"Kosovo's European future uncertain"

Well who thought anything else? Kosovo in Europe is as likely as hell freezing over.
Kosovo today is intolerant, racist, corrupt and one of the most dangerous territories on earth. Eulex personell terrorised and robbed on a daily basis. Not to mention all the drugs that pass through the territory. It's so called government is run by former terrorists and jihad warriors. Kosovo is going to be a Turkey case.

Kosovo is a province of Serbia and not a country.

All people residing in Kosovo are Serbian Citizens, no matter what ethnicity they may be from.

Therefore,

KOSOVO IS SERBIAN

Pejoni - do You read article - no chance to EU integration for "independent" Kosovo ;)

“Currently, the opinion that Kosovo is receiving different treatment from the other countries in the region, particularly Serbia, is becoming increasingly popular. The impression is that it’s being granted accelerated integration, while Kosovo is being blocked because of the position of the five member-states and cannot move forward,“ she said.

This view can only strengthen as time goes on. Pseudo-state will eventually have to re-enter negotiations with Serbia-proper for without them, limbo in Kosovo will only deepen - & looks like some at least have begun to acknowledge the consequences even if they do not as yet acknowledge the solution.

A positive result at the ICJ for Serbia will speed this process for it will strip the UDI of any legitimacy whatsoever, wheras a negative one can only accentuate it as all 5 of those EU member-states are hardly likely to drop their opposition.

So let us all hope for a positive outcome eh ;)

These statements are particularly alarming since the USIP is certainly no critic of Kosovo's so-called independence.

But all this theorizing does nothing to address the realities on the ground.

1. Kosovo is a parastate through and through. It's sovereignty is propped up by at least two, if not three, international institutions. Recent developments by EULEX in claiming administrative and security oversight of Kosovo's alleged independent institutions have only compounded the theory what everyone acknowledges behind closed doors: Kosovo is at best a parastate or a protectorate.

2. Kosovo has no future getting into the EU without riding the coat-tails of Serbia. Even if Serbia agrees not to "interfere", there's this little thing of 5 member states vetoing its entry. Some state might be paid/coerced to look the other way, but Slovakia and Cyprus will not be persuaded.

3. Unless some unforeseen cataclysmic event occurs that places the LDP in complete power in Belgrade, no Serb official will acquiesce to EU ascension if it means formally letting go of Kosovo. A stalemate in which Serbia's ascension is halted will ensue, and lots of EU states are eager to bring Serbia in. Plus, enough statements have already been made that Serbia does not have to "recognize" Kosovo to get into the EU since 5 EU states officially do not recognize (and I suspect a number of other EU states, if given the chance, WOULDN'T recognize).

4. Contrary to opinions a year ago, regardless of Kosovo's status, Serbia is deepening its hold in the pockets it controls. MUP-EULEX agreements have coordinated security and customs, parallel instituions continue to exist and grow, and now 3 more Serb municipalities have been created, effectively making Gracanica a potential Mitrovica just 5 km outside Pristina. Even at this point more recognitions come in, a bi-zonal protectorate is looking more and more likely.

Kosovo's EU future is either to enter the EU as a part of Serbia, or the EU has to make Kosovo a veritable international protectorate where EULEX become de facto and de jure government like the Bosnia High Representative. Additional recognitions at this point will mean absolutely nothing.

And so it should be!
Finally the voices of reason are comming out...but that is not enough. You cannot steal somebody's land and than think everything is gonna be ship shape just because you say so.
Serbia will NEVER recognise Kosovo no matter who is in Government, people just wont have it. So we finally come to the conclusion that we have to talk, but openly and directly, not through intermediares. That is the only possible way out of this mess whether Albanians like it or not. Believe me, you dont wont to have a very pissed off neighbour all the time breathing on your neck, waiting for your false move to get you down. If anything you should know that we never forget so dont live in hope that we will just move on. We have to solve this problem and put a long lasting border that wont change in the next 10 years. That is the only prospect for a lasting peace and possible eventual recontiliation between our two nations.

International factor has to start working more seriously too.
(Olf, 18 September 2009 13:33)

I thought you were one of them, at least you are pretending it, so get to work...

There is now not a single day passing unless some more clarity appears on the behind of the scene deals that were made at the expense of Kosovo.
Might be sad, however I'm still woundering how the k-a could believe in the fary tale made in US...
You just need to read the daily newspapers around the world to find out where the wind is blowing!
There is no center of the world for the US, there is only a center of interest that can move so quickly, so stop dreaming but work for your future!

Mike

Your comments are allways realistic and truthfull. Like you say: Kosovo will never become a country. The loosers in all this mess are the Albanians and Eulex, who accepted the mission. Let the Europeans try and taim the Albanians. Soon they will realize, if they haven't all ready, that Serbia wasn't so wrong after all.

Tirana

You should take a look at what is being said from your allies about Kosovos chances of joining EU. Serbia does have an impact on Kosovo because according to inernational law and history Kosovo is Serbian territory inhabited by a majority Albanian population. Serbia is a major player in the Balkans. However, we know that when all comes around Serbia is pretty insignificant. Except when it comes to sports where we are compeating with the worlds best. Go Serbia!

I love how Serbian media today consider Kosovo Independent from Serbia in every aspect. None is mention Kosovo as part of Serbia or that resolution, what was it called again, oh yes 1244. That alone is great success.

Now what goes for becoming a EU member, well I have grown up in a EU member state and it's not all heaven, sure its OK but you'll end up paying more so African countries can multiply their starving population then get back for what you worked.

Kosovo have plenty of sons and daughters around EU who rather spend their money in Kosovo then in Turkey, Bulgaria or Greece as others tend to do. This my friend is why Kosovo can't and won't collapse as predicted by Serbian Government, she has a strong diaspora, well stronger then Serbia's that for sure.

Yes, Mike - and Serbia's control over Northern part of Kosovo is economically and logistically complete. It is complete to a such high degree, that for instance the Capital One bank did "block" my credit card to be used in Albanian-controlled part of the province, but not in Serbian-controlled.

Was a nasty surprise: I could buy the infamous Kosovo-gasoline in Leposavic area, but next day the same amount was not approved in Vushtrri. I had to use cash and after passing the not-so-virtual line again went to the same gas station in Serbian part of Kosovo. There - again - the charge was approved. I wanted to tank full because the gas is cheaper there than in Serbia or Hungary. And indeed, it lasted till BP.

That happened Wednesday and yesterday, so it's as fresh as possible.

To add to the insult, the credit card company (Capital One) left an e-mail message to my wife that I need to call their 800 number(!!!) to verify recent activities they suspect are fraudlent.

If anyone knows, how "easy' is to call an 800 number from even Germany can wonder, how they did think I will call it from Vushtrri. Luckily, there is SkyPe and it can be done and costs nothing.

Regardless of this inconvenience I can only suggest to use either Capital One or Charles Schwab cards in the area because these cards tend to have low APR-s (who does care) and have no "foreign exchange fee" which can be between 2% and 4%. And buying a lot of groceries this fee is substantial amount if you are an expat.

Back to the topic: there is not even the "UNMIK" sign over the gate #1, there is no sign at all - only people from Mitrovica Police Unit and sometimes EULEX watching them from the distance. Going "there" I did not see any EULEX presence, going back I did see a car in the background with EULEX people doing absolutely nothing inside of it.

And Serbian controls are much more strict than Albanian ones - perhaps because of "white Schengen" looming.

Serbia is no where near getting into EU herself and you guys are already talking about blocking Kosova's entry. Come on now, get real.
(Tirana, 18 September 2009 20:19)
--
On the contrary, if Serbia was to ever join the EU then Kosovo, as our province, automatically joins. Those citizens that have a Serbian passport, ethnic Albanians included, will all have access to the EU and become the millionaires they all dream of being.

But don't expect Serbia to support Kosovo joining again under some imaginary status. George Bush is history and so are his delusional ideas.

Girls, guys,

Be realistic. EU will never allow a state to enter which is no UN member. Kosovo isn't a state. It is a province.

The 5 countries that do take international law serious will block Kosovo anyway!

Economically Kosovo is a third world country (again it is a province, not a state).

So stop dreaming about EU!

“For Kosovo to successfully integrate into the EU, at least four governance structures need to be addressed, because Brussels doesn’t accept members that need EULEX, UNMIK, parallel institutions and the International Civil Office,“ said Serwer.

Amen Mr. Serwer.

Out of four , one is on its last leg of journey out of Kosova. They only exist in northern mitro but on paper only. As for the rest, Kosovars have to role up its sleeves and work hard to send the other three home ASAP.

As far as I know even after the Lisbon treaty all members have to say OK to a new member!

That will not happen with Kosovo. But it will not happen with Serbia the coming years I am afraid.

Think the EU doesn't want new members the coming years.

But as long as Kosovo independence is illegal Kosovo will NEVER join EU!

Good we have international law!

And thanks to Spain and ohters!
Again, I am not Serb, not Albanian. Just a human being!

I am afraid that Mr Petersen will be deluded.

I align with Mr Serwer.

Kosova accepted EULEX and asked nothing politically worth from EU in exchange.

we don’t know what we can get in exchange for giving up a huge part of our sovereignty to EU. Kosova didn’t even ask for at least a road map: OK I accept EULEX but after 2 years when we assesses the progress I will get this or that; in 4 years this or that etc.

Petersen is quite right. Being practically administrated by EU the rationale says that Kosova should have a quicker progress towards EU than any other country of western Balkans. But then Mr Petersen please ask your friends in Brussels why Kosova is left out form the visa liberalisation project?? Is Brussels mistrustful of her own mission EULEX which is effective ruler of Kosova??

Pedy Ashdown et al. just signed a petition (punctually ignored by b92) asking from EU to include ALL countries of western Balkans in visa liberalisation and the petition says: the progress in reforms of Serbia is essentially the same as the one of Bosnia and that the decision to grant visa liberalisation to Serbia but not to other countries is politically motivated NOT TECHNICALY.

I thought EULEX would be a guarantor to Brussels: we have accesses and decision power to all issues in Kosova including police. So no worries about visa-free regime with Kosova! Well it seems I am wrong and am afraid so are you Mr Petersen.

Thus, Serwer is right I reckon. What we see is that a nation that is still protecting Mladic (we don’t know where he is) while he was going even to a weddings (and let’s not talk about the cultural misery of those events) with hundreds of people present; staying in military barracks when minister of defence was the “democrat” Tadic- gets the visa liberalisations, while their victims DON’T.

Kosova is getting a lot of fume in her eyes and no steak at all. Face it all and first of all you people in Kosova.

"blah, blah, blah....
You know it and we know it. It is absurd for a nation to be divided in so many parts. Kosova path to EU is together with Albania. Sorry if that ticks you off, but unfortunately some wrong-doings of the 1913 have to be set straight. Peace out!"
(Tirana, 19 September 2009 00:50)

This entire dissertation was based on wishful thinking and I did not see any factual information in it. This is a common theme with some posters here. While incorrect, this post does make for amusing reading though.

Only if Kosovo recognizes its rightful place in Serbia. OTherwise it will remain a pariah.

What the EU is saying is basically, maybe in your backyard Serbia- an independant Kosovo...but never in ours. Can't blame them either...the place is a madhouse of clan rule, backward and no modern vision.

Correct. What now?
Only statements with no solutions.
Kosovo institutions have to work harder to earn EU Intergations or stay where they are. In any case, patiance of population is running thin, what means the end is coming very soon.
Serbia, after the ICJ 50-50 ruling, has to stop impeding in Kosovo matter otherwise they stay where they are too.
International factor has to start working more seriously too.

Despite the current progress or the lack of in Kosova, I wonder what makes some (majority) of the Serb commentators believe that Serbia indeed has enough impact to keep Kosova in limbo?

I think it is because of the delusion that many nationalist Serbs have about their country, as they imagine it to be this great power.
All fighting aside, you have to understand that Kosova is already much better than pre-1999 and that Kosova can very well move forward regardless of your futile attempts to block it's integration into international structures. I'm sorry you just don't have that kind of impact on international politics. Serbia is no where near getting into EU herself and you guys are already talking about blocking Kosova's entry. Come on now, get real.

LOL, ok amer, tell us the paragrapph from lisbon treaty where vetoing of new members will be abandoned.

spain (and others) made a clear as water message: don´t even think about it! nato and eu got the message, albo-camp obviously still hasn´t ....

don´t worry, you - as apart of serbia - will be part of the eu, if they make the race.

the liberation of kosmet will happen 1 day after eu-membership or finished south-stream.

you see, the only "unsecure" outcome is the winner of the horse race ...

constructivness of usa during liberation of kosmet will have a dirct impact on the economic-first-aid packages from moscow and beyjing as we´ve seen on the topic of "missile shild".

the golden rule buddy, the guys with all the gold make all the rules ...

everytime I turn on my computer there is someone critisizing Kosovo,saying in effect that they are neanderthals.Poor albanians,youre finally starting to get the picture,that you were used to do US dirty work just like mudjahadeen against Russia in the 80's.Next youll be labelled terrorists again and be the enemy.SUCKERS.God bless KOSMET.

A positive result at the ICJ for Serbia will speed this process for it will strip the UDI of any legitimacy whatsoever, wheras a negative one can only accentuate it as all 5 of those EU member-states are hardly likely to drop their opposition.
--
Funny comment. So no matter how ICJ rules Serbia wins and Kosova loses, eh? So far everyone has predicted a "both sides can declare a win" scenario, meaning Serbia must wake up and recognize the reality on the ground as they say. Just ask the French, German and UK ambassadors in Kosova.


Unless EU solves this, EULEX will be asked to leave after its mandate expires in a year. It's very simple, no benefits for the people so why should you tell us what to do. EULEX will not stay there if people don't want them.

EU cannot afford to fail in Kosova of course, see what EULEX was designed to so and no one wants a country with no EU hope in the middle of Europe. It's not in EU's best interest.



Anyway, how will Serbia solve their "neighborly relations" when 22/27 recognize Kosova as a neighbor and the EC passed a resolution to solve all territorial issues before EU candidacy. Serbia's EU future is uncertain...or like MN President said, Serbia is delaying everyone. Look what Holland is doing over Mladic, now you expect 22 nations to let Jeremic to yell "Kosovo je Serbja" in every EU meeting when they have ambassadors in Kosova?

Much ado about nothing. Why?
1. You are assuming that 5 states will always not recognize Kosova
2. That Serbia will enter EU without recognizing. Try waiting as all your neighbors join (and then be able to block you). 22 our of 27 EU nations recognize us.
(aRTA, 18 September 2009 18:35)

Russia said that they will not recognise Kosovo unless Serbia does first but Cyprus went a step further and said that even if Serbia does recognise Kosovo they will not.

Where does it say that Serbia has to recognise Kosovo in order to enter EU. Now please be courteous and provide us with some sort of evidence of that.
They have always said that Serbia has to do one more step and that is to get Ratko Mladic. Nothing about Kosovo here.

Too many "experts" argue that Kosova has no chance of getting into EU but only as, and I quote: "Kosovo has no future getting into the EU without riding the coat-tails of Serbia."

The same "experts" argue that Serbia would never swap it's EU entry if it means to relinquish its sovereignty that presumably still has over K. Recognizing or not Kosova, doesn't really changes the life of the average Serb, although these "experts" would argue differently by saying that serbs are a different species of humans, which can actually live by slurping chunks of “patriotism” for breakfast. The only way the life of an average Serb would be affected is if Serbia gets into EU by recognizing Kosova. But we are all made aware by the above mentioned “experts”, that this can never happened.

My question, and I don’t claim to be an “expert” is: Why would you think that Kosova would give up its sovereignty just so it can piggy back Serbia on its pathetic journey into EU. If Serbia would never give up its fake sovereignty over EU, why would someone expect K-Albanians to give up their sovereignty for EU. Is it written somewhere in stone that Serbs love Kosova more than Albanians? Is this even something to argue about, given the present condition of demographics in the new country? Serbs don’t have any sovereignty over Kosova, except in some papers in their constitution. Albanian sovereignty over Kosova is tied directly to their security and their future which makes it practically impossible to give it up since will jeopardize their day to day living in a drastic manner. What good can a K-Albanian see by returning under Serbia’s rule? Where is really the logic?

Kosova as a state is still weak but nevertheless it’s stronger than, let’s say Somalia or Afghanistan both founding members of UN. There has been a continuous positive trend in every aspect of life in Kosova. Despite the problems, there is a night and day difference with a decade ago. The usual rumbling about internal problems of Kosova and Serbian inflicted linkage with its sovereignty is completely unrealistic. Is there any proposal for Aghanistan or Somalia to lose their sovereignty because of their crime rates?

Furthermore Serbia will never get into EU because it will never get Mladic. I have a feeling that when Mladic is pronounced dead (when his natural path ends), Serbia will have to make a lot of concessions for refusing to deliver a war criminal. One of those concessions would be the recognition. As per Serbia having and deepening role in Kosova’s affair, it could be argued that the only role Serbia can have is encroaching the border points between two countries by stimulating some ultra-nationalists into burning some customs points. The recent events with electricity, proved that Serbia cannot and will not play any role in improving the lives of Serbs in Kosova. On the contrary, indirectly by nurturing the hostility against the sovereign institutions of Kosova, Serb minority in Kosova will only loose power, unless starts cooperation with K-Government.

'Where does it say that Serbia has to recognise Kosovo in order to enter EU. Now please be courteous and provide us with some sort of evidence of that.'

The need for good-neighborly relations with bordering countries has been a membership requirement from the beginning, I believe. How can Serbia claim to have good relations with a country it refuses to recognize and whose entry into international organizations it attempts to block?
(Amer, 19 September 2009 20:53)

Ah, but Serbia does have good relations with neighbouring countries. Kosovo is NOT a country so Serbia does not have to treat it as one.
Not recognising a breakaway region as a country is NOT in violation of EU standards. If it was then five EU countries would be expelled. Actually everyone has already said that recognition of Kosovo is not a condition so I belive that you are very wrong.

Much ado about nothing. Why?
1. You are assuming that 5 states will always not recognize Kosova
2. That Serbia will enter EU without recognizing. Try waiting as all your neighbors join (and then be able to block you). 22 our of 27 EU nations recognize us.

The comments in the article take a surprisingly static view of the situation in view of all the potential changes coming up.

- The Lisbon Treaty vote could result in a shift from unanimity to majority voting within the EU;

- the European Commission is issuing a feasibility study, a first step toward a Stabilization and Association Agreement, in about a month. It seems highly unlikely that it is going to report that all of the EU's efforts have been totally in vain, that the situation is hopeless.

- and the ICJ verdict could theoretically go in any direction, but telling a third or more of the world's countries (the ones that fund the UN and the ICJ) that they have misinterpreted international law really seems unlikely.

- the recent protests in Kosovo should help to focus EU attention on finally resolving the problem rather than simply contenting itself with "ensuring stability."

The situation could be radically different a year from now.

Eh, where does it say in Lisbon that the recognition of states comes under QMV?

The closest claim to this is under "Initiatives of the High Representative for Foreign Affairs" which despite Lisbon is still "QMV following unanimous request".
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extension_to_qualified_majority_voting_under_the_Treaty_of_Lisbon

Let's see, that means UNANIMOUS request (I put the clue in capital letters) first, and then QMV.

The delusion continues...

'Let's see, that means UNANIMOUS request (I put the clue in capital letters) first, and then QMV. '

Right, but this is a way of allowing a necessary step - membership for Kosovo - to be taken while at the same time not forcing 5 states to vote directly against Serbia, rather like the option of abstaining in the Security Council.

Lastly, Kosova and Albania are integrating day by day, and you all know it, but try your best not to even mention it.
(Tirana, 19 September 2009 00:50)

Why don't we set up a meeting one day, I will take you to some parts of Kosovo (because I can do it - but not you alone) and you will see with your eyes how "tight" is the integration between, say, Leposavic and Tirana.

arta:
> Funny comment. So no matter how ICJ rules Serbia wins and Kosova loses, eh?

Wrong again 'arta'. Or is it 'aRTA'? Getting hoarse? ;)

Was actually commenting on the view held by some K-albanians that 'Kosovo is being blocked because of the position of the five member states' against the K-albanian UDI resulting in Kosovo's inability to 'move forward'.

And actually said that this view will strengthen over time.

And actually said that over time, K-albanians will eventually realise that the only possible solution to the consequences of their unilateral declaration of independence will be to go back to the negotiating table with the serbs & hash out an outcome that is acceptable to BOTH sides.

And my reference to the ICJ case was made in that context.

So if Serbia wins it's case, then that process of realisation can only accelerate.

But if Serbia loses, intransigence of K-albanians will be re-inforced - but this will not change the opposition of ALL 5 EU states - leaving Kosovo in an even more prolonged state of limbo.

Isn't about Serbia 'winning', but Kosovo losing - & not the ICJ case, but losing the ability to 'move forward.

And this is the view of some K-albanians.. a view that can only increase over time.

> Unless EU solves this, EULEX will be asked to leave after its mandate expires in a year .. EULEX will not stay there if people don't want them.

Now this really is funny.


miri:
> My question, and I don’t claim to be an “expert” is: Why would you think that Kosova would give up its sovereignty just so it can piggy back Serbia on its pathetic journey into EU.

Sovereignty?

And this even funnier ;)

Once again.. story here is about the growing concern of K-albanians over their future status. You're wasting your time talking to us. Should be talking to them instead.

due to a lack of time, I cannot follow the flow of information here and read each and every article... but

it is really refreshing to get a fresh dose of k-albanian wishful thinking again. thanks for making me smile!

the best one was the mentioning of the K-albanians "working hard" to send the foreign occupiers home " ASAP ".

needless to say what I think of our dear k-albanian friends, who post such an overdose of "wishful thinking"...

Just ask France, Uk, Germany...etc. that have embassies in Kosova and that need to give Serbia the OK. Ask them if Kosova is a country or a Serbian province
(aRTA, 20 September 2009 17:21)

No need to ask them. It is not up to them. Why don't you ask the UN and you will get the same answer as mine. Now their answer matters more than Germany's or any other country trying to circumvent UN.

Well said Tirana! The dogs can continue to bark...

ok,we are a limbo state(at least,it is still better than being a serbian territory!) ans then,what else?
we will have to wait for viza? ok,we can do that to,
we will wait for eu,ok we cn do that to.. We are very patient when our interests are in play!
And after this being said,what else?
Albanians are albanians,and despite serbia ,turkey ,greeks and bulgarians etc tried for centuries to turn them serbian or turk or greek or bulgars,they did not succeed!So the problem is still there,isn't it?
It will just help albanians ,and just help us in looking to plan B!
europe is only a part of the world!

The comments in the article take a surprisingly static view of the situation in view of all the potential changes coming up.

- The Lisbon Treaty vote could result in a shift from unanimity to majority voting within the EU;

- the European Commission is issuing a feasibility study, a first step toward a Stabilization and Association Agreement, in about a month. It seems highly unlikely that it is going to report that all of the EU's efforts have been totally in vain, that the situation is hopeless.

- and the ICJ verdict could theoretically go in any direction, but telling a third or more of the world's countries (the ones that fund the UN and the ICJ) that they have misinterpreted international law really seems unlikely.

- the recent protests in Kosovo may help to focus EU attention on finally resolving the problem rather than simply contenting itself with "ensuring stability."

Boys and girls (Serbs I mean),

1) You have to put it through your thick head that there is no incentive in the world that would make the Albanians in Kosova re-join Serbia again.

2) Some of you are eager to trash Kosova and categorize it as 3rd World country. Just today there was an article in the news about Serbia having the lowest incomes in the Balkans, about Serbia about to borrow money from WB. Granted Kosova is probably in a worse shape, but Serbia is in no position to call Kosova or any other Balkan countries 3rd World countries. Stop it!

3) I get this feeling that you children have a sense of righteousness and that EU favors you. This is very absurd. Remember the West is the one who bombed your A$$ in 99'. There was a lot of diplomacy involved mainly because you were backed by one of Europe's biggest nuisances - your birthplace, Russia. Because of that, the current superpowers have a lot of ego and they won't even let you think of ever getting on cm2 of Kosova.

4) For any of you lost souls and victims of propaganda, don't even attempt to bring up historical sources as justification for Kosova being yours. It would be too embarrassing for you. Don't you think Vuk would have used it by now????

Lastly, Kosova and Albania are integrating day by day, and you all know it, but try your best not to even mention it.

You know it and we know it. It is absurd for a nation to be divided in so many parts. Kosova path to EU is together with Albania. Sorry if that ticks you off, but unfortunately some wrong-doings of the 1913 have to be set straight. Peace out!

'everytime I turn on my computer there is someone critisizing Kosovo,saying in effect that they are neanderthals.'

On the other hand, I usually find references to Kosova as an entirely normal country, with the normal range interests (new schools and roads, farmers receiving milking machines to improve milk quality and work efficiency, plans for local elections, columnists berating the government no matter what it does ...).

You can find support for just about any point of view on the web - and the most commonly found ones are not necessarily the best. Looking at sites from both sides of an issue helps in maintaining a sense of proportion, although that clearly isn't as important as you'd hope as reinforcing previously held beliefs.

'Where does it say that Serbia has to recognise Kosovo in order to enter EU. Now please be courteous and provide us with some sort of evidence of that.'

The need for good-neighborly relations with bordering countries has been a membership requirement from the beginning, I believe. How can Serbia claim to have good relations with a country it refuses to recognize and whose entry into international organizations it attempts to block?

'Ah, but Serbia does have good relations with neighbouring countries. Kosovo is NOT a country so Serbia does not have to treat it as one. '

How then is Serbia going to define its southern border? In such a way, I mean, that other countries will accept its definition? In the newly signed police protocol they've stopped referring to an "administrative line" between Serbia and Kosovo - step by step, Serbia's claims to the area are being weakened.

"Ah, but Serbia does have good relations with neighbouring countries. Kosovo is NOT a country so Serbia does not have to treat it as one."

Just ask France, Uk, Germany...etc. that have embassies in Kosova and that need to give Serbia the OK. Ask them if Kosova is a country or a Serbian province

'But if Serbia loses [at the ICJ], intransigence of K-albanians will be reinforced - but this will not change the opposition of ALL 5 EU states - leaving Kosovo in an even more prolonged state of limbo. '

Mmmm, I'm not so sure about that. The FM's of Spain and Kosovo have said that if the ICJ supports Kosovo, then they'll review their decision not to recognize its independence.

These were short items at some English-language site, and I was never able to track down an official statement in either case - both sounded like a hurried response to a journalist's question that they didn't want to go on the record with. So, this is only an unsupported assertion, but then, the statement that these countries' positions won't change is no more. Serbia may end up regretting its decision to go to the ICJ.

Once more with feeling:

""QMV following unanimous request".

That means, in the following order:

1: Unanimous request, i.e. the agreement of ALL member states representatives

2: IF it is unanimous, THEN QMV.

There is NOTHING in this text that means, implies or could otherwise be construed as meaning, recognition by the EU whilst EU member states do not recognize.

And that is all without even asking the question as to whether an EU FM even has the right to propose recognition.

This other 'interpretation' is simply grasping at invisible straws.

Amer:
Is a basic difference between making an 'unsupported allegation' & one based on common sense.

May very well be the case that one or even two of the five MIGHT change their view on the illegality of the K-albanian UDI assuming & IF the the ICJ rules in favour of independence.

Stretches credibility to breaking point that ALL 5 will - which is the point I was making.

Still, talking in terms of absolutes is not to be recommended so will make the following amendment to my previous comment..

"But if Serbia loses, intransigence of K-albanians will be re-inforced - but this will 'very, very, very, very probably' not change the opposition of ALL 5 EU states - leaving Kosovo in an even more prolonged state of limbo. "

As for Serbia's decision to go before the ICJ, believe it was the right thing to do, whichever way the verdict falls.

As long as Kosovo is just a province it can only enter EU as part of Serbia.

If both sides agree, BOTH SIDES!, of course Kosovo can become independent.

Yes, like Slovakia.

Please stop wasting Western money. Thank you!

Kosovo is a province of Serbia and not a country.

All people residing in Kosovo are Serbian Citizens, no matter what ethnicity they may be from.

Therefore,

KOSOVO IS SERBIAN
(Another Canadian Serb, 18 September 2009 14:29)

I'm not and neither is Jason. We reside in Kosovo.

No need to ask them. It is not up to them. Why don't you ask the UN and you will get the same answer as mine. Now their answer matters more than Germany's or any other country trying to circumvent UN.
(Peggy, 21 September 2009 07:16)

Why? UN membership does not mean statehood, only UN membership.

Correct. What now?
Only statements with no solutions.
Kosovo institutions have to work harder to earn EU Intergations or stay where they are. In any case, patiance of population is running thin, what means the end is coming very soon.
Serbia, after the ICJ 50-50 ruling, has to stop impeding in Kosovo matter otherwise they stay where they are too.
International factor has to start working more seriously too.

I love how Serbian media today consider Kosovo Independent from Serbia in every aspect. None is mention Kosovo as part of Serbia or that resolution, what was it called again, oh yes 1244. That alone is great success.

Now what goes for becoming a EU member, well I have grown up in a EU member state and it's not all heaven, sure its OK but you'll end up paying more so African countries can multiply their starving population then get back for what you worked.

Kosovo have plenty of sons and daughters around EU who rather spend their money in Kosovo then in Turkey, Bulgaria or Greece as others tend to do. This my friend is why Kosovo can't and won't collapse as predicted by Serbian Government, she has a strong diaspora, well stronger then Serbia's that for sure.

“For Kosovo to successfully integrate into the EU, at least four governance structures need to be addressed, because Brussels doesn’t accept members that need EULEX, UNMIK, parallel institutions and the International Civil Office,“ said Serwer.

Amen Mr. Serwer.

Out of four , one is on its last leg of journey out of Kosova. They only exist in northern mitro but on paper only. As for the rest, Kosovars have to role up its sleeves and work hard to send the other three home ASAP.

I am afraid that Mr Petersen will be deluded.

I align with Mr Serwer.

Kosova accepted EULEX and asked nothing politically worth from EU in exchange.

we don’t know what we can get in exchange for giving up a huge part of our sovereignty to EU. Kosova didn’t even ask for at least a road map: OK I accept EULEX but after 2 years when we assesses the progress I will get this or that; in 4 years this or that etc.

Petersen is quite right. Being practically administrated by EU the rationale says that Kosova should have a quicker progress towards EU than any other country of western Balkans. But then Mr Petersen please ask your friends in Brussels why Kosova is left out form the visa liberalisation project?? Is Brussels mistrustful of her own mission EULEX which is effective ruler of Kosova??

Pedy Ashdown et al. just signed a petition (punctually ignored by b92) asking from EU to include ALL countries of western Balkans in visa liberalisation and the petition says: the progress in reforms of Serbia is essentially the same as the one of Bosnia and that the decision to grant visa liberalisation to Serbia but not to other countries is politically motivated NOT TECHNICALY.

I thought EULEX would be a guarantor to Brussels: we have accesses and decision power to all issues in Kosova including police. So no worries about visa-free regime with Kosova! Well it seems I am wrong and am afraid so are you Mr Petersen.

Thus, Serwer is right I reckon. What we see is that a nation that is still protecting Mladic (we don’t know where he is) while he was going even to a weddings (and let’s not talk about the cultural misery of those events) with hundreds of people present; staying in military barracks when minister of defence was the “democrat” Tadic- gets the visa liberalisations, while their victims DON’T.

Kosova is getting a lot of fume in her eyes and no steak at all. Face it all and first of all you people in Kosova.

Despite the current progress or the lack of in Kosova, I wonder what makes some (majority) of the Serb commentators believe that Serbia indeed has enough impact to keep Kosova in limbo?

I think it is because of the delusion that many nationalist Serbs have about their country, as they imagine it to be this great power.
All fighting aside, you have to understand that Kosova is already much better than pre-1999 and that Kosova can very well move forward regardless of your futile attempts to block it's integration into international structures. I'm sorry you just don't have that kind of impact on international politics. Serbia is no where near getting into EU herself and you guys are already talking about blocking Kosova's entry. Come on now, get real.

Too many "experts" argue that Kosova has no chance of getting into EU but only as, and I quote: "Kosovo has no future getting into the EU without riding the coat-tails of Serbia."

The same "experts" argue that Serbia would never swap it's EU entry if it means to relinquish its sovereignty that presumably still has over K. Recognizing or not Kosova, doesn't really changes the life of the average Serb, although these "experts" would argue differently by saying that serbs are a different species of humans, which can actually live by slurping chunks of “patriotism” for breakfast. The only way the life of an average Serb would be affected is if Serbia gets into EU by recognizing Kosova. But we are all made aware by the above mentioned “experts”, that this can never happened.

My question, and I don’t claim to be an “expert” is: Why would you think that Kosova would give up its sovereignty just so it can piggy back Serbia on its pathetic journey into EU. If Serbia would never give up its fake sovereignty over EU, why would someone expect K-Albanians to give up their sovereignty for EU. Is it written somewhere in stone that Serbs love Kosova more than Albanians? Is this even something to argue about, given the present condition of demographics in the new country? Serbs don’t have any sovereignty over Kosova, except in some papers in their constitution. Albanian sovereignty over Kosova is tied directly to their security and their future which makes it practically impossible to give it up since will jeopardize their day to day living in a drastic manner. What good can a K-Albanian see by returning under Serbia’s rule? Where is really the logic?

Kosova as a state is still weak but nevertheless it’s stronger than, let’s say Somalia or Afghanistan both founding members of UN. There has been a continuous positive trend in every aspect of life in Kosova. Despite the problems, there is a night and day difference with a decade ago. The usual rumbling about internal problems of Kosova and Serbian inflicted linkage with its sovereignty is completely unrealistic. Is there any proposal for Aghanistan or Somalia to lose their sovereignty because of their crime rates?

Furthermore Serbia will never get into EU because it will never get Mladic. I have a feeling that when Mladic is pronounced dead (when his natural path ends), Serbia will have to make a lot of concessions for refusing to deliver a war criminal. One of those concessions would be the recognition. As per Serbia having and deepening role in Kosova’s affair, it could be argued that the only role Serbia can have is encroaching the border points between two countries by stimulating some ultra-nationalists into burning some customs points. The recent events with electricity, proved that Serbia cannot and will not play any role in improving the lives of Serbs in Kosova. On the contrary, indirectly by nurturing the hostility against the sovereign institutions of Kosova, Serb minority in Kosova will only loose power, unless starts cooperation with K-Government.

Pejoni - do You read article - no chance to EU integration for "independent" Kosovo ;)

Well who thought anything else? Kosovo in Europe is as likely as hell freezing over.
Kosovo today is intolerant, racist, corrupt and one of the most dangerous territories on earth. Eulex personell terrorised and robbed on a daily basis. Not to mention all the drugs that pass through the territory. It's so called government is run by former terrorists and jihad warriors. Kosovo is going to be a Turkey case.

And so it should be!
Finally the voices of reason are comming out...but that is not enough. You cannot steal somebody's land and than think everything is gonna be ship shape just because you say so.
Serbia will NEVER recognise Kosovo no matter who is in Government, people just wont have it. So we finally come to the conclusion that we have to talk, but openly and directly, not through intermediares. That is the only possible way out of this mess whether Albanians like it or not. Believe me, you dont wont to have a very pissed off neighbour all the time breathing on your neck, waiting for your false move to get you down. If anything you should know that we never forget so dont live in hope that we will just move on. We have to solve this problem and put a long lasting border that wont change in the next 10 years. That is the only prospect for a lasting peace and possible eventual recontiliation between our two nations.

Kosovo is a province of Serbia and not a country.

All people residing in Kosovo are Serbian Citizens, no matter what ethnicity they may be from.

Therefore,

KOSOVO IS SERBIAN

Much ado about nothing. Why?
1. You are assuming that 5 states will always not recognize Kosova
2. That Serbia will enter EU without recognizing. Try waiting as all your neighbors join (and then be able to block you). 22 our of 27 EU nations recognize us.

A positive result at the ICJ for Serbia will speed this process for it will strip the UDI of any legitimacy whatsoever, wheras a negative one can only accentuate it as all 5 of those EU member-states are hardly likely to drop their opposition.
--
Funny comment. So no matter how ICJ rules Serbia wins and Kosova loses, eh? So far everyone has predicted a "both sides can declare a win" scenario, meaning Serbia must wake up and recognize the reality on the ground as they say. Just ask the French, German and UK ambassadors in Kosova.


Unless EU solves this, EULEX will be asked to leave after its mandate expires in a year. It's very simple, no benefits for the people so why should you tell us what to do. EULEX will not stay there if people don't want them.

EU cannot afford to fail in Kosova of course, see what EULEX was designed to so and no one wants a country with no EU hope in the middle of Europe. It's not in EU's best interest.



Anyway, how will Serbia solve their "neighborly relations" when 22/27 recognize Kosova as a neighbor and the EC passed a resolution to solve all territorial issues before EU candidacy. Serbia's EU future is uncertain...or like MN President said, Serbia is delaying everyone. Look what Holland is doing over Mladic, now you expect 22 nations to let Jeremic to yell "Kosovo je Serbja" in every EU meeting when they have ambassadors in Kosova?

Boys and girls (Serbs I mean),

1) You have to put it through your thick head that there is no incentive in the world that would make the Albanians in Kosova re-join Serbia again.

2) Some of you are eager to trash Kosova and categorize it as 3rd World country. Just today there was an article in the news about Serbia having the lowest incomes in the Balkans, about Serbia about to borrow money from WB. Granted Kosova is probably in a worse shape, but Serbia is in no position to call Kosova or any other Balkan countries 3rd World countries. Stop it!

3) I get this feeling that you children have a sense of righteousness and that EU favors you. This is very absurd. Remember the West is the one who bombed your A$$ in 99'. There was a lot of diplomacy involved mainly because you were backed by one of Europe's biggest nuisances - your birthplace, Russia. Because of that, the current superpowers have a lot of ego and they won't even let you think of ever getting on cm2 of Kosova.

4) For any of you lost souls and victims of propaganda, don't even attempt to bring up historical sources as justification for Kosova being yours. It would be too embarrassing for you. Don't you think Vuk would have used it by now????

Lastly, Kosova and Albania are integrating day by day, and you all know it, but try your best not to even mention it.

You know it and we know it. It is absurd for a nation to be divided in so many parts. Kosova path to EU is together with Albania. Sorry if that ticks you off, but unfortunately some wrong-doings of the 1913 have to be set straight. Peace out!

“Currently, the opinion that Kosovo is receiving different treatment from the other countries in the region, particularly Serbia, is becoming increasingly popular. The impression is that it’s being granted accelerated integration, while Kosovo is being blocked because of the position of the five member-states and cannot move forward,“ she said.

This view can only strengthen as time goes on. Pseudo-state will eventually have to re-enter negotiations with Serbia-proper for without them, limbo in Kosovo will only deepen - & looks like some at least have begun to acknowledge the consequences even if they do not as yet acknowledge the solution.

A positive result at the ICJ for Serbia will speed this process for it will strip the UDI of any legitimacy whatsoever, wheras a negative one can only accentuate it as all 5 of those EU member-states are hardly likely to drop their opposition.

So let us all hope for a positive outcome eh ;)

"Ah, but Serbia does have good relations with neighbouring countries. Kosovo is NOT a country so Serbia does not have to treat it as one."

Just ask France, Uk, Germany...etc. that have embassies in Kosova and that need to give Serbia the OK. Ask them if Kosova is a country or a Serbian province

Only if Kosovo recognizes its rightful place in Serbia. OTherwise it will remain a pariah.

What the EU is saying is basically, maybe in your backyard Serbia- an independant Kosovo...but never in ours. Can't blame them either...the place is a madhouse of clan rule, backward and no modern vision.

Yes, Mike - and Serbia's control over Northern part of Kosovo is economically and logistically complete. It is complete to a such high degree, that for instance the Capital One bank did "block" my credit card to be used in Albanian-controlled part of the province, but not in Serbian-controlled.

Was a nasty surprise: I could buy the infamous Kosovo-gasoline in Leposavic area, but next day the same amount was not approved in Vushtrri. I had to use cash and after passing the not-so-virtual line again went to the same gas station in Serbian part of Kosovo. There - again - the charge was approved. I wanted to tank full because the gas is cheaper there than in Serbia or Hungary. And indeed, it lasted till BP.

That happened Wednesday and yesterday, so it's as fresh as possible.

To add to the insult, the credit card company (Capital One) left an e-mail message to my wife that I need to call their 800 number(!!!) to verify recent activities they suspect are fraudlent.

If anyone knows, how "easy' is to call an 800 number from even Germany can wonder, how they did think I will call it from Vushtrri. Luckily, there is SkyPe and it can be done and costs nothing.

Regardless of this inconvenience I can only suggest to use either Capital One or Charles Schwab cards in the area because these cards tend to have low APR-s (who does care) and have no "foreign exchange fee" which can be between 2% and 4%. And buying a lot of groceries this fee is substantial amount if you are an expat.

Back to the topic: there is not even the "UNMIK" sign over the gate #1, there is no sign at all - only people from Mitrovica Police Unit and sometimes EULEX watching them from the distance. Going "there" I did not see any EULEX presence, going back I did see a car in the background with EULEX people doing absolutely nothing inside of it.

And Serbian controls are much more strict than Albanian ones - perhaps because of "white Schengen" looming.

The comments in the article take a surprisingly static view of the situation in view of all the potential changes coming up.

- The Lisbon Treaty vote could result in a shift from unanimity to majority voting within the EU;

- the European Commission is issuing a feasibility study, a first step toward a Stabilization and Association Agreement, in about a month. It seems highly unlikely that it is going to report that all of the EU's efforts have been totally in vain, that the situation is hopeless.

- and the ICJ verdict could theoretically go in any direction, but telling a third or more of the world's countries (the ones that fund the UN and the ICJ) that they have misinterpreted international law really seems unlikely.

- the recent protests in Kosovo may help to focus EU attention on finally resolving the problem rather than simply contenting itself with "ensuring stability."

These statements are particularly alarming since the USIP is certainly no critic of Kosovo's so-called independence.

But all this theorizing does nothing to address the realities on the ground.

1. Kosovo is a parastate through and through. It's sovereignty is propped up by at least two, if not three, international institutions. Recent developments by EULEX in claiming administrative and security oversight of Kosovo's alleged independent institutions have only compounded the theory what everyone acknowledges behind closed doors: Kosovo is at best a parastate or a protectorate.

2. Kosovo has no future getting into the EU without riding the coat-tails of Serbia. Even if Serbia agrees not to "interfere", there's this little thing of 5 member states vetoing its entry. Some state might be paid/coerced to look the other way, but Slovakia and Cyprus will not be persuaded.

3. Unless some unforeseen cataclysmic event occurs that places the LDP in complete power in Belgrade, no Serb official will acquiesce to EU ascension if it means formally letting go of Kosovo. A stalemate in which Serbia's ascension is halted will ensue, and lots of EU states are eager to bring Serbia in. Plus, enough statements have already been made that Serbia does not have to "recognize" Kosovo to get into the EU since 5 EU states officially do not recognize (and I suspect a number of other EU states, if given the chance, WOULDN'T recognize).

4. Contrary to opinions a year ago, regardless of Kosovo's status, Serbia is deepening its hold in the pockets it controls. MUP-EULEX agreements have coordinated security and customs, parallel instituions continue to exist and grow, and now 3 more Serb municipalities have been created, effectively making Gracanica a potential Mitrovica just 5 km outside Pristina. Even at this point more recognitions come in, a bi-zonal protectorate is looking more and more likely.

Kosovo's EU future is either to enter the EU as a part of Serbia, or the EU has to make Kosovo a veritable international protectorate where EULEX become de facto and de jure government like the Bosnia High Representative. Additional recognitions at this point will mean absolutely nothing.

Mike

Your comments are allways realistic and truthfull. Like you say: Kosovo will never become a country. The loosers in all this mess are the Albanians and Eulex, who accepted the mission. Let the Europeans try and taim the Albanians. Soon they will realize, if they haven't all ready, that Serbia wasn't so wrong after all.

Serbia is no where near getting into EU herself and you guys are already talking about blocking Kosova's entry. Come on now, get real.
(Tirana, 18 September 2009 20:19)
--
On the contrary, if Serbia was to ever join the EU then Kosovo, as our province, automatically joins. Those citizens that have a Serbian passport, ethnic Albanians included, will all have access to the EU and become the millionaires they all dream of being.

But don't expect Serbia to support Kosovo joining again under some imaginary status. George Bush is history and so are his delusional ideas.

The comments in the article take a surprisingly static view of the situation in view of all the potential changes coming up.

- The Lisbon Treaty vote could result in a shift from unanimity to majority voting within the EU;

- the European Commission is issuing a feasibility study, a first step toward a Stabilization and Association Agreement, in about a month. It seems highly unlikely that it is going to report that all of the EU's efforts have been totally in vain, that the situation is hopeless.

- and the ICJ verdict could theoretically go in any direction, but telling a third or more of the world's countries (the ones that fund the UN and the ICJ) that they have misinterpreted international law really seems unlikely.

- the recent protests in Kosovo should help to focus EU attention on finally resolving the problem rather than simply contenting itself with "ensuring stability."

The situation could be radically different a year from now.

Girls, guys,

Be realistic. EU will never allow a state to enter which is no UN member. Kosovo isn't a state. It is a province.

The 5 countries that do take international law serious will block Kosovo anyway!

Economically Kosovo is a third world country (again it is a province, not a state).

So stop dreaming about EU!

'Where does it say that Serbia has to recognise Kosovo in order to enter EU. Now please be courteous and provide us with some sort of evidence of that.'

The need for good-neighborly relations with bordering countries has been a membership requirement from the beginning, I believe. How can Serbia claim to have good relations with a country it refuses to recognize and whose entry into international organizations it attempts to block?

International factor has to start working more seriously too.
(Olf, 18 September 2009 13:33)

I thought you were one of them, at least you are pretending it, so get to work...

There is now not a single day passing unless some more clarity appears on the behind of the scene deals that were made at the expense of Kosovo.
Might be sad, however I'm still woundering how the k-a could believe in the fary tale made in US...
You just need to read the daily newspapers around the world to find out where the wind is blowing!
There is no center of the world for the US, there is only a center of interest that can move so quickly, so stop dreaming but work for your future!

everytime I turn on my computer there is someone critisizing Kosovo,saying in effect that they are neanderthals.Poor albanians,youre finally starting to get the picture,that you were used to do US dirty work just like mudjahadeen against Russia in the 80's.Next youll be labelled terrorists again and be the enemy.SUCKERS.God bless KOSMET.

"blah, blah, blah....
You know it and we know it. It is absurd for a nation to be divided in so many parts. Kosova path to EU is together with Albania. Sorry if that ticks you off, but unfortunately some wrong-doings of the 1913 have to be set straight. Peace out!"
(Tirana, 19 September 2009 00:50)

This entire dissertation was based on wishful thinking and I did not see any factual information in it. This is a common theme with some posters here. While incorrect, this post does make for amusing reading though.

'everytime I turn on my computer there is someone critisizing Kosovo,saying in effect that they are neanderthals.'

On the other hand, I usually find references to Kosova as an entirely normal country, with the normal range interests (new schools and roads, farmers receiving milking machines to improve milk quality and work efficiency, plans for local elections, columnists berating the government no matter what it does ...).

You can find support for just about any point of view on the web - and the most commonly found ones are not necessarily the best. Looking at sites from both sides of an issue helps in maintaining a sense of proportion, although that clearly isn't as important as you'd hope as reinforcing previously held beliefs.

'Ah, but Serbia does have good relations with neighbouring countries. Kosovo is NOT a country so Serbia does not have to treat it as one. '

How then is Serbia going to define its southern border? In such a way, I mean, that other countries will accept its definition? In the newly signed police protocol they've stopped referring to an "administrative line" between Serbia and Kosovo - step by step, Serbia's claims to the area are being weakened.

'But if Serbia loses [at the ICJ], intransigence of K-albanians will be reinforced - but this will not change the opposition of ALL 5 EU states - leaving Kosovo in an even more prolonged state of limbo. '

Mmmm, I'm not so sure about that. The FM's of Spain and Kosovo have said that if the ICJ supports Kosovo, then they'll review their decision not to recognize its independence.

These were short items at some English-language site, and I was never able to track down an official statement in either case - both sounded like a hurried response to a journalist's question that they didn't want to go on the record with. So, this is only an unsupported assertion, but then, the statement that these countries' positions won't change is no more. Serbia may end up regretting its decision to go to the ICJ.

As far as I know even after the Lisbon treaty all members have to say OK to a new member!

That will not happen with Kosovo. But it will not happen with Serbia the coming years I am afraid.

Think the EU doesn't want new members the coming years.

But as long as Kosovo independence is illegal Kosovo will NEVER join EU!

Good we have international law!

And thanks to Spain and ohters!
Again, I am not Serb, not Albanian. Just a human being!

Well said Tirana! The dogs can continue to bark...

ok,we are a limbo state(at least,it is still better than being a serbian territory!) ans then,what else?
we will have to wait for viza? ok,we can do that to,
we will wait for eu,ok we cn do that to.. We are very patient when our interests are in play!
And after this being said,what else?
Albanians are albanians,and despite serbia ,turkey ,greeks and bulgarians etc tried for centuries to turn them serbian or turk or greek or bulgars,they did not succeed!So the problem is still there,isn't it?
It will just help albanians ,and just help us in looking to plan B!
europe is only a part of the world!

Tirana

You should take a look at what is being said from your allies about Kosovos chances of joining EU. Serbia does have an impact on Kosovo because according to inernational law and history Kosovo is Serbian territory inhabited by a majority Albanian population. Serbia is a major player in the Balkans. However, we know that when all comes around Serbia is pretty insignificant. Except when it comes to sports where we are compeating with the worlds best. Go Serbia!

LOL, ok amer, tell us the paragrapph from lisbon treaty where vetoing of new members will be abandoned.

spain (and others) made a clear as water message: don´t even think about it! nato and eu got the message, albo-camp obviously still hasn´t ....

don´t worry, you - as apart of serbia - will be part of the eu, if they make the race.

the liberation of kosmet will happen 1 day after eu-membership or finished south-stream.

you see, the only "unsecure" outcome is the winner of the horse race ...

constructivness of usa during liberation of kosmet will have a dirct impact on the economic-first-aid packages from moscow and beyjing as we´ve seen on the topic of "missile shild".

the golden rule buddy, the guys with all the gold make all the rules ...

Eh, where does it say in Lisbon that the recognition of states comes under QMV?

The closest claim to this is under "Initiatives of the High Representative for Foreign Affairs" which despite Lisbon is still "QMV following unanimous request".
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extension_to_qualified_majority_voting_under_the_Treaty_of_Lisbon

Let's see, that means UNANIMOUS request (I put the clue in capital letters) first, and then QMV.

The delusion continues...

Much ado about nothing. Why?
1. You are assuming that 5 states will always not recognize Kosova
2. That Serbia will enter EU without recognizing. Try waiting as all your neighbors join (and then be able to block you). 22 our of 27 EU nations recognize us.
(aRTA, 18 September 2009 18:35)

Russia said that they will not recognise Kosovo unless Serbia does first but Cyprus went a step further and said that even if Serbia does recognise Kosovo they will not.

Where does it say that Serbia has to recognise Kosovo in order to enter EU. Now please be courteous and provide us with some sort of evidence of that.
They have always said that Serbia has to do one more step and that is to get Ratko Mladic. Nothing about Kosovo here.

'Let's see, that means UNANIMOUS request (I put the clue in capital letters) first, and then QMV. '

Right, but this is a way of allowing a necessary step - membership for Kosovo - to be taken while at the same time not forcing 5 states to vote directly against Serbia, rather like the option of abstaining in the Security Council.

Lastly, Kosova and Albania are integrating day by day, and you all know it, but try your best not to even mention it.
(Tirana, 19 September 2009 00:50)

Why don't we set up a meeting one day, I will take you to some parts of Kosovo (because I can do it - but not you alone) and you will see with your eyes how "tight" is the integration between, say, Leposavic and Tirana.

'Where does it say that Serbia has to recognise Kosovo in order to enter EU. Now please be courteous and provide us with some sort of evidence of that.'

The need for good-neighborly relations with bordering countries has been a membership requirement from the beginning, I believe. How can Serbia claim to have good relations with a country it refuses to recognize and whose entry into international organizations it attempts to block?
(Amer, 19 September 2009 20:53)

Ah, but Serbia does have good relations with neighbouring countries. Kosovo is NOT a country so Serbia does not have to treat it as one.
Not recognising a breakaway region as a country is NOT in violation of EU standards. If it was then five EU countries would be expelled. Actually everyone has already said that recognition of Kosovo is not a condition so I belive that you are very wrong.

arta:
> Funny comment. So no matter how ICJ rules Serbia wins and Kosova loses, eh?

Wrong again 'arta'. Or is it 'aRTA'? Getting hoarse? ;)

Was actually commenting on the view held by some K-albanians that 'Kosovo is being blocked because of the position of the five member states' against the K-albanian UDI resulting in Kosovo's inability to 'move forward'.

And actually said that this view will strengthen over time.

And actually said that over time, K-albanians will eventually realise that the only possible solution to the consequences of their unilateral declaration of independence will be to go back to the negotiating table with the serbs & hash out an outcome that is acceptable to BOTH sides.

And my reference to the ICJ case was made in that context.

So if Serbia wins it's case, then that process of realisation can only accelerate.

But if Serbia loses, intransigence of K-albanians will be re-inforced - but this will not change the opposition of ALL 5 EU states - leaving Kosovo in an even more prolonged state of limbo.

Isn't about Serbia 'winning', but Kosovo losing - & not the ICJ case, but losing the ability to 'move forward.

And this is the view of some K-albanians.. a view that can only increase over time.

> Unless EU solves this, EULEX will be asked to leave after its mandate expires in a year .. EULEX will not stay there if people don't want them.

Now this really is funny.


miri:
> My question, and I don’t claim to be an “expert” is: Why would you think that Kosova would give up its sovereignty just so it can piggy back Serbia on its pathetic journey into EU.

Sovereignty?

And this even funnier ;)

Once again.. story here is about the growing concern of K-albanians over their future status. You're wasting your time talking to us. Should be talking to them instead.

due to a lack of time, I cannot follow the flow of information here and read each and every article... but

it is really refreshing to get a fresh dose of k-albanian wishful thinking again. thanks for making me smile!

the best one was the mentioning of the K-albanians "working hard" to send the foreign occupiers home " ASAP ".

needless to say what I think of our dear k-albanian friends, who post such an overdose of "wishful thinking"...

Just ask France, Uk, Germany...etc. that have embassies in Kosova and that need to give Serbia the OK. Ask them if Kosova is a country or a Serbian province
(aRTA, 20 September 2009 17:21)

No need to ask them. It is not up to them. Why don't you ask the UN and you will get the same answer as mine. Now their answer matters more than Germany's or any other country trying to circumvent UN.

Amer:
Is a basic difference between making an 'unsupported allegation' & one based on common sense.

May very well be the case that one or even two of the five MIGHT change their view on the illegality of the K-albanian UDI assuming & IF the the ICJ rules in favour of independence.

Stretches credibility to breaking point that ALL 5 will - which is the point I was making.

Still, talking in terms of absolutes is not to be recommended so will make the following amendment to my previous comment..

"But if Serbia loses, intransigence of K-albanians will be re-inforced - but this will 'very, very, very, very probably' not change the opposition of ALL 5 EU states - leaving Kosovo in an even more prolonged state of limbo. "

As for Serbia's decision to go before the ICJ, believe it was the right thing to do, whichever way the verdict falls.

As long as Kosovo is just a province it can only enter EU as part of Serbia.

If both sides agree, BOTH SIDES!, of course Kosovo can become independent.

Yes, like Slovakia.

Please stop wasting Western money. Thank you!

Once more with feeling:

""QMV following unanimous request".

That means, in the following order:

1: Unanimous request, i.e. the agreement of ALL member states representatives

2: IF it is unanimous, THEN QMV.

There is NOTHING in this text that means, implies or could otherwise be construed as meaning, recognition by the EU whilst EU member states do not recognize.

And that is all without even asking the question as to whether an EU FM even has the right to propose recognition.

This other 'interpretation' is simply grasping at invisible straws.

Kosovo is a province of Serbia and not a country.

All people residing in Kosovo are Serbian Citizens, no matter what ethnicity they may be from.

Therefore,

KOSOVO IS SERBIAN
(Another Canadian Serb, 18 September 2009 14:29)

I'm not and neither is Jason. We reside in Kosovo.

No need to ask them. It is not up to them. Why don't you ask the UN and you will get the same answer as mine. Now their answer matters more than Germany's or any other country trying to circumvent UN.
(Peggy, 21 September 2009 07:16)

Why? UN membership does not mean statehood, only UN membership.