes to the voting process in terms of EU member state enlargement.

Another issue to take into consideration is that the EU as an organization needs to recognize the sovereignty of Kosovo before it can consider them in the expansion process, which is also not a reality now. The reality is that the EU recognizes Kosovo as an integral part of Serbia under UNSCR1244, though individual states are allowed to recognize Kosovo if they so wish, but this does not constitute unity.

Unfortunately I have noticed that the Kosovo Albanians live in a dream world where they think none of this matter, but the sooner they realize this, the less disappointed they will be when they realize that they can't even begin by signing the SAA, let alone candidate status and beyond that.

As Bruce says, maybe it will change, but maybe it won't. It is you who needs to refrain from comedy, because all the determined action in the world will not get you into the EU, thanks to even little Cyprus and Slovakia.

Oh and one more thing, I doubt those incredible minority rights that you boast of are felt by Kosovo's Serbs and Roma. Laws are one thing, enforcement is another, read the Copenhagen Criteria for EU membership on minority rights, and you will see how far Kosovo is from Europe.

"Don't tell me this guy used to be head of the tourist board who said there were Polar bears in the Sar Planina???"

He's the guy who went up the mountain and painted the bears with white Dulux matt emulsion. Woud have been a great marketing ploy had it come off.

However problem was, when it rained the paint fell off.

Bruce, you are missing something crucial. Kosovo first needs to be a country before it can enter the EU. It would help even if the EU recognised it as such!

However, you can be sure that will not happen.

Peace

Nobody said Kosovo would not be independent, because independence is not given, it is claimed, anyone can claim it, only recognition is given, no one said that nobody would recognize it.

Regarding EU and UN membership, it is a different story, as membership is given, not claimed, and for it to be given, there needs to be unanimous approval from the UNSC and the EU, where in both there is none.

That was the price Kosovo had to pay for its independence, this is why two things would have to happen to allow Kosovo to join either of these two:

1) Negotiations start again and a mutually acceptable agreement is reached, allowing the states against Kosovo independence to accept it and Kosovo will have a future in the EU and UN (which is improbable now, since the West just prematurely shot off a decision, not taking into account the consequences, unless they have some other plan to obstruct regulations)

2) A pro-Western Serbian government comes into power that is willing to let Kosovo go and then recognize Kosovo (with Serbian inat, do you ever consider this a possibility? Not likely).

I am pretty certain that Kosovo will not join the EU or the UN, though I am not saying it is impossible, the West and Russia have their ways in twisting laws for their own benefit.

If only Spain dont recognise Kosovo independence and they say that's something they will never do then Kosovo can't even initiate The SAA.

Prishtinas:

1. Unilateral adoption of the Euro means nothing. Senegal could adopt the Euro it would not move it closer to the EU. It does not indicate anything about your economy (other than it is small and cannot produce its own currency which people will have confidence in).

2. Freedom House is supported by the US government so I would have thought you would take notice of it. Human rights have nothing to do with the way laws are adopted, but how they are enacted. Please just accept your country has problems. I generally accept that Kosovo has a right to be independent, but when I read this drivel coming from posters about how perfect Kosovo is, it makes one wonder.

3. It is rare for countries to publicly use their veto, as the EU prefers consensus. But it is used behind the scenes for leverage. If they know there will be a veto then the EU generally doesn't bother moving forward with something.

Denamrk and Ireland have both thrown out treatis and made the EU go back to the drawing board (and Ireland may yet again with the Lisbon Treaty). Poland vetoed a pact with Russia recently. The UK and Austria came to a deal not to veto Croatia or Turkey's accession negotiations (both wanted one and not the other). Cyprus is preventing the openning of new chapters in Turkeys accession. Enough examples.

Peace

"In cases when independence is not given (like it was the case with Kosova) then it is claimed. If there was an agreement between Serbia and Kosova on independence then we could say that independence was given, but since there was no chance reaching an agreement on this issue Kosova had to declare (claim) independence, what was very closely coordinated with US and EU. "

Hehe, you are right, but what you say does not differ from what I said. Kosovo declared independence (claimed), West recognized (gave). Had an agreement been reached, it would not differ either, Kosovo would declare independence (claim), Serbia would have recognized (given).

"As you say “West and Russia have their ways in twisting laws for their own benefit”, so even if Kosova will not be ready in 3 years time to join EU, I’m sure EU will be ready for Kosova."

The EU should not make an exception for Kosovo, because many former communist states (including my country) had to go through a long and difficult process to finally be accepted in into the EU, why should Kosovo be an exception to what everybody else had to go through? Kosovo needs to prove that it can function as an EU state, not be taken as a charity case out of pity or anything else.

Prishtinas

"Under the pressure of the Biggest EU powers all remaining EU countries give in. Please help me by giving me one example when something backed by the Big EU powers was vetoed by other EU small less-influencing nations. I would like to know."

Turkey.

"We, under the international community, have achieved the most advanced/ultimate laws with respect to human rights."

You have achieved nothing. Saying that you will have such a constitution and actually successfully executing it are two entirely different things.

"It is meaningless how EURO is adopted. "

No it isn't, why do you think half of the EU hasn't adopted the Euro as of yet? You have any idea about how macroeconomics actually work?

"Let me tell you that I am right on those points as well. "

Not even in the slightest.

I don't know if there are polar bears or pinguins inhabiting sar mountains(who is interested can ask Gorani's who live up there). All I know that we(Kosovars) are moing forward while serbia is moving backwards.

one third of the actual population in kosovo is already european,thanks to serbian repressionduring these last decades.
French albanian like me,spanish albanian,belgian albanian,danish albanian,english albanian etcetc....some are even representative of these countries in your countrÿ and you do not know them as albanian ,that is the most funnÿ!
so,don't worry for our europeen future.we are already in europe

Bruce and Peter

3. Unilateral adoption of the Euro means nothing. Senegal could adopt the Euro it would not move it closer to the EU.

Peter Sudyka,

I have a substantial Macroeconomic background to understand EU instistutions, EU laws, EU economics...but I ALSO have substantial psychological background to understand your naivety in the EU bureacracy. However feel FREE to keep your line of thinking.

Well, nobody said that adoption of Euro is an indicator of economic strength. However, it is a step that we may have to undertake sooner or later and we are not interested whether Senegal or Jamaice adopts Euro. WE KNOW THAT EURO CURRENCY IS A TRAIT OF EU CLUB.

4.I do accept that there are problems in Kosovo. There is no doubt about it. But all the laws(acc. to Ahtisari plan) have been or are being enacted.

5. EU small countries are more likely to veto affairs that have only European repercussions. Kosovo vis-a-vis EU is a major International topic and cannot be compared to EU couuntries issues to Lisbon, Mastrich Treaty etc...

Prishtinas

"I have a substantial Macroeconomic background to understand EU instistutions, EU laws, EU economics...but I ALSO have substantial psychological background to understand your naivety in the EU bureacracy. However feel FREE to keep your line of thinking. "

You must be very clever with all that substantial knowledge on everything.

So let me get something straight, because you have the Euro, does that mean the prices for everything from petrol and consumer goods to electronics and properties are the same as in other countries where they have the Euro as per formal agreement? Does that mean that wages in Kosovo in Euro are the same as they are in other countries that have the Euro as per formal agreement? If so, then why is the economic situation in Kosovo more similar to that of Congo rather than it is to, let's say, Slovenia? It is because your "Euro" was adopted without a formal agreement, therefore you are not considered a part of the Eurozone, that is what Bruce meant, this means that anyone can adopt the Euro unilaterally, it does not make them a Eurozone state.

If Kosovo was to gain formal Eurozone status, it would mean that they would have had to have gone through the entire economic restructuring process to reach certain economic standards for the economy to be able to handle the Euro on a formal basis, like in the all the Eurozone states.

"5. EU small countries are more likely to veto affairs that have only European repercussions. Kosovo vis-a-vis EU is a major International topic and cannot be compared to EU couuntries issues to Lisbon, Mastrich Treaty etc..."

This is precisely why Spain, Romania, Slovakia and Cyprus refuse to recognize Kosovo, because they believe that recognizing Kosovo will have serious repurcussions on an international scale, not only on a domestic one. Not everyone believes this "sui generis" argument that the US and some EU states feed them regarding recognition, otherwise they would have all recognized Kosovo had they thought it would not start a precedent on an international scale.

Bruce,

Let me tell you that I am right on those points as well.

Point 3. It is meaningless how EURO is adopted. More important is that it a step nearer towards the EU club. By the way, nobody is saying that we are fully-fledged EU member.

Point 4: We, under the international community, have achieved the most advanced/ultimate laws with respect to human rights. Freedom House evaluation is not so important to us. More important is that World community has convinced us that the laws adopted by the assembly of (now) Kosova make us the most prepared for the EU than the other countries of region. Please read more about laws adopted by the Kosova assembly.

Point 5: I partially agree with you. But in reality the theory and practice do not always go hand-in-hand. Under the pressure of the Biggest EU powers all remaining EU countries give in. Please help me by giving me one example when something backed by the Big EU powers was vetoed by other EU small less-influencing nations. I would like to know. I do not think that Kosova will be the first example of that.

I hope the above clarifies your points.

Cheers

Prishtinas

How could u then explain these to 2 situations?
Croatia that is backed up by Germany, has a economy 100 years ahead of Kosovo still hasnt joined the EU.
Montnegro has also signed the SSA, has no disputes whatever, has more and more tourists each year, a small population of 650.000 and also hast joined the EU.

If u want to belive that no standards have to be reached to join the EU and the EU is actually some kind Red cross there u obviosly do not want to here things that do not please u.
U say u have a large knowledge of macroecomics, well could u could include these factors - Kosovo has one of the lowest GDP in Europe , the highest birth rate in Europe, the population density is close to 200 per square kilometer, one of the highest in Europe, unemploymet is enourmous.

SAA does not mean automaticaly EU membership. The same is valid for Serbia. As you are spending 24/7 online, improve your political abilities and understand that Kosova and Serbia will enter EU at the same time. As separately independet countries. This will happen when the Russian bears will leave Belgrade.

Imagine the next trend among the albanian kosovars in B92, to be euro-skeptik, and to state "intelligent" comments *against* "potential" EU membership!!!

i send a comment and i repeat it for all of you:one third of the kosovo population is already in europe(thanks to serbian repression)! Moreover a great part of this diaspora ,they are citizen of european nations and they even serve their new countrie in Serbia proper !Switerland has 40.000 binationals,germany idem,bruxelles even an ambassador of albanian origin etc.etc...Not to talk for the usa (g.tenet was of albanian origin)
So it pleases you or not,it pleases europe or not,we are already europeen citizens of kosova!

Peter Sudyka,

I think you should be clever enough to keep private on pointing who is clever/cleverer.

Anyway,I do partially agree with your 'advanced' macroeconomic lecture but you fail to undestand simple logic. THE EURO CURRENCY IS A TRAIT/CHARACTERISTIC OF EU CLUB and we are working towards prices, strenghtening the economy etc. READ more carefully what I have said earlier.

You also said "This is precisely why Spain, Romania, Slovakia and Cyprus refuse to recognize Kosovo, because they believe that recognizing Kosovo will have serious repurcussions on an international scale, not only on a domestic one."

I fully disagree with you in this point. Can you please find a single example where an issue with international repercussions, endorsed by EU big 4, was vetoed by other EU countries....None!

I hope this time you understand better what I meant.

Prishtinas

"THE EURO CURRENCY IS A TRAIT/CHARACTERISTIC OF EU CLUB and we are working towards prices, strenghtening the economy etc. READ more carefully what I have said earlier. "

Alright, fair enough, the Euro is a characteristic of EU states, but what I am arguing is that I feel to see how this contributes to Kosovo supposedly being 80% part of the EU, as you put it earlier.

"Can you please find a single example where an issue with international repercussions, endorsed by EU big 4, was vetoed by other EU countries....None!"

Turkey.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/6160637.stm

Hi Peter,
I don’t really want to go into that kind of discussion and say you said or I said, but in this case I have to correct you. In cases when independence is not given (like it was the case with Kosova) then it is claimed. If there was an agreement between Serbia and Kosova on independence then we could say that independence was given, but since there was no chance reaching an agreement on this issue Kosova had to declare (claim) independence, what was very closely coordinated with US and EU.
Another thing in this regard, I’m not saying that now anyone is saying that Kosova will not be independent, instead such comments were made here before independence was declared. That is why I don’t find as a wise thing to say Kosovo will never join EU. As you say “West and Russia have their ways in twisting laws for their own benefit”, so even if Kosova will not be ready in 3 years time to join EU, I’m sure EU will be ready for Kosova.

First you guys were arguing about Kosovo's declaration of Independece and that happened, now we are arguing about signing SAA and joining EU.
I wonder what we will argue with you guys after Kosovo will join EU?
This is a great way (arguing about next steps that will happen in Kosovo) for Serbs to start accepting Kosovo's reality.
So far the result is 1:0 for Kosovo vs Serbia, then it comes UN and EU. My guess is 3:0, but we'll see.

Bruce
Well i still prefer to live in Italy than in all the other countries that you mention..
But i can agree that we are lagging all the other countries for the Gdp growth
so if you want we can leave the club...
Pyrros
Alfa Romeo have done great cars unfortunately the Napoli facility made cars with some "little" problems ok ok ..
As for THE Magna-Grecia they too like the idea of enough is enough i can tell you...

Peter Sudyka:

I did not say I wanted Kosovo to be a member anytime soon. I don't think it is possible, as I said, because they have so far to come both institutionally and economically. That is not to say they should never be a member. I support enlargment of the EU wholeheartedly, once countries meet the economic and institutional criteria to be a productive member (Kosovo should probably be hoping to join alonside Georgia and Ukraine).

And my comment about Italy was a facetious remark aimed at Luigi's reoccurring comments that he wants the new-EU countries thrown out.

ZK:

I noted that in my first comment and said it would take years (in international diplomacy 'never' is a very strong word - Ian Paisley used to use it a lot, and now he is N Ireland first minister). But maybe you will be right - time will tell.

Hajredin Kuqi said that Kosovo would be in the final phase of European Union membership in three years time.
I think the time frame is over-optimistic, five years more likely to join the EU.We
need firstly to establish the foundations of Kosova and
all insitutions before we're ready for membership.

"Hajredin Kuqi said that Kosovo would be in the final phase of European Union membership in three years time.
"

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

Hahahahahahahaha this guy should have become an comedian instead off an politician.

The sign an SAA with the EU first ALL members have to recognize Kosovo as all members have to AGREE with the SAA signing.

Secondly, Turkey is allready 20 years an candidate member but it still has to comply with all the standards.

Man where do you guys find these politicians, on mars?

Cuz this guy is sure no way near on Earth, get real.

Hej Serbia give me a break, let me join EU first, and as I am more europian minded I will certanly not block you enterin EU for the sake of 'patriotism.

Love,
Kosovo

P.S
Thank you for listing all the possible and impossible obstacles for Kosovo joining EU, we will consider them all.

I am enjoying this climate in B92, we aren't talking about Kosovo independence anymore! We are talking joining EU yes or no?! not even that - only when??

Regards,
Vega
from Kosovo

i said..NO NO NO !!
Are we crazy ? Kosovo in EU ?
We don't want any new member state and we hope to dismiss some of the existing ones ...

What??? Three years time???

It took other, far more developed states in Eastern Europe almost 15 years to eventually join, and this "politician" thinks Kosovo will be in the final stage of membership within three years when the economy is no better than that of Zambia? First the SAA can only be signed if all states first of all, recognize Kosovo's independence and secondly, acknowledge Kosovo's membership bid! Secondly, this country first needs to reform everything to comply with the Copenhagen Criteria, which I am sorry to say, is absolutely impossible for Kosovo to do in three years!

I cannot believe that someone in a position of power can say things like this, it's ridiculous!

It's funny how people underestimate the Albanian. It has been been underestimated int he last 20 years.
Kosova has estimated wealth of 2.9 trillion dollars worth of minerals, EXCLUDING THE OIL RESERVES in the North Albania-Southern of Dukagjin Valley Belt which 99% located in the south, located in the areas populated 100%.

Just like we won the war for freedom, we will fight hard to win with the Economy.
I dunno what's going in Serbia and its wasteful discussions at the UN about the already resolved status, but we citizens Kosova have started to work on developing our economy, luring already 2000 investors within this month.

A small country, population of 2.5 million, worth trillion of dollars of minerals.
I can't wait. I just can't wait for that day to come.
Kosova should start working on immigration laws because we will have lots of Serbs, Macedonians, Albanians from Albania, Croats, Central Asia, and who knows coming to work in our country.
Just give it some time.

I hope B92 publishes this one.

Don't tell me this guy used to be head of the tourist board who said there were Polar bears in the Sar Planina???

What next they signed it already? If ethnic-Albanians really belive a word of this then well I guess that explains why they have not realised they not been granted anyting close to independece!

Guys, afterall Kosovars are amongst the most optimistic people according to some surveys. I'm not gonna bother copying and pasting a link since I will only get abuse and criticism. Just Google it.

I agree 3 years is far too optimistic. I think the year 2013 will be a good guess for the whole region.

In the balkans it can only get better anyway.

Vega,

Enjoy this little diversion while it lasts because, believe me, it won't last long.

My God, this is becoming amusing as the days go by. Very amusing, indeed. I know Albanians hope that USA will persuade the EU, but still, the one must really stupid to believe in this. Even if the USA tries to use some magic tricks to persuade a bit fragile EU members (Romania, Cyprus, Slovakia..) still don’t know how will make Spain to change its mind.

My Goodness, what comedians are representing Kosovo. As Princip UK said, perhaps the same man claimed Polar bears in Shar Planina and some even maybe believed it. Seems, Albanians believe in Polar bears residing in Sar Planiana, why not then EU membership.

I say, Kosovo will join the EU when Polar bears inhabit Sar Planina.

Bruce,

Let me tell you that I am right on those points as well.

Point 3. It is meaningless how EURO is adopted. More important is that it a step nearer towards the EU club. By the way, nobody is saying that we are fully-fledged EU member.

Point 4: We, under the international community, have achieved the most advanced/ultimate laws with respect to human rights. Freedom House evaluation is not so important to us. More important is that World community has convinced us that the laws adopted by the assembly of (now) Kosova make us the most prepared for the EU than the other countries of region. Please read more about laws adopted by the Kosova assembly.

Point 5: I partially agree with you. But in reality the theory and practice do not always go hand-in-hand. Under the pressure of the Biggest EU powers all remaining EU countries give in. Please help me by giving me one example when something backed by the Big EU powers was vetoed by other EU small less-influencing nations. I would like to know. I do not think that Kosova will be the first example of that.

I hope the above clarifies your points.

Cheers

SAA does not mean automaticaly EU membership. The same is valid for Serbia. As you are spending 24/7 online, improve your political abilities and understand that Kosova and Serbia will enter EU at the same time. As separately independet countries. This will happen when the Russian bears will leave Belgrade.

Priština to ask to sign SAA !!?!?!

Why satisfy with the SAA? Why not ask for a permanent seat in the UN security counsel direct!

This was probably the biggest joke of the year so far!

Dear all,

Kosovo is de facto in the EU. I would say we are 80% part of the EU. Let explain you why:

1. Brussels decide for the entire EU, so does for Kosovo from now on.

2. Brussels has contributed towards infrastructure of the all EU members by spending billions of Euros. So is doing in Kosovo too. (By the way Oli Rehn said that at least 1 Billion euro is going to Kosovo for development and eventual preparation for the EU).

3. We have Euro as currency, thus monetary policy is conducted in Brussels.

4. We have the most advanced and democratic human right (including minorities)...probably more advanced the EU members themselves.

5. No country but the big four (UK, FRance, Germany and Italy) can stop the Kosovo joining the EU. But for your info the big 4 have accepted Kosovo independence.


I think you show your naivety if you think the contrary. Cyprus, Slovakia, Rumania carry a marginalised weight at the EU inspite of the fact that they are EU members. When push comes to shove they all give in for whatever big power ask. Remember few weeks ago… EULEX mission was NOT vetoed by any of potential EU members despite intial threat at the beginning. So even if Kosovo is ready to join the EU no country (apart from UK, France, Germany and Italy) can oppose BUT will have to open the way...’probably’ silently agreeing...

I hope the above will explain how EU institutions/bureaucracy... works and why Kosovo has no barriers to entry..


cheers

P.S. In Kosovo we have no time fo Comedy but for serious and determined action.

I’ve been reading news and comments posted on b92 website everyday, and I thank b92 for this possibility to comment on news and developments, because this way, in my opinion, chances to get to know each others opinions and views on a particular issue help directly improve the dialogue in general. But, important things that must be respected by everybody when entering into dialogue are: openness (to hear each other’s views), no prejudgements (‘never judge someone from outside appearance’) and one must have some background on that particular issue that wants to comment. Unfortunately, very often I have seen this kind of attitude. Most of the times instead of commenting the news or the problem being addressed, comments go to somebody’s personal life, which in many cases are offending.
Before the declaration of independence (which is by far not unilateral, but rather coordinated) there were many comments that this will never happen. It did happen! This is something no one can deny! Now you are saying it will never come to that day when Kosova will knock on the EU doors, believe that day will come. I don’t think it is that important if this happens in 3 or 5 years, the important thing is that Kosova Government and people are dedicated to work in that direction, which means that we want to have a developed Kosova in every aspect for everyone living in its territory.

Prishtinas:

1. Unilateral adoption of the Euro means nothing. Senegal could adopt the Euro it would not move it closer to the EU. It does not indicate anything about your economy (other than it is small and cannot produce its own currency which people will have confidence in).

2. Freedom House is supported by the US government so I would have thought you would take notice of it. Human rights have nothing to do with the way laws are adopted, but how they are enacted. Please just accept your country has problems. I generally accept that Kosovo has a right to be independent, but when I read this drivel coming from posters about how perfect Kosovo is, it makes one wonder.

3. It is rare for countries to publicly use their veto, as the EU prefers consensus. But it is used behind the scenes for leverage. If they know there will be a veto then the EU generally doesn't bother moving forward with something.

Denamrk and Ireland have both thrown out treatis and made the EU go back to the drawing board (and Ireland may yet again with the Lisbon Treaty). Poland vetoed a pact with Russia recently. The UK and Austria came to a deal not to veto Croatia or Turkey's accession negotiations (both wanted one and not the other). Cyprus is preventing the openning of new chapters in Turkeys accession. Enough examples.

First you guys were arguing about Kosovo's declaration of Independece and that happened, now we are arguing about signing SAA and joining EU.
I wonder what we will argue with you guys after Kosovo will join EU?
This is a great way (arguing about next steps that will happen in Kosovo) for Serbs to start accepting Kosovo's reality.
So far the result is 1:0 for Kosovo vs Serbia, then it comes UN and EU. My guess is 3:0, but we'll see.

Bruce and Peter

3. Unilateral adoption of the Euro means nothing. Senegal could adopt the Euro it would not move it closer to the EU.

Peter Sudyka,

I have a substantial Macroeconomic background to understand EU instistutions, EU laws, EU economics...but I ALSO have substantial psychological background to understand your naivety in the EU bureacracy. However feel FREE to keep your line of thinking.

Well, nobody said that adoption of Euro is an indicator of economic strength. However, it is a step that we may have to undertake sooner or later and we are not interested whether Senegal or Jamaice adopts Euro. WE KNOW THAT EURO CURRENCY IS A TRAIT OF EU CLUB.

4.I do accept that there are problems in Kosovo. There is no doubt about it. But all the laws(acc. to Ahtisari plan) have been or are being enacted.

5. EU small countries are more likely to veto affairs that have only European repercussions. Kosovo vis-a-vis EU is a major International topic and cannot be compared to EU couuntries issues to Lisbon, Mastrich Treaty etc...

A number of improvements will have to be made before fulfilling the requirements of signing the SAA.
* Basic human rights for the citizens.
* Democratic government that doesnt consist of mafia-bosses.
* Basic economic criteria.
* Control of the territory.
* An internationally recognized state.
Just to name a few.

Hey luigi,
Does Northern italy still produce that Alfa Romeos that completely break down after 12 months of ownership?

Ah, did i forget to mention Freedom for my greek brothers of Magna Grecia?

EU doesnt recognise you as anything other then part of Serbia. Some idiotic countries chose to ignore the international law... but pleanty didnt.

one third of the actual population in kosovo is already european,thanks to serbian repressionduring these last decades.
French albanian like me,spanish albanian,belgian albanian,danish albanian,english albanian etcetc....some are even representative of these countries in your countrÿ and you do not know them as albanian ,that is the most funnÿ!
so,don't worry for our europeen future.we are already in europe

i send a comment and i repeat it for all of you:one third of the kosovo population is already in europe(thanks to serbian repression)! Moreover a great part of this diaspora ,they are citizen of european nations and they even serve their new countrie in Serbia proper !Switerland has 40.000 binationals,germany idem,bruxelles even an ambassador of albanian origin etc.etc...Not to talk for the usa (g.tenet was of albanian origin)
So it pleases you or not,it pleases europe or not,we are already europeen citizens of kosova!

Hi Peter,
I don’t really want to go into that kind of discussion and say you said or I said, but in this case I have to correct you. In cases when independence is not given (like it was the case with Kosova) then it is claimed. If there was an agreement between Serbia and Kosova on independence then we could say that independence was given, but since there was no chance reaching an agreement on this issue Kosova had to declare (claim) independence, what was very closely coordinated with US and EU.
Another thing in this regard, I’m not saying that now anyone is saying that Kosova will not be independent, instead such comments were made here before independence was declared. That is why I don’t find as a wise thing to say Kosovo will never join EU. As you say “West and Russia have their ways in twisting laws for their own benefit”, so even if Kosova will not be ready in 3 years time to join EU, I’m sure EU will be ready for Kosova.

Peter Sudyka,

I think you should be clever enough to keep private on pointing who is clever/cleverer.

Anyway,I do partially agree with your 'advanced' macroeconomic lecture but you fail to undestand simple logic. THE EURO CURRENCY IS A TRAIT/CHARACTERISTIC OF EU CLUB and we are working towards prices, strenghtening the economy etc. READ more carefully what I have said earlier.

You also said "This is precisely why Spain, Romania, Slovakia and Cyprus refuse to recognize Kosovo, because they believe that recognizing Kosovo will have serious repurcussions on an international scale, not only on a domestic one."

I fully disagree with you in this point. Can you please find a single example where an issue with international repercussions, endorsed by EU big 4, was vetoed by other EU countries....None!

I hope this time you understand better what I meant.

Don't laugh at it.
EU has proven it can twist all legal aspects and apply double,tripple, etc.. standards where it suits their needs.

Serbia in numerous aspects regarding "standards" is ahead of Greece (stray animals management, public health, highway/transportation network, new IDs, faster pace of adopting new technologies and adapting to new needs, BY FAR more efficient police, highway patrol, etc...),
but that doesn't say a lot i guess, since EU is not about substance but about politics.

Wow, SAA is 3 years? Sounds good to me!

In that case all of the Albanains will leave Kosovo for a brighter future elsewhere leaving the Serbians as the remaining majority. That will certainly make life easy for us.

At least other countries will have to deal with their explosive population growth. Perhaps Cornwall in the UK will be the next Albanian state?

Nothing wrong with optimism. It is a characteristic of Kosovars and it is something no one can deny them, especially since they now have a state of their own. THe future of Kosovo is solely on their hands.

As for the 'external chatter' - we've learned to ignore the unnecessary noise and will continue to do so. Our focus is peace and prosperity, within the norms of the civilized world - which in majority, has already recognized out statehood.

If not 3 years, then 5 years - as long as we work on it. At least we know that our government is serious about EU, unlike our neighbors.

"EU is not about substance but about politics."

Well said, Pyrros. I begin to believe, this is possible. Afghanistan could join EU within a year as a "unique case" if there is a political reason, as absurd as it may sound.

Peter Sudyka:

I did not say I wanted Kosovo to be a member anytime soon. I don't think it is possible, as I said, because they have so far to come both institutionally and economically. That is not to say they should never be a member. I support enlargment of the EU wholeheartedly, once countries meet the economic and institutional criteria to be a productive member (Kosovo should probably be hoping to join alonside Georgia and Ukraine).

And my comment about Italy was a facetious remark aimed at Luigi's reoccurring comments that he wants the new-EU countries thrown out.

Bruce, you are missing something crucial. Kosovo first needs to be a country before it can enter the EU. It would help even if the EU recognised it as such!

However, you can be sure that will not happen.

I don't know if there are polar bears or pinguins inhabiting sar mountains(who is interested can ask Gorani's who live up there). All I know that we(Kosovars) are moing forward while serbia is moving backwards.

Peace

"In cases when independence is not given (like it was the case with Kosova) then it is claimed. If there was an agreement between Serbia and Kosova on independence then we could say that independence was given, but since there was no chance reaching an agreement on this issue Kosova had to declare (claim) independence, what was very closely coordinated with US and EU. "

Hehe, you are right, but what you say does not differ from what I said. Kosovo declared independence (claimed), West recognized (gave). Had an agreement been reached, it would not differ either, Kosovo would declare independence (claim), Serbia would have recognized (given).

"As you say “West and Russia have their ways in twisting laws for their own benefit”, so even if Kosova will not be ready in 3 years time to join EU, I’m sure EU will be ready for Kosova."

The EU should not make an exception for Kosovo, because many former communist states (including my country) had to go through a long and difficult process to finally be accepted in into the EU, why should Kosovo be an exception to what everybody else had to go through? Kosovo needs to prove that it can function as an EU state, not be taken as a charity case out of pity or anything else.

Prishtinas

"Under the pressure of the Biggest EU powers all remaining EU countries give in. Please help me by giving me one example when something backed by the Big EU powers was vetoed by other EU small less-influencing nations. I would like to know."

Turkey.

"We, under the international community, have achieved the most advanced/ultimate laws with respect to human rights."

You have achieved nothing. Saying that you will have such a constitution and actually successfully executing it are two entirely different things.

"It is meaningless how EURO is adopted. "

No it isn't, why do you think half of the EU hasn't adopted the Euro as of yet? You have any idea about how macroeconomics actually work?

"Let me tell you that I am right on those points as well. "

Not even in the slightest.

Kosovo will not be a member in three years time. I doubt that and SAA will even be signed by then.
SAA negotiations cannot be started without unanimity of members, and so will not happen until all recognise independence (which may take a few years minimum). Following that the SAA will take 3-4 years (and maybe longer given Kosovo's very poor economy), but I am using Albania as a basis. Even then the GDP of Kosovo, and its institutions will not be close to European norms. There's no way the member states wil allow Kosovo to join until its economy is significantly better, with more employment, and less crime.

Luigi:

I see you don't want to expand the EU, and want to throw some countries out. My first nomination for an EU eviction would be Italy. Probably the worst economic performance and government in the EU. At least the new countries have strong GDP growth. Slovenia, Czech Rep and Estonia will have overtaken Italy soon. Italy has only been spared a complete economic crisis because of Euro membership.

On 12 March 2008 15:08, Bruce wrote:

> My first nomination for an EU eviction would be Italy. Probably the worst economic performance and government in the EU.

I have to agree with you there Bruce. The Italian government, both central and regional, is a joke. 60 different governments since WW2 I think. Berlusconi - need I say more? Corruption everywhere.

Now for something slightly on topic: How long before Northern Italy separates from their poor cousins in the south and on Sicily?

This is guy is laughing stock.

Bruce
Well i still prefer to live in Italy than in all the other countries that you mention..
But i can agree that we are lagging all the other countries for the Gdp growth
so if you want we can leave the club...
Pyrros
Alfa Romeo have done great cars unfortunately the Napoli facility made cars with some "little" problems ok ok ..
As for THE Magna-Grecia they too like the idea of enough is enough i can tell you...

Isn't it a little early for an April Fool's joke?

Bruce and Jan Andersen

OMG!!! You guys are saying Kosovo should enter the EU but Italy should be kicked out???

You want to replace a stalwart and cornerstone of European and international history (Ancient Rome), culture (Vatican City, renaissance etc.), achievements (football, sports cars etc.), science (Galileo, Da Vinci etc.), art (Donatello, Michaelangelo etc.), music (opera, classical) etc. for someone like, no offense, Kosovo???

"Don't tell me this guy used to be head of the tourist board who said there were Polar bears in the Sar Planina???"

He's the guy who went up the mountain and painted the bears with white Dulux matt emulsion. Woud have been a great marketing ploy had it come off.

However problem was, when it rained the paint fell off.

Imagine the next trend among the albanian kosovars in B92, to be euro-skeptik, and to state "intelligent" comments *against* "potential" EU membership!!!

ZK:

I noted that in my first comment and said it would take years (in international diplomacy 'never' is a very strong word - Ian Paisley used to use it a lot, and now he is N Ireland first minister). But maybe you will be right - time will tell.

Peace

Nobody said Kosovo would not be independent, because independence is not given, it is claimed, anyone can claim it, only recognition is given, no one said that nobody would recognize it.

Regarding EU and UN membership, it is a different story, as membership is given, not claimed, and for it to be given, there needs to be unanimous approval from the UNSC and the EU, where in both there is none.

That was the price Kosovo had to pay for its independence, this is why two things would have to happen to allow Kosovo to join either of these two:

1) Negotiations start again and a mutually acceptable agreement is reached, allowing the states against Kosovo independence to accept it and Kosovo will have a future in the EU and UN (which is improbable now, since the West just prematurely shot off a decision, not taking into account the consequences, unless they have some other plan to obstruct regulations)

2) A pro-Western Serbian government comes into power that is willing to let Kosovo go and then recognize Kosovo (with Serbian inat, do you ever consider this a possibility? Not likely).

I am pretty certain that Kosovo will not join the EU or the UN, though I am not saying it is impossible, the West and Russia have their ways in twisting laws for their own benefit.

Prishtinas:

You are wrong on three points

3. You may have the Euro as a currency, but this is adopted unilaterally without intrinsic EU support, and you are thus unable to mint you own coinage (like Andorra and Montnegro but unlike the Vatican, San Marino and Monaco). This does not make them EU, so does not make you EU.

4. You do NOT have the most advanced democratic and human rights in Europe. To think so is laughable. I accept your wish for independence, but please do not delude yourselve sthat your country is some paradise. Please look at the study done by Freedom House which rates Kosovo as the worst place for human and democratic rights in Europe (excluding ex-USSR) and rate Kosovo as far worse than Serbia.

5. Under current EU rules all natons must ratify the treaty of accession for new states, and thus any state (via non ratification) can block EU membership. Again the situation may change, and the whole of the EU may begin to support Kosovo independence, but do not peddle lies as facts.

Prishtinas

Why do you think everyone is on about even little Cyprus and their opinion of Kosovo's independence? Because even little Cyprus is able to veto Kosovo's entry into the EU. Why do you think Turkey is not?

The "big four" are obviously the largest and most powerful in the EU, but not in any way more power than little Cyprus and Malta when it comes to the voting process in terms of EU member state enlargement.

Another issue to take into consideration is that the EU as an organization needs to recognize the sovereignty of Kosovo before it can consider them in the expansion process, which is also not a reality now. The reality is that the EU recognizes Kosovo as an integral part of Serbia under UNSCR1244, though individual states are allowed to recognize Kosovo if they so wish, but this does not constitute unity.

Unfortunately I have noticed that the Kosovo Albanians live in a dream world where they think none of this matter, but the sooner they realize this, the less disappointed they will be when they realize that they can't even begin by signing the SAA, let alone candidate status and beyond that.

As Bruce says, maybe it will change, but maybe it won't. It is you who needs to refrain from comedy, because all the determined action in the world will not get you into the EU, thanks to even little Cyprus and Slovakia.

Oh and one more thing, I doubt those incredible minority rights that you boast of are felt by Kosovo's Serbs and Roma. Laws are one thing, enforcement is another, read the Copenhagen Criteria for EU membership on minority rights, and you will see how far Kosovo is from Europe.

If only Spain dont recognise Kosovo independence and they say that's something they will never do then Kosovo can't even initiate The SAA.

Prishtinas

"I have a substantial Macroeconomic background to understand EU instistutions, EU laws, EU economics...but I ALSO have substantial psychological background to understand your naivety in the EU bureacracy. However feel FREE to keep your line of thinking. "

You must be very clever with all that substantial knowledge on everything.

So let me get something straight, because you have the Euro, does that mean the prices for everything from petrol and consumer goods to electronics and properties are the same as in other countries where they have the Euro as per formal agreement? Does that mean that wages in Kosovo in Euro are the same as they are in other countries that have the Euro as per formal agreement? If so, then why is the economic situation in Kosovo more similar to that of Congo rather than it is to, let's say, Slovenia? It is because your "Euro" was adopted without a formal agreement, therefore you are not considered a part of the Eurozone, that is what Bruce meant, this means that anyone can adopt the Euro unilaterally, it does not make them a Eurozone state.

If Kosovo was to gain formal Eurozone status, it would mean that they would have had to have gone through the entire economic restructuring process to reach certain economic standards for the economy to be able to handle the Euro on a formal basis, like in the all the Eurozone states.

"5. EU small countries are more likely to veto affairs that have only European repercussions. Kosovo vis-a-vis EU is a major International topic and cannot be compared to EU couuntries issues to Lisbon, Mastrich Treaty etc..."

This is precisely why Spain, Romania, Slovakia and Cyprus refuse to recognize Kosovo, because they believe that recognizing Kosovo will have serious repurcussions on an international scale, not only on a domestic one. Not everyone believes this "sui generis" argument that the US and some EU states feed them regarding recognition, otherwise they would have all recognized Kosovo had they thought it would not start a precedent on an international scale.

Prishtinas

How could u then explain these to 2 situations?
Croatia that is backed up by Germany, has a economy 100 years ahead of Kosovo still hasnt joined the EU.
Montnegro has also signed the SSA, has no disputes whatever, has more and more tourists each year, a small population of 650.000 and also hast joined the EU.

If u want to belive that no standards have to be reached to join the EU and the EU is actually some kind Red cross there u obviosly do not want to here things that do not please u.
U say u have a large knowledge of macroecomics, well could u could include these factors - Kosovo has one of the lowest GDP in Europe , the highest birth rate in Europe, the population density is close to 200 per square kilometer, one of the highest in Europe, unemploymet is enourmous.

Prishtinas

"THE EURO CURRENCY IS A TRAIT/CHARACTERISTIC OF EU CLUB and we are working towards prices, strenghtening the economy etc. READ more carefully what I have said earlier. "

Alright, fair enough, the Euro is a characteristic of EU states, but what I am arguing is that I feel to see how this contributes to Kosovo supposedly being 80% part of the EU, as you put it earlier.

"Can you please find a single example where an issue with international repercussions, endorsed by EU big 4, was vetoed by other EU countries....None!"

Turkey.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/6160637.stm