“West could propose Kosovo partition”

bla, bla,bla....parrot.

Kosovo-USA,

Ivanovic is certainly not a citizen of Kosovo, nor are 95% of the others living north of the Ibar. Hate to break it to you.

“But, I repeat, it is not a question of territory in Kosovo. The identity of the Serbs is tied to Kosovo, no matter where they live, in Croatia, Serbia, Canada or America,” Ivanović said.


wow Oli, you can speak for yourself since you are Kosovar citizen, but not for other Serbs that have never been to Kosova/o.

It is not the west proposing partition, it's rather Belgrade officials behind close doors.
By the way, Oli is becoming a star in this site. I wonder who did he bribe and how much?

Is he being serious? Oliver Ivanovic doesn't even have a real job. Why would the west propose a partition? Belgrade will in the future so that they can try and keep as much of Kosovo as they can, as they know they have lost the majority of Kosovo already.

Desperation coming from Ivanovich.

Kosovars they dont care if Serbia thinks partition,cyprus style or anything else,we are happy to be free at list so EU is just another dessert for us,we get it yummmy if now we are happy just to have freedom the way it is.

"“I am afraid of western pragmatism, because that pragmatism offers some solutions that could influence a territorial partition,” Ivanović told daily Press. "

You are afraid that your useless spot will be deleted once the ICJ does its thing, and the partition seams to be your best chance to save some face. the true irony is that its your own rediculous statments that are not backed by nothing.
What a twist
But nobody cares, ;)

"One entity; two administrative units.
(Mike"

Thank you Oliver, but whe do not care for your "gift"
It is the Serbs that are becoming everyday more radicals over this issue, not us.
The time will come for Serbs to beg to recognise Kosovo, but even then who cares?

We got our neighbours who know us as Independent, even your neighbours know us as independent. :D
Like this is more than fine ;)

The usual useless hooligan rhetoric has been useless for 10+ years. Move on and get a life.
Kosovo is free from backwardness of ultra ethnic nationalists from Serbia trying to ruin Albanians.

The sooner we built a high voltage fence along northen border to stop smuggling, crime and serbian separatism, the better. Strange how a serbian authority speaks on west behalf, i wonder how would serbia react if Albanian minister of defence says: ''west could propose national unification of albanians for practical reasons''... we all know that west is totally against any partition of kosovo, on the other side west is against the unification of kosovo with albania, so how would west justify the partition of kosovo to albanians? ı think serbs should give up on kosovo, for the rough reason that albanians separated in two states are still weaker than albanians included in a single state.

"We are not satisfied with a solution that is not in accordance with the Serbian constitution and international law,” Ivanović said.

I think he is really having a laugh. And I tell you one reason why. Serbian Constitution means NOTHING to Kosovo Albanians. It was approved "unilaterely" if I can use the Serbian rhetoric.

Serbia would love to see a Kosovo partition and that would be an honorable exit for Serbia. But there should be not Kosovo partition unless we are looking to exchanging territories. But that could be a dangerous precendent in the region and might trigger the nationalists.

If Kosovo can't be outwardly partitioned, it can surely be internally partitioned a la Bosnia. Both Serbs and Albanians don't want to partition a region neither side has complete control over and to continue to insist by each side that the whole belongs to them is only to perpetuate this mess. At the very least K-Serbs get the north, Gracanica and Strpce. The Albanians get the rest. Any additional Serb municipality or enclave that wants to be part of Mitrovica can join on a case-by-case basis. The rest stays under Pristina.

One entity; two administrative units.

I've said all along that Kosovo will be partitioned. It's the only way for now but in the long run its not acceptable for Serbia to give up an inch of its territory. However, the EU is a strong believer in the isolation of the albanians so we have to accept this division of people for now. Serbs in Kosovo will soon enjoy white schengen and the albanians...well they won't. However, Kosovo albanians should not be to sad. After yesterdays mega summit, sponsored by the regions druglords, they can now travle freely to welthy Albania, Montenegro and Macedonia without visas. Wow!!! I think Serbia should skip its EU plans and join this M.I.C.E organization. By the way M.I.C.E stands for the Most Insignificant Countries in Europe.

Is he being serious? Oliver Ivanovic doesn't even have a real job. Why would the west propose a partition? Belgrade will in the future so that they can try and keep as much of Kosovo as they can, as they know they have lost the majority of Kosovo already.
Ian

Very true. Sounds like desperation from Ivanovic.

So is it the West who is proposing partition or Ivanovic aka Serbian government?

"So is it the West who is proposing partition or Ivanovic aka Serbian government?" (Ptoleme)

-- Judging from the comments here, can you think of a reason why there *shouldn't* be a partition of some sort? Maybe the Albanians that actually live in Kosovo (unlike 95% of those who post here) are more accomodating, but if the comments here are any indication of collective feeling, I daresay both sides could live together in the same entity. Personally, I think Pristina would want a partition too. It relieves them of having to give a damn about integrating the Serb municipalities without firm international commitment beyond empty rhetoric.

RKS - you do know that northern Kosovo was never really a part if Kosovo, don't you? It was only added by Tito after WWII to give the province a more Serbian character. In this sense, its natural place is in Serbia, not Kosovo.

So then, why are you so deseperate to keep hold of the north? And why do Kosovo Albanians seemed so determined to control the lives of so many Serbs, when they spent years rejecting Serb control over themselves.

When the reality of the situation is viewed honestly and in its totality-partition is a great solution. It gives both sides much of what they want-self governance of thier people within kosovo. It allows Serbs to hold on to thier historic and religious heartland. It allows albanians thier own state in kosovo.

Serbia is not going to go to war to take back all of Kosovo-this is just a fact. And nobody wants to see any more blood spilled in the Balkans.

People need to be practical. In a partition, the Kosovo Serbs will hold on to most of thier holy sites and they will be able to govern themselves or if they choose reunite with Serbia proper.

I may be wrong-but I think partition is the best , most humane and amicable soultion. I dont understand the opposition to partition, as long as that partition allows Serbia to retain thier holy lands.

This solution may bring about a permanent peace between albanians and serbs and allow both people to move into a brighter future.

I've said all along that Kosovo will be partitioned. It's the only way for now but in the long run its not acceptable for Serbia to give up an inch of its territory. However, the EU is a strong believer in the isolation of the albanians so we have to accept this division of people for now. Serbs in Kosovo will soon enjoy white schengen and the albanians...well they won't. However, Kosovo albanians should not be to sad. After yesterdays mega summit, sponsored by the regions druglords, they can now travle freely to welthy Albania, Montenegro and Macedonia without visas. Wow!!! I think Serbia should skip its EU plans and join this M.I.C.E organization. By the way M.I.C.E stands for the Most Insignificant Countries in Europe.
(Mikael C, 27 June 2010 10:58)
If what you are selling helps the Serbian people accept the loss of Kosovo-go for it. I don't think anyone outside of Serbia will buy it though.

"But, I repeat, it is not a question of territory in Kosovo. The identity of the Serbs is tied to Kosovo, no matter where they live, in Croatia, Serbia, Canada or America,” Ivanović said"

That is very good news; Ivanovic has found the solution to the Kosovo problem. He does not care about such worldly things as "territory;" after all, Serbs live all over the world, in Canada, America etc. It is merely a spiritual question of identity.

Is Ivanovic implying that Kosovo/a, the real worldly place, should simply be ruled by the people who live there (ie, 90% Albanians plus Serb and other minorities) in whatever way the majority so determine, as long as there is some recognition of the spiritual connection of the international Serb people? In that case, I recommend Serbia offers the following compromise: Kosovo/a independence in exchange for a clause in the K constitution that the Serb people feel a spiritual attachment to the country. That would supplement the already wide autonomy of the Serb enclaves and the virtual independence of the territories of the Orthodox church under the A Plan.

all those who dream of partition, like our dear k-albanian friends or even the european bureaucrats should rather come to reason.

every attempt to grab away serbian territory is illegal and only to be called agression.

Serbia has every right to defend what is rightfully serbian.
and I am quite sure Serbia will defend what is serbian..

history has proven it.

Mr Ivanovic you declare that Kosova is Serbia . Now I am confused is the west partition Serbia or Kosova.

#...wow Oli, you can speak for yourself since you are Kosovar citizen, but not for other Serbs that have never been to Kosova/o.

It is not the west proposing partition, it's rather Belgrade officials behind close doors.
By the way, Oli is becoming a star in this site. I wonder who did he bribe and how much?
(Kosova-USA, 27 June 2010 11:00)>

Yes, i agree, why is it that each and every one of oli's pronouncements is greeted as special "news" here? whereas it is just his personal opinion, shared by many in the belgd regime but certainly not in kosova.

there have to be ways in which there is appropriate self-governing of predominantly serb/minority communities, but it MUST be within the laws and structures of kosova and not part of some foreign country (like serbia.) NOT as it is now, utterly lawless and dangerous for all, except mafia. and NEVER the way bosnia has been "daytonized." that particular hell shall not be replicated, we have learned our lesson the hard way.

at any rate, everyone knows that this has nothing to do with what is good for the people of kosovo, nor any true "religious" feelings (please!!) and everything to do with desperately holding on to kosova as a colony. which, thank god, is yesteryear's story.

speaking of the citizens of kosova (weren't we?) -- as i feared, the latest mass grave revelations inside serbia have still not led to any action. the news came out (to us) on may 10th! but what's the rush, eh? the murdered, then stolen remains of those kosovar albanians have lain there (presumably) since spring 1999, and they ain't going anywhere, right?

maybe we should wait another 10 years? in other words, "justice, serbian style." perhaps our dear oli should discuss that issue, eh?
not to mention those "nice" eulex officials.

and now, speaking of REAL news, our PRIDE parade (lgbt community and allies) is about to take off in frisco in a couple of hours (10:30 am, western time.) it's covered on the news here exactly like any other big event here, and generally in a positive way: "pride parade turns 40." a few hundred thousand people expected to show up, in a (relatively) hate-free zone.

who cares about age, orientation, ethnicity, etc.? all are welcome, 'cept for the nazi types. lots of cops, lots of politicians, probably no violence. "dykes on bikes," "mikes on bikes," various religion-identified contingents, union people, bar floats, drag queens, dancing, whatever. live and let live, can you imagine!!

and so many families watching and partaking, message: tolerance, fun, live and let live.

ciao!

roberto
frisco

Yes, a partition would be a pragmatic solution, and in my opinion it's the only escape from the current deadlock and limbo state where both sides insist on their position ("Kosovo is Serbia" vs. "Kosovo is independent"). Details like the status of enclaves and monestaries could be negotioated, but the new border would be along the Ibar river.

Serbs take northen mitrovica , Rep o Albania gets kosovo, medvegje, presheva and bujanov..., deal?
(tiberius, 28 June 2010 01:58)

Albanian keyboard irridentists are in no position to make demands from Belgrade. If a partition is to be made, then Belgrade will be the one calling the shots, i.e. what stays, what goes.

A partition should be the very last resort after negotiations. if partition does occur it should be on these lines.

1) Montenegro gets Pec & Decani

2) Serbia keeps the north ( all Mitrovica) Gracanica and Strpce.

3. Albania takes Prizren and Pristina.

4. Agreement between Belgrade and Tirana on holy sites, return of IDPs, compensation and a population exchange if needs be.

Again partition should be the final resort after all other options are exhausted.

Kosovo IS already partitioned! Big surprise, isn't it?
People in Pristina and Frisco can choose to ignore that de facto situation on the ground if they like, but that doesn't make Kosovo any less partitioned.

1) Montenegro gets Pec & Decani

2) Serbia keeps the north ( all Mitrovica) Gracanica and Strpce.

3. Albania takes Prizren and Pristina.

4. Agreement between Belgrade and Tirana on holy sites, return of IDPs, compensation and a population exchange if needs be.

Again partition should be the final resort after all other options are exhausted.
(Niall O'Doherty, 28 June 2010 11:56)

Sorry niall, but 2+2 it does not = 5. I think you need some geography leasons. Especially when I read your #1, I just had to laugh so hard that I fell from my chair.

They could but they won't propose it.Why should they?It's a done deal.This is the wishful thinking of the Serbian elites who alternate between establishing non existant dialogue( never mentioning what) to this new line.
The fact is that they have no clue as to how to proceed but judgment is coming when the popuation realise they are like the emperor who has no clothes.Their promises were empty, their thoughts fantstic delusions of joining the EU and dealing with people who recognised Kosovo in the first place.The fact that the USA would reneogotiate or the 22 who have recognised Kosovo is delusional beyond belief,
Hopefully it will lead to the fall of the Tadic regime.

Roberto,

Where you got that "dangerous" Serbia and the Kosovo as Serbian colony?

The truth as we learned in the school (not Serbian and not Russian!):

- Kosovo was Serbian till 18th century, it increasingly became occupied by Albanians. Don't you know where the descendants of once-Kosovar Serbs live? In Szentendre, Ráckeve and many other villages in Hungary. Ever been there? It's close to Budapest.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rackeve
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Szentendre

Are you afraid to visit these romantic little towns near Budapest because you may lose your faith in... CNN & FOX fairy tales?

You who preach to be open minded - please open your own mind.


- And that "dangerous" Serbia is from what part of CNN & FOX & co. broadcasting?

It's too easy to see through the infantile sharades of serb politicians. Partitioning of Kosovo is what the Serb government now wants but has not got the courage to say it directly because of fear of the blood thirsty nationalists in the country.

Can a Serb here from the Serb Camp (pretty much all living in the "evil WEST") tell me what religious or spiritual does Serbia have with northern part of Kosovo that you want a partition "along the Ibar river"? Why ask for such a silly thing when it will not change a thing for the average Kosovar minority. Crime will still be rampent there, the belgrade sponsored cronies are doing just fine. Instead of asking that decentralization take place so that it improves the conditions of the Kosovar Serbs there.

Stop playing politics, crime is crazy in that area. Unemployment is around 80%, stop trying to politicize everything. Independence was the only viable solution.

The two most significant things in the statement are the use of the word 'Albanian' and the non-acceptance of the independence declaration. As for the rest, I am not sure that Serbia should be so compliant in its negotiations with the EU, but I can understand the pragmatics in the line of argument.

The real Kosovans I know are peaceful Serbs who were driven out by Albanians long before the Milosevic era.

The mono-ethnically motivated Albanians who remain in the province pretend they are the natural inheritors. However, they have no special claim.

Autonomy yes, udi no.

The hypocrisy stinks. Every part of Yugoslavia was allowed to secede, all peoples allowed the right to self determination-except for the Serbs. The very same arguments for Kosovo independence is now not accepted from the Serbs. Its a time bomb that will blow up in everyones faces.

the serbian territories in kosovo as in israel

Serbs take northen mitrovica , Rep o Albania gets kosovo, medvegje, presheva and bujanov..., deal?

Sorry niall, but 2+2 it does not = 5. I think you need some geography leasons. Especially when I read your #1, I just had to laugh so hard that I fell from my chair.
(Kosova-USA, 28 June 2010 16:29)

I guess compromise is not in the dictionary of an intolerant Albanian irridentist like you.

...montenegro getting peja and decan? I doubt montenegrins would even dare to have such claims, ulqin habitants would love to hear such claims though. Also i doubt serbia can even dream of getting anything south of iber...including gracanica, which is succesfully integrated into the albanian institutions.. since some one already mentioned montenegro, i can add plava, gucia, hoti, gruda, malesia, ulqin and tivar to the list of Albanian territories...

One question for those pro-independence.

You often say that eventually the five countries who thnk that interntional law should be respected will eventually recognize Kosovo.

Well, I don't think so, but OK...

But what about other nations who want to join EU?

Ukraine will never recognize Kosovo because of Crimea.

Bosnia will never recognize Kosovo.

Georgia will never recognize Kosovo because of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Moldavia... you got the picture!

Serious answers please!

Sorry niall, but 2+2 it does not = 5. I think you need some geography leasons. Especially when I read your #1, I just had to laugh so hard that I fell from my chair.
(Kosova-USA, 28 June 2010 16:29)

I guess compromise is not in the dictionary of an intolerant Albanian irridentist like you.
(Niall O'Doherty, 28 June 2010 19:38)

You still don't get it. What does your so called Pec and decani has to do with Montenegro? Montenegro has not claimed these two cities, so who are you to give things away that don't belong to you?

Oliver Ivanović is repeating the same Greater-Serbian nationalist babble of late dictator Slobodan Milosevic. But NATO will pay no attention to him, and Kosovo will continue to have the same borders as the former Yugoslav autonomous province.

You still don't get it. What does your so called Pec and decani has to do with Montenegro? Montenegro has not claimed these two cities, so who are you to give things away that don't belong to you?
(Kosova-USA, 28 June 2010 21:32)

I dont think YOU get it. The Patriarchiate Pec and Decani contains the seat of the Serbian Orthodox Church. There is no way that Belgrade would allow it to remain under permenant Albanian control so I think in this regard a compromise will be reached. The transfer of this region to Montenegro would placate both Serbs and Albanians as Serbs would be content with the area being under control of Podgorica while Albanians would be staisfied that they would not come under Belgrade control.

The present situation in the short to medium term is simply not viable or feasable so a final agreement is inevitable as the Albanians will be forced by the West to sit down and talk to Belgrade. You see in any agreement a compromise will have to be made by all sides and if that means an outside involvement in this (Montenegro) than so be it. Belgrade would be giving up 70% of Kosmet in exchange for peace, however keeping the enclaves and holy sites. Albania would receive 50% of the province however in exchange Tirana would be bound by international agreement for the upkeep and protection of the holy sites and churches (eg. Prizren) and cooperate with Belgrade regarding this. Podgorica in turn would do the same with Pec and Decani.

It may sate the appetite of the hardline Albanian nationalists like you, but I think it would go a long way to secure peace, prosperity and stability in a region that craves it. It may not be to everyone's liking but I do belive its a start. Do you have anything better to add rather than the usual 'Kosova' is Albania nonsense.

Hypothetically speaking if both sides were to swap territories (N. Mitro for Presheva & Kumanovci) do you think that would that set a precedent for additional partitions?

Republika Srpksa to join Serbia proper?
How about Montenegro?
There are more Serbs, Albanians & other minorities (collectively) living in Montenegro than there are Montenegrins?

How would that affect these two week countries (Montenegro & Serbia)?

Thanks Niall!
But I have to admit that the Serbian politicians are extremely irritating with this entirely unconstructive never-line of theirs, and guys like Jovan over here. If only the Serbs would listen to Patriarch Irinej.

"AMERICA LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT"!!

first off kosovo was not a province of yugoslavia !! kosovo is and always was a province of serbia ...which was a republic of yugoslavia.. huge difference..it 100% belongs to serbia.

even 35 years ago when you could really say albanians had it made in kosovo most hated living in serbia as they do today in macedonia and montenegro...in the US we have a saying "AMERICA LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT" this is exactly whats needed in serbia's kosovo then and today!!!!

I've said all along that Kosovo will be partitioned. It's the only way for now but in the long run its not acceptable for Serbia to give up an inch of its territory. However, the EU is a strong believer in the isolation of the albanians so we have to accept this division of people for now. Serbs in Kosovo will soon enjoy white schengen and the albanians...well they won't. However, Kosovo albanians should not be to sad. After yesterdays mega summit, sponsored by the regions druglords, they can now travle freely to welthy Albania, Montenegro and Macedonia without visas. Wow!!! I think Serbia should skip its EU plans and join this M.I.C.E organization. By the way M.I.C.E stands for the Most Insignificant Countries in Europe.

Is he being serious? Oliver Ivanovic doesn't even have a real job. Why would the west propose a partition? Belgrade will in the future so that they can try and keep as much of Kosovo as they can, as they know they have lost the majority of Kosovo already.

Kosovo-USA,

Ivanovic is certainly not a citizen of Kosovo, nor are 95% of the others living north of the Ibar. Hate to break it to you.

“But, I repeat, it is not a question of territory in Kosovo. The identity of the Serbs is tied to Kosovo, no matter where they live, in Croatia, Serbia, Canada or America,” Ivanović said.


wow Oli, you can speak for yourself since you are Kosovar citizen, but not for other Serbs that have never been to Kosova/o.

It is not the west proposing partition, it's rather Belgrade officials behind close doors.
By the way, Oli is becoming a star in this site. I wonder who did he bribe and how much?

Desperation coming from Ivanovich.

If Kosovo can't be outwardly partitioned, it can surely be internally partitioned a la Bosnia. Both Serbs and Albanians don't want to partition a region neither side has complete control over and to continue to insist by each side that the whole belongs to them is only to perpetuate this mess. At the very least K-Serbs get the north, Gracanica and Strpce. The Albanians get the rest. Any additional Serb municipality or enclave that wants to be part of Mitrovica can join on a case-by-case basis. The rest stays under Pristina.

One entity; two administrative units.

#...wow Oli, you can speak for yourself since you are Kosovar citizen, but not for other Serbs that have never been to Kosova/o.

It is not the west proposing partition, it's rather Belgrade officials behind close doors.
By the way, Oli is becoming a star in this site. I wonder who did he bribe and how much?
(Kosova-USA, 27 June 2010 11:00)>

Yes, i agree, why is it that each and every one of oli's pronouncements is greeted as special "news" here? whereas it is just his personal opinion, shared by many in the belgd regime but certainly not in kosova.

there have to be ways in which there is appropriate self-governing of predominantly serb/minority communities, but it MUST be within the laws and structures of kosova and not part of some foreign country (like serbia.) NOT as it is now, utterly lawless and dangerous for all, except mafia. and NEVER the way bosnia has been "daytonized." that particular hell shall not be replicated, we have learned our lesson the hard way.

at any rate, everyone knows that this has nothing to do with what is good for the people of kosovo, nor any true "religious" feelings (please!!) and everything to do with desperately holding on to kosova as a colony. which, thank god, is yesteryear's story.

speaking of the citizens of kosova (weren't we?) -- as i feared, the latest mass grave revelations inside serbia have still not led to any action. the news came out (to us) on may 10th! but what's the rush, eh? the murdered, then stolen remains of those kosovar albanians have lain there (presumably) since spring 1999, and they ain't going anywhere, right?

maybe we should wait another 10 years? in other words, "justice, serbian style." perhaps our dear oli should discuss that issue, eh?
not to mention those "nice" eulex officials.

and now, speaking of REAL news, our PRIDE parade (lgbt community and allies) is about to take off in frisco in a couple of hours (10:30 am, western time.) it's covered on the news here exactly like any other big event here, and generally in a positive way: "pride parade turns 40." a few hundred thousand people expected to show up, in a (relatively) hate-free zone.

who cares about age, orientation, ethnicity, etc.? all are welcome, 'cept for the nazi types. lots of cops, lots of politicians, probably no violence. "dykes on bikes," "mikes on bikes," various religion-identified contingents, union people, bar floats, drag queens, dancing, whatever. live and let live, can you imagine!!

and so many families watching and partaking, message: tolerance, fun, live and let live.

ciao!

roberto
frisco

Kosovars they dont care if Serbia thinks partition,cyprus style or anything else,we are happy to be free at list so EU is just another dessert for us,we get it yummmy if now we are happy just to have freedom the way it is.

all those who dream of partition, like our dear k-albanian friends or even the european bureaucrats should rather come to reason.

every attempt to grab away serbian territory is illegal and only to be called agression.

Serbia has every right to defend what is rightfully serbian.
and I am quite sure Serbia will defend what is serbian..

history has proven it.

The sooner we built a high voltage fence along northen border to stop smuggling, crime and serbian separatism, the better. Strange how a serbian authority speaks on west behalf, i wonder how would serbia react if Albanian minister of defence says: ''west could propose national unification of albanians for practical reasons''... we all know that west is totally against any partition of kosovo, on the other side west is against the unification of kosovo with albania, so how would west justify the partition of kosovo to albanians? ı think serbs should give up on kosovo, for the rough reason that albanians separated in two states are still weaker than albanians included in a single state.

"“I am afraid of western pragmatism, because that pragmatism offers some solutions that could influence a territorial partition,” Ivanović told daily Press. "

You are afraid that your useless spot will be deleted once the ICJ does its thing, and the partition seams to be your best chance to save some face. the true irony is that its your own rediculous statments that are not backed by nothing.
What a twist
But nobody cares, ;)

"One entity; two administrative units.
(Mike"

Thank you Oliver, but whe do not care for your "gift"
It is the Serbs that are becoming everyday more radicals over this issue, not us.
The time will come for Serbs to beg to recognise Kosovo, but even then who cares?

We got our neighbours who know us as Independent, even your neighbours know us as independent. :D
Like this is more than fine ;)

The usual useless hooligan rhetoric has been useless for 10+ years. Move on and get a life.
Kosovo is free from backwardness of ultra ethnic nationalists from Serbia trying to ruin Albanians.

I've said all along that Kosovo will be partitioned. It's the only way for now but in the long run its not acceptable for Serbia to give up an inch of its territory. However, the EU is a strong believer in the isolation of the albanians so we have to accept this division of people for now. Serbs in Kosovo will soon enjoy white schengen and the albanians...well they won't. However, Kosovo albanians should not be to sad. After yesterdays mega summit, sponsored by the regions druglords, they can now travle freely to welthy Albania, Montenegro and Macedonia without visas. Wow!!! I think Serbia should skip its EU plans and join this M.I.C.E organization. By the way M.I.C.E stands for the Most Insignificant Countries in Europe.
(Mikael C, 27 June 2010 10:58)
If what you are selling helps the Serbian people accept the loss of Kosovo-go for it. I don't think anyone outside of Serbia will buy it though.

"But, I repeat, it is not a question of territory in Kosovo. The identity of the Serbs is tied to Kosovo, no matter where they live, in Croatia, Serbia, Canada or America,” Ivanović said"

That is very good news; Ivanovic has found the solution to the Kosovo problem. He does not care about such worldly things as "territory;" after all, Serbs live all over the world, in Canada, America etc. It is merely a spiritual question of identity.

Is Ivanovic implying that Kosovo/a, the real worldly place, should simply be ruled by the people who live there (ie, 90% Albanians plus Serb and other minorities) in whatever way the majority so determine, as long as there is some recognition of the spiritual connection of the international Serb people? In that case, I recommend Serbia offers the following compromise: Kosovo/a independence in exchange for a clause in the K constitution that the Serb people feel a spiritual attachment to the country. That would supplement the already wide autonomy of the Serb enclaves and the virtual independence of the territories of the Orthodox church under the A Plan.

"So is it the West who is proposing partition or Ivanovic aka Serbian government?" (Ptoleme)

-- Judging from the comments here, can you think of a reason why there *shouldn't* be a partition of some sort? Maybe the Albanians that actually live in Kosovo (unlike 95% of those who post here) are more accomodating, but if the comments here are any indication of collective feeling, I daresay both sides could live together in the same entity. Personally, I think Pristina would want a partition too. It relieves them of having to give a damn about integrating the Serb municipalities without firm international commitment beyond empty rhetoric.

bla, bla,bla....parrot.

the serbian territories in kosovo as in israel

"We are not satisfied with a solution that is not in accordance with the Serbian constitution and international law,” Ivanović said.

I think he is really having a laugh. And I tell you one reason why. Serbian Constitution means NOTHING to Kosovo Albanians. It was approved "unilaterely" if I can use the Serbian rhetoric.

Serbia would love to see a Kosovo partition and that would be an honorable exit for Serbia. But there should be not Kosovo partition unless we are looking to exchanging territories. But that could be a dangerous precendent in the region and might trigger the nationalists.

When the reality of the situation is viewed honestly and in its totality-partition is a great solution. It gives both sides much of what they want-self governance of thier people within kosovo. It allows Serbs to hold on to thier historic and religious heartland. It allows albanians thier own state in kosovo.

Serbia is not going to go to war to take back all of Kosovo-this is just a fact. And nobody wants to see any more blood spilled in the Balkans.

People need to be practical. In a partition, the Kosovo Serbs will hold on to most of thier holy sites and they will be able to govern themselves or if they choose reunite with Serbia proper.

I may be wrong-but I think partition is the best , most humane and amicable soultion. I dont understand the opposition to partition, as long as that partition allows Serbia to retain thier holy lands.

This solution may bring about a permanent peace between albanians and serbs and allow both people to move into a brighter future.

Yes, a partition would be a pragmatic solution, and in my opinion it's the only escape from the current deadlock and limbo state where both sides insist on their position ("Kosovo is Serbia" vs. "Kosovo is independent"). Details like the status of enclaves and monestaries could be negotioated, but the new border would be along the Ibar river.

Mr Ivanovic you declare that Kosova is Serbia . Now I am confused is the west partition Serbia or Kosova.

Is he being serious? Oliver Ivanovic doesn't even have a real job. Why would the west propose a partition? Belgrade will in the future so that they can try and keep as much of Kosovo as they can, as they know they have lost the majority of Kosovo already.
Ian

Very true. Sounds like desperation from Ivanovic.

They could but they won't propose it.Why should they?It's a done deal.This is the wishful thinking of the Serbian elites who alternate between establishing non existant dialogue( never mentioning what) to this new line.
The fact is that they have no clue as to how to proceed but judgment is coming when the popuation realise they are like the emperor who has no clothes.Their promises were empty, their thoughts fantstic delusions of joining the EU and dealing with people who recognised Kosovo in the first place.The fact that the USA would reneogotiate or the 22 who have recognised Kosovo is delusional beyond belief,
Hopefully it will lead to the fall of the Tadic regime.

So is it the West who is proposing partition or Ivanovic aka Serbian government?

Can a Serb here from the Serb Camp (pretty much all living in the "evil WEST") tell me what religious or spiritual does Serbia have with northern part of Kosovo that you want a partition "along the Ibar river"? Why ask for such a silly thing when it will not change a thing for the average Kosovar minority. Crime will still be rampent there, the belgrade sponsored cronies are doing just fine. Instead of asking that decentralization take place so that it improves the conditions of the Kosovar Serbs there.

Stop playing politics, crime is crazy in that area. Unemployment is around 80%, stop trying to politicize everything. Independence was the only viable solution.

Roberto,

Where you got that "dangerous" Serbia and the Kosovo as Serbian colony?

The truth as we learned in the school (not Serbian and not Russian!):

- Kosovo was Serbian till 18th century, it increasingly became occupied by Albanians. Don't you know where the descendants of once-Kosovar Serbs live? In Szentendre, Ráckeve and many other villages in Hungary. Ever been there? It's close to Budapest.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rackeve
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Szentendre

Are you afraid to visit these romantic little towns near Budapest because you may lose your faith in... CNN & FOX fairy tales?

You who preach to be open minded - please open your own mind.


- And that "dangerous" Serbia is from what part of CNN & FOX & co. broadcasting?

1) Montenegro gets Pec & Decani

2) Serbia keeps the north ( all Mitrovica) Gracanica and Strpce.

3. Albania takes Prizren and Pristina.

4. Agreement between Belgrade and Tirana on holy sites, return of IDPs, compensation and a population exchange if needs be.

Again partition should be the final resort after all other options are exhausted.
(Niall O'Doherty, 28 June 2010 11:56)

Sorry niall, but 2+2 it does not = 5. I think you need some geography leasons. Especially when I read your #1, I just had to laugh so hard that I fell from my chair.

It's too easy to see through the infantile sharades of serb politicians. Partitioning of Kosovo is what the Serb government now wants but has not got the courage to say it directly because of fear of the blood thirsty nationalists in the country.

Serbs take northen mitrovica , Rep o Albania gets kosovo, medvegje, presheva and bujanov..., deal?
(tiberius, 28 June 2010 01:58)

Albanian keyboard irridentists are in no position to make demands from Belgrade. If a partition is to be made, then Belgrade will be the one calling the shots, i.e. what stays, what goes.

A partition should be the very last resort after negotiations. if partition does occur it should be on these lines.

1) Montenegro gets Pec & Decani

2) Serbia keeps the north ( all Mitrovica) Gracanica and Strpce.

3. Albania takes Prizren and Pristina.

4. Agreement between Belgrade and Tirana on holy sites, return of IDPs, compensation and a population exchange if needs be.

Again partition should be the final resort after all other options are exhausted.

Oliver Ivanović is repeating the same Greater-Serbian nationalist babble of late dictator Slobodan Milosevic. But NATO will pay no attention to him, and Kosovo will continue to have the same borders as the former Yugoslav autonomous province.

You still don't get it. What does your so called Pec and decani has to do with Montenegro? Montenegro has not claimed these two cities, so who are you to give things away that don't belong to you?
(Kosova-USA, 28 June 2010 21:32)

I dont think YOU get it. The Patriarchiate Pec and Decani contains the seat of the Serbian Orthodox Church. There is no way that Belgrade would allow it to remain under permenant Albanian control so I think in this regard a compromise will be reached. The transfer of this region to Montenegro would placate both Serbs and Albanians as Serbs would be content with the area being under control of Podgorica while Albanians would be staisfied that they would not come under Belgrade control.

The present situation in the short to medium term is simply not viable or feasable so a final agreement is inevitable as the Albanians will be forced by the West to sit down and talk to Belgrade. You see in any agreement a compromise will have to be made by all sides and if that means an outside involvement in this (Montenegro) than so be it. Belgrade would be giving up 70% of Kosmet in exchange for peace, however keeping the enclaves and holy sites. Albania would receive 50% of the province however in exchange Tirana would be bound by international agreement for the upkeep and protection of the holy sites and churches (eg. Prizren) and cooperate with Belgrade regarding this. Podgorica in turn would do the same with Pec and Decani.

It may sate the appetite of the hardline Albanian nationalists like you, but I think it would go a long way to secure peace, prosperity and stability in a region that craves it. It may not be to everyone's liking but I do belive its a start. Do you have anything better to add rather than the usual 'Kosova' is Albania nonsense.

Serbs take northen mitrovica , Rep o Albania gets kosovo, medvegje, presheva and bujanov..., deal?

Kosovo IS already partitioned! Big surprise, isn't it?
People in Pristina and Frisco can choose to ignore that de facto situation on the ground if they like, but that doesn't make Kosovo any less partitioned.

Sorry niall, but 2+2 it does not = 5. I think you need some geography leasons. Especially when I read your #1, I just had to laugh so hard that I fell from my chair.
(Kosova-USA, 28 June 2010 16:29)

I guess compromise is not in the dictionary of an intolerant Albanian irridentist like you.

The two most significant things in the statement are the use of the word 'Albanian' and the non-acceptance of the independence declaration. As for the rest, I am not sure that Serbia should be so compliant in its negotiations with the EU, but I can understand the pragmatics in the line of argument.

The real Kosovans I know are peaceful Serbs who were driven out by Albanians long before the Milosevic era.

The mono-ethnically motivated Albanians who remain in the province pretend they are the natural inheritors. However, they have no special claim.

Autonomy yes, udi no.

RKS - you do know that northern Kosovo was never really a part if Kosovo, don't you? It was only added by Tito after WWII to give the province a more Serbian character. In this sense, its natural place is in Serbia, not Kosovo.

So then, why are you so deseperate to keep hold of the north? And why do Kosovo Albanians seemed so determined to control the lives of so many Serbs, when they spent years rejecting Serb control over themselves.

Sorry niall, but 2+2 it does not = 5. I think you need some geography leasons. Especially when I read your #1, I just had to laugh so hard that I fell from my chair.
(Kosova-USA, 28 June 2010 16:29)

I guess compromise is not in the dictionary of an intolerant Albanian irridentist like you.
(Niall O'Doherty, 28 June 2010 19:38)

You still don't get it. What does your so called Pec and decani has to do with Montenegro? Montenegro has not claimed these two cities, so who are you to give things away that don't belong to you?

One question for those pro-independence.

You often say that eventually the five countries who thnk that interntional law should be respected will eventually recognize Kosovo.

Well, I don't think so, but OK...

But what about other nations who want to join EU?

Ukraine will never recognize Kosovo because of Crimea.

Bosnia will never recognize Kosovo.

Georgia will never recognize Kosovo because of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Moldavia... you got the picture!

Serious answers please!

...montenegro getting peja and decan? I doubt montenegrins would even dare to have such claims, ulqin habitants would love to hear such claims though. Also i doubt serbia can even dream of getting anything south of iber...including gracanica, which is succesfully integrated into the albanian institutions.. since some one already mentioned montenegro, i can add plava, gucia, hoti, gruda, malesia, ulqin and tivar to the list of Albanian territories...

Thanks Niall!
But I have to admit that the Serbian politicians are extremely irritating with this entirely unconstructive never-line of theirs, and guys like Jovan over here. If only the Serbs would listen to Patriarch Irinej.

The hypocrisy stinks. Every part of Yugoslavia was allowed to secede, all peoples allowed the right to self determination-except for the Serbs. The very same arguments for Kosovo independence is now not accepted from the Serbs. Its a time bomb that will blow up in everyones faces.

Hypothetically speaking if both sides were to swap territories (N. Mitro for Presheva & Kumanovci) do you think that would that set a precedent for additional partitions?

Republika Srpksa to join Serbia proper?
How about Montenegro?
There are more Serbs, Albanians & other minorities (collectively) living in Montenegro than there are Montenegrins?

How would that affect these two week countries (Montenegro & Serbia)?

"AMERICA LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT"!!

first off kosovo was not a province of yugoslavia !! kosovo is and always was a province of serbia ...which was a republic of yugoslavia.. huge difference..it 100% belongs to serbia.

even 35 years ago when you could really say albanians had it made in kosovo most hated living in serbia as they do today in macedonia and montenegro...in the US we have a saying "AMERICA LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT" this is exactly whats needed in serbia's kosovo then and today!!!!