Sunday, 16.08.2009.
09:34
Albanian Prime Minister Sali Berisha said that the national unity of Albanians should be a key idea in the policies of Albania and Kosovo.
Izvor: Beta
pre 14 godina
I read in this article some comments made by a Pole about Albanians breeding too much and the hence the risk of outnumbering the Poles. There should be a reason why there are far more Poles than Albanians (probably 100 million vs 6 million). The question is: Who breeded more?
pre 14 godina
All u need is spark in Balkans."kosova' will last as long as Americans can afford it and NATO can stay as one.Greece,FYROM,Serbia,Crna Gora all have a stake in this.Will NATO bomb Serbia when Albanians try and take Presevo and end up losing Kosovo? Russia is building the gas pipeline and will have vested interest in the region. Bondsteel is there for the AMBO "or whatever" pipeline but if Russia finishes first Bondsteel will lose its purpose that is not to say they will leave.Regionally Albanian mini-imperialism could end up with them losing everything.Germany is still Serbia's oldest and 2nd most danerous enemy after US Russia would have to work diplomatic relations with them.
pre 14 godina
BH-NYC
"So you now know what’s better for these EU countries than they do?!!"
Well, this depends on what the ultimate goal of the EU is, is it the welfare of its natural citizens in the long-term, or is it pure capitalism where money and growth is first and foremost.
"My dear Peter, these citizenships were not taken by force. No one went from Pakistan, Turkey, Algeria and forced UK, Germany, France to hand them citizenships or ‘else’. They were given to them willingly."
I don't deny this, but if you don't consider this a MASSIVE mistake on behalf of the liberal politicians at the time, then it is you who are deluded. You don't seem to understand that the sheer carrying capacity of the countries in question is as risk in the long-term, since Europe is crowed as it is, and the massive birth rates of those immigrants will be the final nail in the coffin.
"The same people who awarded them with c/ships could have very simply kicked them out."
Too late for that now, they should have thought of that in the 60's and 70's. Now, where are they going to kick out a Dutch-born Moroccan? I suppose back to Morocco, since they don't integrate anyway. That was when Europe contracted HIV. Soon it will become full-blown AIDS.
"But if you continue to think that you (a Pole) can protect these countries’ interests better than their politicians can, then you’re truly deluded."
What difference does it make if I'm Polish, or not? I have the right to my opinion, does not make it law. Oh, and on the Polish issue, do you know who is the current head of the European parliament? Do some research, you might be in for a rude surprize.
"The reason why these immigrants are still there, living, praying studying in their native languages is not because ‘it’s too late’ but because they are democratic countries who respect human rights."
Let's see how long this ultra-liberal stance and that of the general populace holds, when Muslims start to become more and more prominent in European demographics, housing and employment become more and more scare, and more and more taxes go towards welfare of these enormous muslim families who cannot afford their many children.
"Obviously this is to hard for you to grasp coming from a Stalinist culture but eventually you might understand why no poor immigrants seek better life in Poland, Russia and your other sister countries."
Coming from an Albanian, that is rich! Albania was 100X more Stalinist than even the USSR could dream to be! Poland, on the other hand, hammered the first nail in the coffin of Communism with Solidarnoœć.
Also, in case you didn't know, Russia has MILLIONS of immigrants, coming from Central Asia, the Caucasus, Africa and China. Do some reading, times have changed. It is enough to go to Warszawa, Kraków or Poznañ, and you will see many Vietnamese, African and Arab students, obviously something about Poland must have been attractive to them. In fact, I personally knew four Albanians that studied in Warsaw University.
How many immigrants go to Albania for a better life?
BTW. The Al-Fayed thing provided a good laugh, thanks for that.
pre 14 godina
""...in the end, Serbia will prevail.
let´s just see what future brings...
(Jovan, 16 August 2009 22:02) "
How Jovane, the same way as it has prevailed until now?
(alban3, 17 August 2009 00:56) "
alban3, you don´t understand it seems...
we´re just at the beginning...
and yes, Serbia will prevail.
and I am convinced that you will once again be the (historical) losers...
but, yours is it to wait.
pre 14 godina
(Peter Sudyka, 18 August 2009 14:52)
Mohamed Al-Fayed has most probably paid more tax than everyone in your list together.
P.S.
…..and he hasn’t got the citizenship.
pre 14 godina
(Peter Sudyka, 18 August 2009 14:07)
Ah, now I’ve heard it all. So you now know what’s better for these EU countries than they do?!!
My dear Peter, these citizenships were not taken by force. No one went from Pakistan, Turkey, Algeria and forced UK, Germany, France to hand them citizenships or ‘else’. They were given to them willingly. The same people who awarded them with c/ships could have very simply kicked them out. But if you continue to think that you (a Pole) can protect these countries’ interests better than their politicians can, then you’re truly deluded.
The reason why these immigrants are still there, living, praying studying in their native languages is not because ‘it’s too late’ but because they are democratic countries who respect human rights. Obviously this is to hard for you to grasp coming from a Stalinist culture but eventually you might understand why no poor immigrants seek better life in Poland, Russia and your other sister countries.
pre 14 godina
BH_NYC
It's too late for that. The amount of muslims in Europe number 20 million already. They are breeding very quickly, and even with the borders closed, these ones are already there, many (if not, most) with citizenship.
Where are these governments going to deport them to, as you seem to suggest?
The EU has gone and shot themselves in the foot, with spineless liberal politicians signing the unions own death warrant.
This is the negative side to liberalism (like all other ideologies used by states/empires in the past).
Do you think that the European people will simply allow this to happen, and that they will let their politicians swamp their countries with unchecked amounts of immigrants?
You think housing and jobs are endless and that taking advantage of government aid (from taxes) will not be the eventual cause of massive friction between Europeans and the masses of immigrants?
The EU won't last forever, that I can assure you now.
And comparing Poles to these immigrants is ludicrous, Poles come to work and to go home, they do not settle, bring over their whole families, breed like rabbits, demand their language in schools, get offended by the slightest criticism of their culture (causing protests, riots and burning of flags) and live of welfare. Poland is getting better and more and more Poles are coming home.
Charles Martel, Jan Sobieski, Janos Hunyadi, Queen Isabella, Skenderbeg etc. would be turning in their graves if they saw what is happening to Europe!
pre 14 godina
BHC-NY
Regarding Poles, here is another article showing why you should not compare us to the other immigrants:
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/eu-migrants-good-for-uk-economy-1759279.html
"In 2008-09, arrivals from new EU members the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia paid 37 per cent more in taxes than they took in welfare payments and from public services, he said."
pre 14 godina
The question being which albanians? How long will it be before Tirana thinks it is a good idea to impose its influence on Pristina, because it is the daddy of all albanians? It's only a matter of time before they start fighting each other over power and ever limited resources.
Peter, the Albanians can have as many children as they want, they just have to pay for it with loans from the IMF and their sugar daddies in the EU. Switching subsidies from Tito's Yugoslavia to the EU is the only way to subsidize their unsustainable way of life or maybe the unemployed can be used as shock troops by NATO in its never ending wars.
Nobody else is going to give them jobs and clearly they do not need any good relations with their biggest neighbor and market, Serbia. There can't be many employed albanian accountants about.
Why Tito thought throwing money at the albanian minority would work is a mystery. Clearly Kosovo would have been much better off under Enver Hoxa - it would have been richer, there would have been more jobs, they would have been freer etc. etc. LOL!
pre 14 godina
(Peter Sudyka, 18 August 2009 08:54)
The moment the EU felt threatened by the rising number of immigrants they'd shut the doors down immediately. Did you think they allowed Poles in to do YOU a favour or is it because they needed you? Same goes for other nationalities. As Jackie Mason said once (or twice) just go into any kitchen and there you'll find the illegal immigrants. If these ‘threatened’ countries really wanted to find and expel them they’d do it in a month. They need a work force and Kosova has got plenty. Kosova can not send old people to work abroad but luckily they don’t have to. On the other hand the Poles have one child each and that child gets exported to the UK to become a cherry picker. Why have three, one who could work and two to study when you could just have one you could kick out of the country instead. Admirable parenting!
pre 14 godina
Ment and Denis
I am criticizing this view that many Albanians here are harping on about the takeover of Macedonia through outbreeding of the local Slavic population.
The first world countries of the West are only trying to get their birthrates up, because the 3rd world immigrants into those countries are breeding like rabbits, sometimes having up to 5-6 children, as opposed to the European 1-2 (which I have seen with my own eyes, thus I do not even need to read the statistics), and the scary prospect of these countries' demographic profiles shifting in favour of a Muslim majority within a century. Maybe Poland isn't quite 1st world in terms of economy yet, but definitely in terms of mentality, where we have less children to be able to provide stability and a good life for them (at the cost of pumping out several children and then struggling to tend for them properly, hence the rising unemployment and crime rates in Europe, something that was practically unheard of before the EU decided to, if you pardon my language, whore itself to immigration).
pre 14 godina
That Albanians breed like people in other 3rd World countries? What an achievement, you should be truly proud of that.
(Peter Sudyka, 17 August 2009 09:17)
Peter, if there is a perverversion in our modern lifestyle today, is that of having a negative growth rate as human beings, this is why Poland's population growth now days is -.5% per year. Oh yes, this makes Poland 1rst world country.
An Albanian woman has an average of 2 children. If this is something from the 3rd world for you, God save you.
pre 14 godina
Folks here need to understand the difference between "unity" and "unification."
Like a few Albanians here, I'm all for "unity", but not necessarily for "unification."
There's no reason for unification other than nostalgia and that's a pretty weak one as far as I'm concerned...with a lot of headaches no one needs.
Peter
If Albanian birth rates (which are "high" only by Western European standards by the way) makes us "un-European", then how do you explain that France and Germany are bending over backwards to increase fertility rates?
What's so "European" about facing a demographic collapse?
Because that's what Poland, Italy, Germany, and many other "eastern european" countries, including Serbia, will be facing in the not-so-distant future.
pre 14 godina
I want a house in Skadar,
I don`t need a big one.
Thanks Salih!
pre 14 godina
PM Berisha was talking about a union in the EU context. That means that the borders that now separate Albania and Kosovo will disappear, as will all the borders in the pathetic Balkans. Still don't get it? 20 years of fighting and looking to the past, while few in here look to the future that we should all strive for; a future without borders, where we respect and most impotently know each other. We are so ignorant of each other and that makes us intolerant and so un European.
Kosovo belongs to the inhabitants of that land, regardless of the ethnicity, not to the politicians of Tirana or Belgrade. Peace brothers!
pre 14 godina
He is thinking to blow what we build last 2 years, something what albania did to many times to Kosova.
What a politican ?!
pre 14 godina
K-Alb are generally ignorant of internal Albanian politics. They like Berisha first because he is from the northern Albania and second because he makes these statements of heavy words, empty and meaningless.
A few months ago Berisha was talking about giving the port of Shengjin to Kosovo in the name of "Albanian unity", and K-Alb were so excited about it. Little they know that the port of Shengjin and all other Albanian ports, have always been there for K-Alb to use as they please, and that Shengjin is the smallest and less functional port in Albania. Thus, due to their ignorance of Albanian affairs, Berisha treats K-Alb like sheeps.
Berisha has been all about words for Kosovo, and indeed he has served the Serbian cause a lot more than the Albanian one through his actions. Enough to mention here the oil/goods contraband with Yugoslavia and the civil war Albania experienced under his leadership in 97, that made Albania a country which could not hold itself let alone to protect the interest of K-Alb.
In terms of politics, Berisha is the Milosevic of Albania.
Albania should find a way to stay away from these kind of unecessary confrontations. The Albanian-Kosovo border is open and sooner or later will be wide open no matter if Berisha says so or not. Serbs must understand that as I am sure they would have done the same.
But Albania should become a hub of trade and economic exchange for Serbia as well, as it's only in its interest, and this environment of extremism does not help at all.
Albania and Serbia should increase their economic cooperation by using Kosovo as a bridge.
Although I think that considering the situation, Serbia does not have a chance to control Kosovo any more, Albania and Serbia should not let the Kosovo issue get in the way of their economic coperation. This will ease the tensions and the possibility of armed conflicts in the future.
pre 14 godina
"Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots"
(Mike, 16 August 2009 18:16)
Can you provide any link when/where did he said that??? Or perhaps we should just take your word??
(ben, 16 August 2009 20:42)"
Written by one of your own compatriots.
[link]
(Mike, 16 August 2009 23:58)
Mike, you are the third reference and you post me a link of the second reference who doesn't provide any reference neither- just his words.
So, when/where Berisha said that?? Not someone says that Berisha said that and this- I didn’t ask you that. It's completely different.
And how did you find this old article in peripheral journal?? Are you professional hunter of everything negatively that has been written regarding Albanians??
pre 14 godina
Salih Berisha is hero for Albanians in Kosovo ,after Ibrahim Rugova.Salih Berisha is our PM,Salih Berisha is inspiration for Albanians.I bet that in 2020,Balkan will have new maps,inside this map will write ETHNIC ALBANIA.
pre 14 godina
Nelli
"No wonder Mr. Berisha's approval rating in Kosova is more than 90%."
But not very high in the EU, since Albania was not afforded the VISA-free regime, unlike the rest of the Balkans were.
"In less than 30 years Albanians in Macedonia will be a majority which means there will be a Victory without firing a single bullet, another words the vote of the people will make it happen. Now can anyone smell what I'm cooking?."
That Albanians breed like people in other 3rd World countries? What an achievement, you should be truly proud of that.
pre 14 godina
Finally people understand how Kosovo should be. Finally the cild is getting with the mother after 100 years of Serb regime. Finally Kosovars will be happy again.
Thanks USA
pre 14 godina
I’d be curious to see Kosovo go for a land grab against the Gheg speaking regions of Albania aftering gobbling up Macedonia. I often wonder if this division of Albania and Kosovo will result in creating two distinct ethnicities (Sort of like the examples of Serb\Montenegrin\Bosniak\Croatian or Macedonia\Bulgarian). My understanding is that Gheg have resented in the past being forced to use Tosk as their official language.
How is that handled in Albania itself?
Mike, you’ve out done yourself in more than one way. So incredibly witty and hilarious, but so terribly nationalistic. I love, yet hate at the same time…
pre 14 godina
"...in the end, Serbia will prevail.
let´s just see what future brings...
(Jovan, 16 August 2009 22:02) "
How Jovane, the same way as it has prevailed until now?
pre 14 godina
I hope that things move beyond the context in which this debate is occurring - readers of the Albanian press know well what I'm talking about - and they move ahead regardless of the issues that brought about the debate in the first place. The functional unity, despite being brought forth almost incidentally, should now take center stage, and is certainly a move in the right direction. Berisha is now in the unique position of being the most influential and popular politician among Kosovars, almost as influential as once Rugova was. Berisha is being very smart by acting quickly and proactively from finding himself in hot waters, while still helping his allies, but despite the fact that he's talking in the direction of Kosova, his eyes are towards his own electorate in Albania. Some cynical analysts that were dumbfound how he managed to stay above water after Gerdec, simply are not looking at the right place to find the source of his strength. Look at the numbers: from 150K that crossed Morine last summer, 530K did this July alone. What's not to love? As far as common folk are concerned, Berisha builds highways, he brings in tourists, plus massive investments from Italy and EU - over 5 bln euro in one year alone. Edi has ran out of paint and out of steam, and looks out of date and out of touch. Who would have thought?
On the other hand, as far as Kosovar politics are concerned, Thaci better analyze the forces that are comming to the fore. He shouldn't rush, but two things to look for:
1- What Ramush is doing, because Thaci is on the verge of being outsmarted. Sejdiu realized this, that's why he did what he did.
2- What will happen in the PS congress in September. After that he better act quickly, because he doesn't have much time. He can simply mirror what Ramush is doing, if only to take the edge off. The deck at this point is slanted somewhat against him, due mostly to the sleepiness of his administration, especially in the intl front. Some things are out of his hands, that's understood, but new opportunities are being opened up in a whole new unexpected direction, and if he swims with the current, he still have a chance of not being left out in November.
pre 14 godina
"Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots"
(Mike, 16 August 2009 18:16)
Can you provide any link when/where did he said that??? Or perhaps we should just take your word??
(ben, 16 August 2009 20:42)"
Written by one of your own compatriots.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/erion-veliaj/washington-shouldnt-be-fo_b_53869.html
pre 14 godina
Kosovo is under international administration so this is not up to Berisa or Thaci.
However, just imagine if they were ever to "unite". Now that would create one huge Serbian province.
pre 14 godina
first of all:
it´s always amusing to read the comments of our dear albanian friends here...
just one article with ambiguous remarks of this PM with the funny face and they literally unveil their rather simple-minded mask.
kids, if you dream about being the majority in Macedonia, so be it.
but due to realistic forecasts I do really doubt that your childish wishful thinking is gonna come true.
and if the Albanians should dare to make the ultimate mistake... the could lose more than they had before.
I don´t write that because of hatred towards the Albanians, not at all.
I write it because I am deeply convinced that you Albanians are on a bad way, intoxicated by the "success" of these former chickenthieves and nightclub-bouncers that are now calling themselves "PM" or "President", without realizing that they are risking it all.
in the end, Serbia will prevail.
let´s just see what future brings...
pre 14 godina
"My goodness, will you just look at all the Neo-Illyrians here practically wetting their pants in glee that after 45,000 years the oldest nation this side of the Garden of Eden will apparently be reunited in an unstoppable force of Albanian awesomeness."
-Mike, this was a masterpiece of literary genius. As a former English major, I would like to commend your choice of words as well as the accuracy they represent. Bravo, sir. Bravo!
pre 14 godina
Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots"
(Mike, 16 August 2009 18:16)
Can you provide any link when/where did he said that??? Or perhaps we should just take your word??
pre 14 godina
lol @ vacationing in Albania.
sounds like a blast.
pre 14 godina
PM Berisha is talking about unifying policies such as social insurance, better infastructure, etc. Of course the serb camp jumps up accusing --- I feel like you guys are republicans.
death panels
pre 14 godina
Who are you to decide where the border is going to be and who will go to war?
pre 14 godina
My goodness, will you just look at all the Neo-Illyrians here practically wetting their pants in glee that after 45,000 years the oldest nation this side of the Garden of Eden will apparently be reunited in an unstoppable force of Albanian awesomeness. Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots" to be the living embodiment of Skanderbeg! Next thing you know, we'll be seeing Holy Visions of Mother Theresa leading a charge of angels to drive every Greek and Slav into the sea. Well maybe some here should pray for a holy miracle. It's probably the only way Greater Albania is ever going to be realized.
pre 14 godina
There is very low desire from both albanians in Albania and Kosovo for a union.Both know and very well realise this.
I think Berisha merely means a cultural and economic union rather than change borders.
Having said that the guy is not able to unite Albanians inside Albania never mind Kosovo.
pre 14 godina
Before you take a full day debating this one, expect for the next clarification from his office that Albanian PM did not mean a change of borders and abides by all the international agreements, specifically those agreed or implied by the European Union and NATO.
Albania has just applied to become a member of EU. Tirana will not jeopardize this project and Berisha's words for now will be considered taken out of context.
Of course, in the future the Albanian lands will unite in a European context where borders have little practical meaning. I don't see how this can be stopped if the Serbs or the Macedonians are true about their intention to join Europe. Hopefully by then Lexus will matter a bit more and the olive tree a bit less.
pre 14 godina
"Yet another reminder that "Kosovo independence" is all about Greater Albania and a shameless landgrab.
The scene has been set for a wider Balkans conflict.
"Kosovo independence" must be reversed and territorial sovereignty respected.
Kosovo is Serbia
(George, 16 August 2009 13:05)
---
Yeah George, but Greece will surely not participate in any war, to scared of losing everything. You are entitled to your opinion as I am of mine:
Thrace is Bulgaria
Cyprus is Turkey,
Chameria is Albania
South Macedonia is Bulgarian
---"Statistics from Kosovo's own media say that 1/3 Albanians have plans to leave Kosovo - so your idea is evaporating as we speak. Add to that fact that most "refugees" in other countries don't want to come back here because of all the problems... not that I blame them."
That tells you what exactly, "Jason"? Nothing. People from Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Albania FYROMania all want to emigrate, find a job and take care of the family back home.
pre 14 godina
Yes, Nelli, why don't you leave your comfortable Canada and start working towards this fairytale by moving here? Statistics from Kosovo's own media say that 1/3 Albanians have plans to leave Kosovo - so your idea is evaporating as we speak. Add to that fact that most "refugees" in other countries don't want to come back here because of all the problems... not that I blame them. Greater Albania is a joke, so get over yourself. It is easy for people in comfy Western countries to cry and scream about Albanian patriotism but getting you all to come back ad do it is another matter.
pre 14 godina
“There should be no customs between these two countries. Under no conditions should Albania and Kosovo look at each other the way they look at foreign countries, which has nothing to do with the sovereignty of both countries,”
it made my day,that would make up about 6 milion in population and more comming ahead...
pre 14 godina
"In less than 30 years Albanians in Macedonia will be a majority which means...."
If this really happens, it would only show how far Albanians are away from average European standards - in fact, it's closer to a typical 3rd world country...
pre 14 godina
Yet another reminder that "Kosovo independence" is all about Greater Albania and a shameless landgrab.
The scene has been set for a wider Balkans conflict.
"Kosovo independence" must be reversed and territorial sovereignty respected.
Kosovo is Serbia
pre 14 godina
And it begins!!! After thousands of years the Albanians finally will begin the much needed work to unite the people and the nation together. I know, I know the Serb camp will call this move as the new "Greater Albania" projects. But who is listening???
Bringing the Albanians and Albanian land together since 1444.
pre 14 godina
Who said that Kosovo was to protect the albanians when in fact it was merely a ploy to build a greater Albania? Watch out Macedonia
pre 14 godina
Salih my man I know exactly how you feel, but trust me Albanians in Kosova feel the same way.
Please come to Prishtina or invite authorities to come to beatiuful Tirana and sign the deal ASAP (that way we know it's official).
Not only the borders shouldn't exist but they must reunite in one country just like it was before.
No wonder Mr. Berisha's approval rating in Kosova is more than 90%.
Also Mr.Berisha didn't mind spending more than one billion dollars in the newest hiway/tunnel which by the way has reunited the nation. That's a golden investment and successful project.
He is the man who beat the communist regime in Albania and all he wants is a better future for each and every Albanian. Personally for me he is almost another Great Skenderbeg.
In less than 30 years Albanians in Macedonia will be a majority which means there will be a Victory without firing a single bullet, another words the vote of the people will make it happen. Now can anyone smell what I'm cooking?.
pre 14 godina
"He said that a change in government would not effect projects which Albanians most continue to work on together."
- I guess "projects" entails the smuggling of heroin, stolen vehicles, and persons. :)
pre 14 godina
Sounds like Berisha is proposing a "Greater Albania" and in the near future annex Kosovo. I want to hear a reponse from Tadic about this. This is a dangerous trend that can spread through out Europe, if EU allows this then other countries like Hungary might start this kind of policy.
pre 14 godina
The relations between Kosovo and Albania should be the same as the relations between Serbia Srpska and Montenegro. If both sides realize that the road to reconciliation between Serbs and Albanians will be opened!
pre 14 godina
Yes, Nelli, why don't you leave your comfortable Canada and start working towards this fairytale by moving here? Statistics from Kosovo's own media say that 1/3 Albanians have plans to leave Kosovo - so your idea is evaporating as we speak. Add to that fact that most "refugees" in other countries don't want to come back here because of all the problems... not that I blame them. Greater Albania is a joke, so get over yourself. It is easy for people in comfy Western countries to cry and scream about Albanian patriotism but getting you all to come back ad do it is another matter.
pre 14 godina
Sounds like Berisha is proposing a "Greater Albania" and in the near future annex Kosovo. I want to hear a reponse from Tadic about this. This is a dangerous trend that can spread through out Europe, if EU allows this then other countries like Hungary might start this kind of policy.
pre 14 godina
Yet another reminder that "Kosovo independence" is all about Greater Albania and a shameless landgrab.
The scene has been set for a wider Balkans conflict.
"Kosovo independence" must be reversed and territorial sovereignty respected.
Kosovo is Serbia
pre 14 godina
My goodness, will you just look at all the Neo-Illyrians here practically wetting their pants in glee that after 45,000 years the oldest nation this side of the Garden of Eden will apparently be reunited in an unstoppable force of Albanian awesomeness. Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots" to be the living embodiment of Skanderbeg! Next thing you know, we'll be seeing Holy Visions of Mother Theresa leading a charge of angels to drive every Greek and Slav into the sea. Well maybe some here should pray for a holy miracle. It's probably the only way Greater Albania is ever going to be realized.
pre 14 godina
"He said that a change in government would not effect projects which Albanians most continue to work on together."
- I guess "projects" entails the smuggling of heroin, stolen vehicles, and persons. :)
pre 14 godina
Who said that Kosovo was to protect the albanians when in fact it was merely a ploy to build a greater Albania? Watch out Macedonia
pre 14 godina
"In less than 30 years Albanians in Macedonia will be a majority which means...."
If this really happens, it would only show how far Albanians are away from average European standards - in fact, it's closer to a typical 3rd world country...
pre 14 godina
Salih my man I know exactly how you feel, but trust me Albanians in Kosova feel the same way.
Please come to Prishtina or invite authorities to come to beatiuful Tirana and sign the deal ASAP (that way we know it's official).
Not only the borders shouldn't exist but they must reunite in one country just like it was before.
No wonder Mr. Berisha's approval rating in Kosova is more than 90%.
Also Mr.Berisha didn't mind spending more than one billion dollars in the newest hiway/tunnel which by the way has reunited the nation. That's a golden investment and successful project.
He is the man who beat the communist regime in Albania and all he wants is a better future for each and every Albanian. Personally for me he is almost another Great Skenderbeg.
In less than 30 years Albanians in Macedonia will be a majority which means there will be a Victory without firing a single bullet, another words the vote of the people will make it happen. Now can anyone smell what I'm cooking?.
pre 14 godina
There is very low desire from both albanians in Albania and Kosovo for a union.Both know and very well realise this.
I think Berisha merely means a cultural and economic union rather than change borders.
Having said that the guy is not able to unite Albanians inside Albania never mind Kosovo.
pre 14 godina
"Yet another reminder that "Kosovo independence" is all about Greater Albania and a shameless landgrab.
The scene has been set for a wider Balkans conflict.
"Kosovo independence" must be reversed and territorial sovereignty respected.
Kosovo is Serbia
(George, 16 August 2009 13:05)
---
Yeah George, but Greece will surely not participate in any war, to scared of losing everything. You are entitled to your opinion as I am of mine:
Thrace is Bulgaria
Cyprus is Turkey,
Chameria is Albania
South Macedonia is Bulgarian
---"Statistics from Kosovo's own media say that 1/3 Albanians have plans to leave Kosovo - so your idea is evaporating as we speak. Add to that fact that most "refugees" in other countries don't want to come back here because of all the problems... not that I blame them."
That tells you what exactly, "Jason"? Nothing. People from Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Albania FYROMania all want to emigrate, find a job and take care of the family back home.
pre 14 godina
And it begins!!! After thousands of years the Albanians finally will begin the much needed work to unite the people and the nation together. I know, I know the Serb camp will call this move as the new "Greater Albania" projects. But who is listening???
Bringing the Albanians and Albanian land together since 1444.
pre 14 godina
“There should be no customs between these two countries. Under no conditions should Albania and Kosovo look at each other the way they look at foreign countries, which has nothing to do with the sovereignty of both countries,”
it made my day,that would make up about 6 milion in population and more comming ahead...
pre 14 godina
"Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots"
(Mike, 16 August 2009 18:16)
Can you provide any link when/where did he said that??? Or perhaps we should just take your word??
(ben, 16 August 2009 20:42)"
Written by one of your own compatriots.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/erion-veliaj/washington-shouldnt-be-fo_b_53869.html
pre 14 godina
Nelli
"No wonder Mr. Berisha's approval rating in Kosova is more than 90%."
But not very high in the EU, since Albania was not afforded the VISA-free regime, unlike the rest of the Balkans were.
"In less than 30 years Albanians in Macedonia will be a majority which means there will be a Victory without firing a single bullet, another words the vote of the people will make it happen. Now can anyone smell what I'm cooking?."
That Albanians breed like people in other 3rd World countries? What an achievement, you should be truly proud of that.
pre 14 godina
Kosovo is under international administration so this is not up to Berisa or Thaci.
However, just imagine if they were ever to "unite". Now that would create one huge Serbian province.
pre 14 godina
"My goodness, will you just look at all the Neo-Illyrians here practically wetting their pants in glee that after 45,000 years the oldest nation this side of the Garden of Eden will apparently be reunited in an unstoppable force of Albanian awesomeness."
-Mike, this was a masterpiece of literary genius. As a former English major, I would like to commend your choice of words as well as the accuracy they represent. Bravo, sir. Bravo!
pre 14 godina
The relations between Kosovo and Albania should be the same as the relations between Serbia Srpska and Montenegro. If both sides realize that the road to reconciliation between Serbs and Albanians will be opened!
pre 14 godina
lol @ vacationing in Albania.
sounds like a blast.
pre 14 godina
Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots"
(Mike, 16 August 2009 18:16)
Can you provide any link when/where did he said that??? Or perhaps we should just take your word??
pre 14 godina
first of all:
it´s always amusing to read the comments of our dear albanian friends here...
just one article with ambiguous remarks of this PM with the funny face and they literally unveil their rather simple-minded mask.
kids, if you dream about being the majority in Macedonia, so be it.
but due to realistic forecasts I do really doubt that your childish wishful thinking is gonna come true.
and if the Albanians should dare to make the ultimate mistake... the could lose more than they had before.
I don´t write that because of hatred towards the Albanians, not at all.
I write it because I am deeply convinced that you Albanians are on a bad way, intoxicated by the "success" of these former chickenthieves and nightclub-bouncers that are now calling themselves "PM" or "President", without realizing that they are risking it all.
in the end, Serbia will prevail.
let´s just see what future brings...
pre 14 godina
PM Berisha is talking about unifying policies such as social insurance, better infastructure, etc. Of course the serb camp jumps up accusing --- I feel like you guys are republicans.
death panels
pre 14 godina
Finally people understand how Kosovo should be. Finally the cild is getting with the mother after 100 years of Serb regime. Finally Kosovars will be happy again.
Thanks USA
pre 14 godina
K-Alb are generally ignorant of internal Albanian politics. They like Berisha first because he is from the northern Albania and second because he makes these statements of heavy words, empty and meaningless.
A few months ago Berisha was talking about giving the port of Shengjin to Kosovo in the name of "Albanian unity", and K-Alb were so excited about it. Little they know that the port of Shengjin and all other Albanian ports, have always been there for K-Alb to use as they please, and that Shengjin is the smallest and less functional port in Albania. Thus, due to their ignorance of Albanian affairs, Berisha treats K-Alb like sheeps.
Berisha has been all about words for Kosovo, and indeed he has served the Serbian cause a lot more than the Albanian one through his actions. Enough to mention here the oil/goods contraband with Yugoslavia and the civil war Albania experienced under his leadership in 97, that made Albania a country which could not hold itself let alone to protect the interest of K-Alb.
In terms of politics, Berisha is the Milosevic of Albania.
Albania should find a way to stay away from these kind of unecessary confrontations. The Albanian-Kosovo border is open and sooner or later will be wide open no matter if Berisha says so or not. Serbs must understand that as I am sure they would have done the same.
But Albania should become a hub of trade and economic exchange for Serbia as well, as it's only in its interest, and this environment of extremism does not help at all.
Albania and Serbia should increase their economic cooperation by using Kosovo as a bridge.
Although I think that considering the situation, Serbia does not have a chance to control Kosovo any more, Albania and Serbia should not let the Kosovo issue get in the way of their economic coperation. This will ease the tensions and the possibility of armed conflicts in the future.
pre 14 godina
"Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots"
(Mike, 16 August 2009 18:16)
Can you provide any link when/where did he said that??? Or perhaps we should just take your word??
(ben, 16 August 2009 20:42)"
Written by one of your own compatriots.
[link]
(Mike, 16 August 2009 23:58)
Mike, you are the third reference and you post me a link of the second reference who doesn't provide any reference neither- just his words.
So, when/where Berisha said that?? Not someone says that Berisha said that and this- I didn’t ask you that. It's completely different.
And how did you find this old article in peripheral journal?? Are you professional hunter of everything negatively that has been written regarding Albanians??
pre 14 godina
PM Berisha was talking about a union in the EU context. That means that the borders that now separate Albania and Kosovo will disappear, as will all the borders in the pathetic Balkans. Still don't get it? 20 years of fighting and looking to the past, while few in here look to the future that we should all strive for; a future without borders, where we respect and most impotently know each other. We are so ignorant of each other and that makes us intolerant and so un European.
Kosovo belongs to the inhabitants of that land, regardless of the ethnicity, not to the politicians of Tirana or Belgrade. Peace brothers!
pre 14 godina
"...in the end, Serbia will prevail.
let´s just see what future brings...
(Jovan, 16 August 2009 22:02) "
How Jovane, the same way as it has prevailed until now?
pre 14 godina
Before you take a full day debating this one, expect for the next clarification from his office that Albanian PM did not mean a change of borders and abides by all the international agreements, specifically those agreed or implied by the European Union and NATO.
Albania has just applied to become a member of EU. Tirana will not jeopardize this project and Berisha's words for now will be considered taken out of context.
Of course, in the future the Albanian lands will unite in a European context where borders have little practical meaning. I don't see how this can be stopped if the Serbs or the Macedonians are true about their intention to join Europe. Hopefully by then Lexus will matter a bit more and the olive tree a bit less.
pre 14 godina
Salih Berisha is hero for Albanians in Kosovo ,after Ibrahim Rugova.Salih Berisha is our PM,Salih Berisha is inspiration for Albanians.I bet that in 2020,Balkan will have new maps,inside this map will write ETHNIC ALBANIA.
pre 14 godina
That Albanians breed like people in other 3rd World countries? What an achievement, you should be truly proud of that.
(Peter Sudyka, 17 August 2009 09:17)
Peter, if there is a perverversion in our modern lifestyle today, is that of having a negative growth rate as human beings, this is why Poland's population growth now days is -.5% per year. Oh yes, this makes Poland 1rst world country.
An Albanian woman has an average of 2 children. If this is something from the 3rd world for you, God save you.
pre 14 godina
I hope that things move beyond the context in which this debate is occurring - readers of the Albanian press know well what I'm talking about - and they move ahead regardless of the issues that brought about the debate in the first place. The functional unity, despite being brought forth almost incidentally, should now take center stage, and is certainly a move in the right direction. Berisha is now in the unique position of being the most influential and popular politician among Kosovars, almost as influential as once Rugova was. Berisha is being very smart by acting quickly and proactively from finding himself in hot waters, while still helping his allies, but despite the fact that he's talking in the direction of Kosova, his eyes are towards his own electorate in Albania. Some cynical analysts that were dumbfound how he managed to stay above water after Gerdec, simply are not looking at the right place to find the source of his strength. Look at the numbers: from 150K that crossed Morine last summer, 530K did this July alone. What's not to love? As far as common folk are concerned, Berisha builds highways, he brings in tourists, plus massive investments from Italy and EU - over 5 bln euro in one year alone. Edi has ran out of paint and out of steam, and looks out of date and out of touch. Who would have thought?
On the other hand, as far as Kosovar politics are concerned, Thaci better analyze the forces that are comming to the fore. He shouldn't rush, but two things to look for:
1- What Ramush is doing, because Thaci is on the verge of being outsmarted. Sejdiu realized this, that's why he did what he did.
2- What will happen in the PS congress in September. After that he better act quickly, because he doesn't have much time. He can simply mirror what Ramush is doing, if only to take the edge off. The deck at this point is slanted somewhat against him, due mostly to the sleepiness of his administration, especially in the intl front. Some things are out of his hands, that's understood, but new opportunities are being opened up in a whole new unexpected direction, and if he swims with the current, he still have a chance of not being left out in November.
pre 14 godina
Folks here need to understand the difference between "unity" and "unification."
Like a few Albanians here, I'm all for "unity", but not necessarily for "unification."
There's no reason for unification other than nostalgia and that's a pretty weak one as far as I'm concerned...with a lot of headaches no one needs.
Peter
If Albanian birth rates (which are "high" only by Western European standards by the way) makes us "un-European", then how do you explain that France and Germany are bending over backwards to increase fertility rates?
What's so "European" about facing a demographic collapse?
Because that's what Poland, Italy, Germany, and many other "eastern european" countries, including Serbia, will be facing in the not-so-distant future.
pre 14 godina
I’d be curious to see Kosovo go for a land grab against the Gheg speaking regions of Albania aftering gobbling up Macedonia. I often wonder if this division of Albania and Kosovo will result in creating two distinct ethnicities (Sort of like the examples of Serb\Montenegrin\Bosniak\Croatian or Macedonia\Bulgarian). My understanding is that Gheg have resented in the past being forced to use Tosk as their official language.
How is that handled in Albania itself?
Mike, you’ve out done yourself in more than one way. So incredibly witty and hilarious, but so terribly nationalistic. I love, yet hate at the same time…
pre 14 godina
I want a house in Skadar,
I don`t need a big one.
Thanks Salih!
pre 14 godina
Ment and Denis
I am criticizing this view that many Albanians here are harping on about the takeover of Macedonia through outbreeding of the local Slavic population.
The first world countries of the West are only trying to get their birthrates up, because the 3rd world immigrants into those countries are breeding like rabbits, sometimes having up to 5-6 children, as opposed to the European 1-2 (which I have seen with my own eyes, thus I do not even need to read the statistics), and the scary prospect of these countries' demographic profiles shifting in favour of a Muslim majority within a century. Maybe Poland isn't quite 1st world in terms of economy yet, but definitely in terms of mentality, where we have less children to be able to provide stability and a good life for them (at the cost of pumping out several children and then struggling to tend for them properly, hence the rising unemployment and crime rates in Europe, something that was practically unheard of before the EU decided to, if you pardon my language, whore itself to immigration).
pre 14 godina
Who are you to decide where the border is going to be and who will go to war?
pre 14 godina
(Peter Sudyka, 18 August 2009 08:54)
The moment the EU felt threatened by the rising number of immigrants they'd shut the doors down immediately. Did you think they allowed Poles in to do YOU a favour or is it because they needed you? Same goes for other nationalities. As Jackie Mason said once (or twice) just go into any kitchen and there you'll find the illegal immigrants. If these ‘threatened’ countries really wanted to find and expel them they’d do it in a month. They need a work force and Kosova has got plenty. Kosova can not send old people to work abroad but luckily they don’t have to. On the other hand the Poles have one child each and that child gets exported to the UK to become a cherry picker. Why have three, one who could work and two to study when you could just have one you could kick out of the country instead. Admirable parenting!
pre 14 godina
(Peter Sudyka, 18 August 2009 14:52)
Mohamed Al-Fayed has most probably paid more tax than everyone in your list together.
P.S.
…..and he hasn’t got the citizenship.
pre 14 godina
BH_NYC
It's too late for that. The amount of muslims in Europe number 20 million already. They are breeding very quickly, and even with the borders closed, these ones are already there, many (if not, most) with citizenship.
Where are these governments going to deport them to, as you seem to suggest?
The EU has gone and shot themselves in the foot, with spineless liberal politicians signing the unions own death warrant.
This is the negative side to liberalism (like all other ideologies used by states/empires in the past).
Do you think that the European people will simply allow this to happen, and that they will let their politicians swamp their countries with unchecked amounts of immigrants?
You think housing and jobs are endless and that taking advantage of government aid (from taxes) will not be the eventual cause of massive friction between Europeans and the masses of immigrants?
The EU won't last forever, that I can assure you now.
And comparing Poles to these immigrants is ludicrous, Poles come to work and to go home, they do not settle, bring over their whole families, breed like rabbits, demand their language in schools, get offended by the slightest criticism of their culture (causing protests, riots and burning of flags) and live of welfare. Poland is getting better and more and more Poles are coming home.
Charles Martel, Jan Sobieski, Janos Hunyadi, Queen Isabella, Skenderbeg etc. would be turning in their graves if they saw what is happening to Europe!
pre 14 godina
(Peter Sudyka, 18 August 2009 14:07)
Ah, now I’ve heard it all. So you now know what’s better for these EU countries than they do?!!
My dear Peter, these citizenships were not taken by force. No one went from Pakistan, Turkey, Algeria and forced UK, Germany, France to hand them citizenships or ‘else’. They were given to them willingly. The same people who awarded them with c/ships could have very simply kicked them out. But if you continue to think that you (a Pole) can protect these countries’ interests better than their politicians can, then you’re truly deluded.
The reason why these immigrants are still there, living, praying studying in their native languages is not because ‘it’s too late’ but because they are democratic countries who respect human rights. Obviously this is to hard for you to grasp coming from a Stalinist culture but eventually you might understand why no poor immigrants seek better life in Poland, Russia and your other sister countries.
pre 14 godina
The question being which albanians? How long will it be before Tirana thinks it is a good idea to impose its influence on Pristina, because it is the daddy of all albanians? It's only a matter of time before they start fighting each other over power and ever limited resources.
Peter, the Albanians can have as many children as they want, they just have to pay for it with loans from the IMF and their sugar daddies in the EU. Switching subsidies from Tito's Yugoslavia to the EU is the only way to subsidize their unsustainable way of life or maybe the unemployed can be used as shock troops by NATO in its never ending wars.
Nobody else is going to give them jobs and clearly they do not need any good relations with their biggest neighbor and market, Serbia. There can't be many employed albanian accountants about.
Why Tito thought throwing money at the albanian minority would work is a mystery. Clearly Kosovo would have been much better off under Enver Hoxa - it would have been richer, there would have been more jobs, they would have been freer etc. etc. LOL!
pre 14 godina
BHC-NY
Regarding Poles, here is another article showing why you should not compare us to the other immigrants:
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/eu-migrants-good-for-uk-economy-1759279.html
"In 2008-09, arrivals from new EU members the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia paid 37 per cent more in taxes than they took in welfare payments and from public services, he said."
pre 14 godina
He is thinking to blow what we build last 2 years, something what albania did to many times to Kosova.
What a politican ?!
pre 14 godina
""...in the end, Serbia will prevail.
let´s just see what future brings...
(Jovan, 16 August 2009 22:02) "
How Jovane, the same way as it has prevailed until now?
(alban3, 17 August 2009 00:56) "
alban3, you don´t understand it seems...
we´re just at the beginning...
and yes, Serbia will prevail.
and I am convinced that you will once again be the (historical) losers...
but, yours is it to wait.
pre 14 godina
BH-NYC
"So you now know what’s better for these EU countries than they do?!!"
Well, this depends on what the ultimate goal of the EU is, is it the welfare of its natural citizens in the long-term, or is it pure capitalism where money and growth is first and foremost.
"My dear Peter, these citizenships were not taken by force. No one went from Pakistan, Turkey, Algeria and forced UK, Germany, France to hand them citizenships or ‘else’. They were given to them willingly."
I don't deny this, but if you don't consider this a MASSIVE mistake on behalf of the liberal politicians at the time, then it is you who are deluded. You don't seem to understand that the sheer carrying capacity of the countries in question is as risk in the long-term, since Europe is crowed as it is, and the massive birth rates of those immigrants will be the final nail in the coffin.
"The same people who awarded them with c/ships could have very simply kicked them out."
Too late for that now, they should have thought of that in the 60's and 70's. Now, where are they going to kick out a Dutch-born Moroccan? I suppose back to Morocco, since they don't integrate anyway. That was when Europe contracted HIV. Soon it will become full-blown AIDS.
"But if you continue to think that you (a Pole) can protect these countries’ interests better than their politicians can, then you’re truly deluded."
What difference does it make if I'm Polish, or not? I have the right to my opinion, does not make it law. Oh, and on the Polish issue, do you know who is the current head of the European parliament? Do some research, you might be in for a rude surprize.
"The reason why these immigrants are still there, living, praying studying in their native languages is not because ‘it’s too late’ but because they are democratic countries who respect human rights."
Let's see how long this ultra-liberal stance and that of the general populace holds, when Muslims start to become more and more prominent in European demographics, housing and employment become more and more scare, and more and more taxes go towards welfare of these enormous muslim families who cannot afford their many children.
"Obviously this is to hard for you to grasp coming from a Stalinist culture but eventually you might understand why no poor immigrants seek better life in Poland, Russia and your other sister countries."
Coming from an Albanian, that is rich! Albania was 100X more Stalinist than even the USSR could dream to be! Poland, on the other hand, hammered the first nail in the coffin of Communism with Solidarnoœć.
Also, in case you didn't know, Russia has MILLIONS of immigrants, coming from Central Asia, the Caucasus, Africa and China. Do some reading, times have changed. It is enough to go to Warszawa, Kraków or Poznañ, and you will see many Vietnamese, African and Arab students, obviously something about Poland must have been attractive to them. In fact, I personally knew four Albanians that studied in Warsaw University.
How many immigrants go to Albania for a better life?
BTW. The Al-Fayed thing provided a good laugh, thanks for that.
pre 14 godina
All u need is spark in Balkans."kosova' will last as long as Americans can afford it and NATO can stay as one.Greece,FYROM,Serbia,Crna Gora all have a stake in this.Will NATO bomb Serbia when Albanians try and take Presevo and end up losing Kosovo? Russia is building the gas pipeline and will have vested interest in the region. Bondsteel is there for the AMBO "or whatever" pipeline but if Russia finishes first Bondsteel will lose its purpose that is not to say they will leave.Regionally Albanian mini-imperialism could end up with them losing everything.Germany is still Serbia's oldest and 2nd most danerous enemy after US Russia would have to work diplomatic relations with them.
pre 14 godina
I read in this article some comments made by a Pole about Albanians breeding too much and the hence the risk of outnumbering the Poles. There should be a reason why there are far more Poles than Albanians (probably 100 million vs 6 million). The question is: Who breeded more?
pre 14 godina
Salih my man I know exactly how you feel, but trust me Albanians in Kosova feel the same way.
Please come to Prishtina or invite authorities to come to beatiuful Tirana and sign the deal ASAP (that way we know it's official).
Not only the borders shouldn't exist but they must reunite in one country just like it was before.
No wonder Mr. Berisha's approval rating in Kosova is more than 90%.
Also Mr.Berisha didn't mind spending more than one billion dollars in the newest hiway/tunnel which by the way has reunited the nation. That's a golden investment and successful project.
He is the man who beat the communist regime in Albania and all he wants is a better future for each and every Albanian. Personally for me he is almost another Great Skenderbeg.
In less than 30 years Albanians in Macedonia will be a majority which means there will be a Victory without firing a single bullet, another words the vote of the people will make it happen. Now can anyone smell what I'm cooking?.
pre 14 godina
"He said that a change in government would not effect projects which Albanians most continue to work on together."
- I guess "projects" entails the smuggling of heroin, stolen vehicles, and persons. :)
pre 14 godina
Yet another reminder that "Kosovo independence" is all about Greater Albania and a shameless landgrab.
The scene has been set for a wider Balkans conflict.
"Kosovo independence" must be reversed and territorial sovereignty respected.
Kosovo is Serbia
pre 14 godina
And it begins!!! After thousands of years the Albanians finally will begin the much needed work to unite the people and the nation together. I know, I know the Serb camp will call this move as the new "Greater Albania" projects. But who is listening???
Bringing the Albanians and Albanian land together since 1444.
pre 14 godina
Sounds like Berisha is proposing a "Greater Albania" and in the near future annex Kosovo. I want to hear a reponse from Tadic about this. This is a dangerous trend that can spread through out Europe, if EU allows this then other countries like Hungary might start this kind of policy.
pre 14 godina
"Yet another reminder that "Kosovo independence" is all about Greater Albania and a shameless landgrab.
The scene has been set for a wider Balkans conflict.
"Kosovo independence" must be reversed and territorial sovereignty respected.
Kosovo is Serbia
(George, 16 August 2009 13:05)
---
Yeah George, but Greece will surely not participate in any war, to scared of losing everything. You are entitled to your opinion as I am of mine:
Thrace is Bulgaria
Cyprus is Turkey,
Chameria is Albania
South Macedonia is Bulgarian
---"Statistics from Kosovo's own media say that 1/3 Albanians have plans to leave Kosovo - so your idea is evaporating as we speak. Add to that fact that most "refugees" in other countries don't want to come back here because of all the problems... not that I blame them."
That tells you what exactly, "Jason"? Nothing. People from Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Albania FYROMania all want to emigrate, find a job and take care of the family back home.
pre 14 godina
"In less than 30 years Albanians in Macedonia will be a majority which means...."
If this really happens, it would only show how far Albanians are away from average European standards - in fact, it's closer to a typical 3rd world country...
pre 14 godina
Who said that Kosovo was to protect the albanians when in fact it was merely a ploy to build a greater Albania? Watch out Macedonia
pre 14 godina
“There should be no customs between these two countries. Under no conditions should Albania and Kosovo look at each other the way they look at foreign countries, which has nothing to do with the sovereignty of both countries,”
it made my day,that would make up about 6 milion in population and more comming ahead...
pre 14 godina
Kosovo is under international administration so this is not up to Berisa or Thaci.
However, just imagine if they were ever to "unite". Now that would create one huge Serbian province.
pre 14 godina
Finally people understand how Kosovo should be. Finally the cild is getting with the mother after 100 years of Serb regime. Finally Kosovars will be happy again.
Thanks USA
pre 14 godina
Yes, Nelli, why don't you leave your comfortable Canada and start working towards this fairytale by moving here? Statistics from Kosovo's own media say that 1/3 Albanians have plans to leave Kosovo - so your idea is evaporating as we speak. Add to that fact that most "refugees" in other countries don't want to come back here because of all the problems... not that I blame them. Greater Albania is a joke, so get over yourself. It is easy for people in comfy Western countries to cry and scream about Albanian patriotism but getting you all to come back ad do it is another matter.
pre 14 godina
My goodness, will you just look at all the Neo-Illyrians here practically wetting their pants in glee that after 45,000 years the oldest nation this side of the Garden of Eden will apparently be reunited in an unstoppable force of Albanian awesomeness. Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots" to be the living embodiment of Skanderbeg! Next thing you know, we'll be seeing Holy Visions of Mother Theresa leading a charge of angels to drive every Greek and Slav into the sea. Well maybe some here should pray for a holy miracle. It's probably the only way Greater Albania is ever going to be realized.
pre 14 godina
PM Berisha is talking about unifying policies such as social insurance, better infastructure, etc. Of course the serb camp jumps up accusing --- I feel like you guys are republicans.
death panels
pre 14 godina
Salih Berisha is hero for Albanians in Kosovo ,after Ibrahim Rugova.Salih Berisha is our PM,Salih Berisha is inspiration for Albanians.I bet that in 2020,Balkan will have new maps,inside this map will write ETHNIC ALBANIA.
pre 14 godina
"...in the end, Serbia will prevail.
let´s just see what future brings...
(Jovan, 16 August 2009 22:02) "
How Jovane, the same way as it has prevailed until now?
pre 14 godina
"Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots"
(Mike, 16 August 2009 18:16)
Can you provide any link when/where did he said that??? Or perhaps we should just take your word??
(ben, 16 August 2009 20:42)"
Written by one of your own compatriots.
[link]
(Mike, 16 August 2009 23:58)
Mike, you are the third reference and you post me a link of the second reference who doesn't provide any reference neither- just his words.
So, when/where Berisha said that?? Not someone says that Berisha said that and this- I didn’t ask you that. It's completely different.
And how did you find this old article in peripheral journal?? Are you professional hunter of everything negatively that has been written regarding Albanians??
pre 14 godina
The relations between Kosovo and Albania should be the same as the relations between Serbia Srpska and Montenegro. If both sides realize that the road to reconciliation between Serbs and Albanians will be opened!
pre 14 godina
first of all:
it´s always amusing to read the comments of our dear albanian friends here...
just one article with ambiguous remarks of this PM with the funny face and they literally unveil their rather simple-minded mask.
kids, if you dream about being the majority in Macedonia, so be it.
but due to realistic forecasts I do really doubt that your childish wishful thinking is gonna come true.
and if the Albanians should dare to make the ultimate mistake... the could lose more than they had before.
I don´t write that because of hatred towards the Albanians, not at all.
I write it because I am deeply convinced that you Albanians are on a bad way, intoxicated by the "success" of these former chickenthieves and nightclub-bouncers that are now calling themselves "PM" or "President", without realizing that they are risking it all.
in the end, Serbia will prevail.
let´s just see what future brings...
pre 14 godina
There is very low desire from both albanians in Albania and Kosovo for a union.Both know and very well realise this.
I think Berisha merely means a cultural and economic union rather than change borders.
Having said that the guy is not able to unite Albanians inside Albania never mind Kosovo.
pre 14 godina
Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots"
(Mike, 16 August 2009 18:16)
Can you provide any link when/where did he said that??? Or perhaps we should just take your word??
pre 14 godina
"My goodness, will you just look at all the Neo-Illyrians here practically wetting their pants in glee that after 45,000 years the oldest nation this side of the Garden of Eden will apparently be reunited in an unstoppable force of Albanian awesomeness."
-Mike, this was a masterpiece of literary genius. As a former English major, I would like to commend your choice of words as well as the accuracy they represent. Bravo, sir. Bravo!
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Before you take a full day debating this one, expect for the next clarification from his office that Albanian PM did not mean a change of borders and abides by all the international agreements, specifically those agreed or implied by the European Union and NATO.
Albania has just applied to become a member of EU. Tirana will not jeopardize this project and Berisha's words for now will be considered taken out of context.
Of course, in the future the Albanian lands will unite in a European context where borders have little practical meaning. I don't see how this can be stopped if the Serbs or the Macedonians are true about their intention to join Europe. Hopefully by then Lexus will matter a bit more and the olive tree a bit less.
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Nelli
"No wonder Mr. Berisha's approval rating in Kosova is more than 90%."
But not very high in the EU, since Albania was not afforded the VISA-free regime, unlike the rest of the Balkans were.
"In less than 30 years Albanians in Macedonia will be a majority which means there will be a Victory without firing a single bullet, another words the vote of the people will make it happen. Now can anyone smell what I'm cooking?."
That Albanians breed like people in other 3rd World countries? What an achievement, you should be truly proud of that.
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Who are you to decide where the border is going to be and who will go to war?
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I’d be curious to see Kosovo go for a land grab against the Gheg speaking regions of Albania aftering gobbling up Macedonia. I often wonder if this division of Albania and Kosovo will result in creating two distinct ethnicities (Sort of like the examples of Serb\Montenegrin\Bosniak\Croatian or Macedonia\Bulgarian). My understanding is that Gheg have resented in the past being forced to use Tosk as their official language.
How is that handled in Albania itself?
Mike, you’ve out done yourself in more than one way. So incredibly witty and hilarious, but so terribly nationalistic. I love, yet hate at the same time…
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Ment and Denis
I am criticizing this view that many Albanians here are harping on about the takeover of Macedonia through outbreeding of the local Slavic population.
The first world countries of the West are only trying to get their birthrates up, because the 3rd world immigrants into those countries are breeding like rabbits, sometimes having up to 5-6 children, as opposed to the European 1-2 (which I have seen with my own eyes, thus I do not even need to read the statistics), and the scary prospect of these countries' demographic profiles shifting in favour of a Muslim majority within a century. Maybe Poland isn't quite 1st world in terms of economy yet, but definitely in terms of mentality, where we have less children to be able to provide stability and a good life for them (at the cost of pumping out several children and then struggling to tend for them properly, hence the rising unemployment and crime rates in Europe, something that was practically unheard of before the EU decided to, if you pardon my language, whore itself to immigration).
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lol @ vacationing in Albania.
sounds like a blast.
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I hope that things move beyond the context in which this debate is occurring - readers of the Albanian press know well what I'm talking about - and they move ahead regardless of the issues that brought about the debate in the first place. The functional unity, despite being brought forth almost incidentally, should now take center stage, and is certainly a move in the right direction. Berisha is now in the unique position of being the most influential and popular politician among Kosovars, almost as influential as once Rugova was. Berisha is being very smart by acting quickly and proactively from finding himself in hot waters, while still helping his allies, but despite the fact that he's talking in the direction of Kosova, his eyes are towards his own electorate in Albania. Some cynical analysts that were dumbfound how he managed to stay above water after Gerdec, simply are not looking at the right place to find the source of his strength. Look at the numbers: from 150K that crossed Morine last summer, 530K did this July alone. What's not to love? As far as common folk are concerned, Berisha builds highways, he brings in tourists, plus massive investments from Italy and EU - over 5 bln euro in one year alone. Edi has ran out of paint and out of steam, and looks out of date and out of touch. Who would have thought?
On the other hand, as far as Kosovar politics are concerned, Thaci better analyze the forces that are comming to the fore. He shouldn't rush, but two things to look for:
1- What Ramush is doing, because Thaci is on the verge of being outsmarted. Sejdiu realized this, that's why he did what he did.
2- What will happen in the PS congress in September. After that he better act quickly, because he doesn't have much time. He can simply mirror what Ramush is doing, if only to take the edge off. The deck at this point is slanted somewhat against him, due mostly to the sleepiness of his administration, especially in the intl front. Some things are out of his hands, that's understood, but new opportunities are being opened up in a whole new unexpected direction, and if he swims with the current, he still have a chance of not being left out in November.
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K-Alb are generally ignorant of internal Albanian politics. They like Berisha first because he is from the northern Albania and second because he makes these statements of heavy words, empty and meaningless.
A few months ago Berisha was talking about giving the port of Shengjin to Kosovo in the name of "Albanian unity", and K-Alb were so excited about it. Little they know that the port of Shengjin and all other Albanian ports, have always been there for K-Alb to use as they please, and that Shengjin is the smallest and less functional port in Albania. Thus, due to their ignorance of Albanian affairs, Berisha treats K-Alb like sheeps.
Berisha has been all about words for Kosovo, and indeed he has served the Serbian cause a lot more than the Albanian one through his actions. Enough to mention here the oil/goods contraband with Yugoslavia and the civil war Albania experienced under his leadership in 97, that made Albania a country which could not hold itself let alone to protect the interest of K-Alb.
In terms of politics, Berisha is the Milosevic of Albania.
Albania should find a way to stay away from these kind of unecessary confrontations. The Albanian-Kosovo border is open and sooner or later will be wide open no matter if Berisha says so or not. Serbs must understand that as I am sure they would have done the same.
But Albania should become a hub of trade and economic exchange for Serbia as well, as it's only in its interest, and this environment of extremism does not help at all.
Albania and Serbia should increase their economic cooperation by using Kosovo as a bridge.
Although I think that considering the situation, Serbia does not have a chance to control Kosovo any more, Albania and Serbia should not let the Kosovo issue get in the way of their economic coperation. This will ease the tensions and the possibility of armed conflicts in the future.
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(Peter Sudyka, 18 August 2009 14:07)
Ah, now I’ve heard it all. So you now know what’s better for these EU countries than they do?!!
My dear Peter, these citizenships were not taken by force. No one went from Pakistan, Turkey, Algeria and forced UK, Germany, France to hand them citizenships or ‘else’. They were given to them willingly. The same people who awarded them with c/ships could have very simply kicked them out. But if you continue to think that you (a Pole) can protect these countries’ interests better than their politicians can, then you’re truly deluded.
The reason why these immigrants are still there, living, praying studying in their native languages is not because ‘it’s too late’ but because they are democratic countries who respect human rights. Obviously this is to hard for you to grasp coming from a Stalinist culture but eventually you might understand why no poor immigrants seek better life in Poland, Russia and your other sister countries.
pre 14 godina
He is thinking to blow what we build last 2 years, something what albania did to many times to Kosova.
What a politican ?!
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"Why some are even equating Sali Berisha, one of the most corrupt men in all of Southeastern Europe, and a man who routinely calls his political opponents "Jews and faggots"
(Mike, 16 August 2009 18:16)
Can you provide any link when/where did he said that??? Or perhaps we should just take your word??
(ben, 16 August 2009 20:42)"
Written by one of your own compatriots.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/erion-veliaj/washington-shouldnt-be-fo_b_53869.html
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PM Berisha was talking about a union in the EU context. That means that the borders that now separate Albania and Kosovo will disappear, as will all the borders in the pathetic Balkans. Still don't get it? 20 years of fighting and looking to the past, while few in here look to the future that we should all strive for; a future without borders, where we respect and most impotently know each other. We are so ignorant of each other and that makes us intolerant and so un European.
Kosovo belongs to the inhabitants of that land, regardless of the ethnicity, not to the politicians of Tirana or Belgrade. Peace brothers!
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That Albanians breed like people in other 3rd World countries? What an achievement, you should be truly proud of that.
(Peter Sudyka, 17 August 2009 09:17)
Peter, if there is a perverversion in our modern lifestyle today, is that of having a negative growth rate as human beings, this is why Poland's population growth now days is -.5% per year. Oh yes, this makes Poland 1rst world country.
An Albanian woman has an average of 2 children. If this is something from the 3rd world for you, God save you.
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(Peter Sudyka, 18 August 2009 14:52)
Mohamed Al-Fayed has most probably paid more tax than everyone in your list together.
P.S.
…..and he hasn’t got the citizenship.
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I want a house in Skadar,
I don`t need a big one.
Thanks Salih!
pre 14 godina
Folks here need to understand the difference between "unity" and "unification."
Like a few Albanians here, I'm all for "unity", but not necessarily for "unification."
There's no reason for unification other than nostalgia and that's a pretty weak one as far as I'm concerned...with a lot of headaches no one needs.
Peter
If Albanian birth rates (which are "high" only by Western European standards by the way) makes us "un-European", then how do you explain that France and Germany are bending over backwards to increase fertility rates?
What's so "European" about facing a demographic collapse?
Because that's what Poland, Italy, Germany, and many other "eastern european" countries, including Serbia, will be facing in the not-so-distant future.
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BH_NYC
It's too late for that. The amount of muslims in Europe number 20 million already. They are breeding very quickly, and even with the borders closed, these ones are already there, many (if not, most) with citizenship.
Where are these governments going to deport them to, as you seem to suggest?
The EU has gone and shot themselves in the foot, with spineless liberal politicians signing the unions own death warrant.
This is the negative side to liberalism (like all other ideologies used by states/empires in the past).
Do you think that the European people will simply allow this to happen, and that they will let their politicians swamp their countries with unchecked amounts of immigrants?
You think housing and jobs are endless and that taking advantage of government aid (from taxes) will not be the eventual cause of massive friction between Europeans and the masses of immigrants?
The EU won't last forever, that I can assure you now.
And comparing Poles to these immigrants is ludicrous, Poles come to work and to go home, they do not settle, bring over their whole families, breed like rabbits, demand their language in schools, get offended by the slightest criticism of their culture (causing protests, riots and burning of flags) and live of welfare. Poland is getting better and more and more Poles are coming home.
Charles Martel, Jan Sobieski, Janos Hunyadi, Queen Isabella, Skenderbeg etc. would be turning in their graves if they saw what is happening to Europe!
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The question being which albanians? How long will it be before Tirana thinks it is a good idea to impose its influence on Pristina, because it is the daddy of all albanians? It's only a matter of time before they start fighting each other over power and ever limited resources.
Peter, the Albanians can have as many children as they want, they just have to pay for it with loans from the IMF and their sugar daddies in the EU. Switching subsidies from Tito's Yugoslavia to the EU is the only way to subsidize their unsustainable way of life or maybe the unemployed can be used as shock troops by NATO in its never ending wars.
Nobody else is going to give them jobs and clearly they do not need any good relations with their biggest neighbor and market, Serbia. There can't be many employed albanian accountants about.
Why Tito thought throwing money at the albanian minority would work is a mystery. Clearly Kosovo would have been much better off under Enver Hoxa - it would have been richer, there would have been more jobs, they would have been freer etc. etc. LOL!
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""...in the end, Serbia will prevail.
let´s just see what future brings...
(Jovan, 16 August 2009 22:02) "
How Jovane, the same way as it has prevailed until now?
(alban3, 17 August 2009 00:56) "
alban3, you don´t understand it seems...
we´re just at the beginning...
and yes, Serbia will prevail.
and I am convinced that you will once again be the (historical) losers...
but, yours is it to wait.
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BHC-NY
Regarding Poles, here is another article showing why you should not compare us to the other immigrants:
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/eu-migrants-good-for-uk-economy-1759279.html
"In 2008-09, arrivals from new EU members the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia paid 37 per cent more in taxes than they took in welfare payments and from public services, he said."
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BH-NYC
"So you now know what’s better for these EU countries than they do?!!"
Well, this depends on what the ultimate goal of the EU is, is it the welfare of its natural citizens in the long-term, or is it pure capitalism where money and growth is first and foremost.
"My dear Peter, these citizenships were not taken by force. No one went from Pakistan, Turkey, Algeria and forced UK, Germany, France to hand them citizenships or ‘else’. They were given to them willingly."
I don't deny this, but if you don't consider this a MASSIVE mistake on behalf of the liberal politicians at the time, then it is you who are deluded. You don't seem to understand that the sheer carrying capacity of the countries in question is as risk in the long-term, since Europe is crowed as it is, and the massive birth rates of those immigrants will be the final nail in the coffin.
"The same people who awarded them with c/ships could have very simply kicked them out."
Too late for that now, they should have thought of that in the 60's and 70's. Now, where are they going to kick out a Dutch-born Moroccan? I suppose back to Morocco, since they don't integrate anyway. That was when Europe contracted HIV. Soon it will become full-blown AIDS.
"But if you continue to think that you (a Pole) can protect these countries’ interests better than their politicians can, then you’re truly deluded."
What difference does it make if I'm Polish, or not? I have the right to my opinion, does not make it law. Oh, and on the Polish issue, do you know who is the current head of the European parliament? Do some research, you might be in for a rude surprize.
"The reason why these immigrants are still there, living, praying studying in their native languages is not because ‘it’s too late’ but because they are democratic countries who respect human rights."
Let's see how long this ultra-liberal stance and that of the general populace holds, when Muslims start to become more and more prominent in European demographics, housing and employment become more and more scare, and more and more taxes go towards welfare of these enormous muslim families who cannot afford their many children.
"Obviously this is to hard for you to grasp coming from a Stalinist culture but eventually you might understand why no poor immigrants seek better life in Poland, Russia and your other sister countries."
Coming from an Albanian, that is rich! Albania was 100X more Stalinist than even the USSR could dream to be! Poland, on the other hand, hammered the first nail in the coffin of Communism with Solidarnoœć.
Also, in case you didn't know, Russia has MILLIONS of immigrants, coming from Central Asia, the Caucasus, Africa and China. Do some reading, times have changed. It is enough to go to Warszawa, Kraków or Poznañ, and you will see many Vietnamese, African and Arab students, obviously something about Poland must have been attractive to them. In fact, I personally knew four Albanians that studied in Warsaw University.
How many immigrants go to Albania for a better life?
BTW. The Al-Fayed thing provided a good laugh, thanks for that.
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(Peter Sudyka, 18 August 2009 08:54)
The moment the EU felt threatened by the rising number of immigrants they'd shut the doors down immediately. Did you think they allowed Poles in to do YOU a favour or is it because they needed you? Same goes for other nationalities. As Jackie Mason said once (or twice) just go into any kitchen and there you'll find the illegal immigrants. If these ‘threatened’ countries really wanted to find and expel them they’d do it in a month. They need a work force and Kosova has got plenty. Kosova can not send old people to work abroad but luckily they don’t have to. On the other hand the Poles have one child each and that child gets exported to the UK to become a cherry picker. Why have three, one who could work and two to study when you could just have one you could kick out of the country instead. Admirable parenting!
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All u need is spark in Balkans."kosova' will last as long as Americans can afford it and NATO can stay as one.Greece,FYROM,Serbia,Crna Gora all have a stake in this.Will NATO bomb Serbia when Albanians try and take Presevo and end up losing Kosovo? Russia is building the gas pipeline and will have vested interest in the region. Bondsteel is there for the AMBO "or whatever" pipeline but if Russia finishes first Bondsteel will lose its purpose that is not to say they will leave.Regionally Albanian mini-imperialism could end up with them losing everything.Germany is still Serbia's oldest and 2nd most danerous enemy after US Russia would have to work diplomatic relations with them.
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I read in this article some comments made by a Pole about Albanians breeding too much and the hence the risk of outnumbering the Poles. There should be a reason why there are far more Poles than Albanians (probably 100 million vs 6 million). The question is: Who breeded more?
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