“Serbia should deal with Kosovo issue”

Fuele said that a candidate with an unresolved issue, or conflict, cannot expect to be allowed to join the EU

hm,I think I told you so long ago.

Well it doesn't get much clearer then that. Forget about the EU and fight for what we believe in. Tadic and co should not dare to recognize the theft of Kosovo in exchange for EU membership. We need to see that the alternative to the EU is Russia and the entire eastern block. Forget about hypocrites in the west. They want nothing but the destruction of our people.

How many times have Albanian camp been right vs the Serbian ones? 100 times now, why do you people still think we are here to provoke you?

Kosovo will probably obtain EU candidate status in the spring of 2012 before the parliamentary elections in Serbia

I truly think that they (the EU) should lay it out straight forward for Serbia right away, "Unless you recognise Kosovo" you will remain where you are...in a pretty sad condition!
But I guess one step at a time is working quite well so far!

"I truly think that they (the EU) should lay it out straight forward for Serbia right away, "Unless you recognise Kosovo" you will remain where you are...in a pretty sad condition!
But I guess one step at a time is working quite well so far!
(burho, 18 September 2010, 11:20)"

Are you speaking for those 5 EU members that refused to recognize "Kosova"?

Well, Mircea did state previously that Serbia can only join the EU no earlier than 2020 -- so she can afford to keep the Kosovo issue on the back burner until 2020. Right?

"EU Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fuele told Reuters that Serbia cannot join the EU if it does not adequately deal with the issue of Kosovo."

-- Fine. Do what you have to do: partition, cantonize, daytonize, protectorize, or jazzercise. Albanians stay on their side of the fence, Serbs stay on theirs, and everyone moves forward.

Adequately? Like taking in account 1244? And the Serbian constitution? And the territorial integrity of Serbia?

Indeed, EU! It is about time!

And otherwise: if Kosovo, then also Kurdistan, Tibet, Abkhazia, ....
(Ron, 18 September 2010 15:39)
I must have been sleeping the last few days, when did these places start wanting to join the EU?

Diana Johnstone Says it all:

"In its dealings with the Western powers, recent Serbian diplomacy has displayed all the perspicacity of a rabbit cornered by a rattlesnake. After some helpless spasms of movement, the poor creature lets itself be eaten."
http://www.counterpunch.org/johnstone09172010.html

To all Albanians,

Stop dreaming about joining the EU.

Albania and Kosovo will probably join the EU in the year 3000. HA HA HA!!!!!!!!

Dear Editors of b92,
The title is misleading. 'Serbia has to to talk to Kosovo' is the proper title.
You can't say you should talk to your daddy if you want to go out. The proper way is you have to talk to your daddy. The phrase change is either intentional or B92 lacks of proper English editors.

I did NOT write the first comment regarding Kosovo obtaining EU candidate status.

Someone used my name. I would like to ask that person to STOP making jokes. Thank you.

Fine - Kosovo is not a country. Accept that and Serbia can join and so can Kosovo.

The EU can compromise. Kosovo can continue as an autonomous protectorate indefinitely.

The issue will never go away, and Kosovo as a so-called 'country' is not a permanent entity. EU or no EU.

Fuele thinks Serbia will give up Kosovo in exchange for EU. That is a double error.
1. Serbia will never give up Kosovo.
2. It is better for Serbia to stay out of the failing EU superstate.

Fuele should understand these two facts and then try again.

These facts constituted no obstacle for Cyprus accession to EU.
(dht, 18 September 2010 13:28)

Yes, and the EU got burned and got the lesson... that's why is not going to repeat it again

Great link, Who. Everyone that posts here should read the entire article. It is a truth that the Albanians here will deny, because they bought it, just like most of the gullible, uninformed west, that relies on, and takes as truth, news from propaganda outlets like CNN as fact.

"Sitting on billions tons of coal doesn't help Kosovars." - Ollie
No it does not, especially since the EU has taken a "Green Position" against using coal in the future to create energy, as it is dirty and a major pollutant. Complete towns, as one in Hungary, will become extinct because they survived entirely on coal production.

"EULEX works under the general framework of United Nations Security Resolution 1244 and has a unified chain of command to Brussels."

The forthcoming technical discussions will ultimately touch upon 1244.4, 1244.9.c and 1244.A2.6, 1244.A2.7.

Pristina has a bitter pill to swallow that status will never be discussed, only autonomic and technical issues.

Adequately? Like taking in account 1244? And the Serbian constitution? And the territorial integrity of Serbia?

Indeed, EU! It is about time!

And otherwise: if Kosovo, then also Kurdistan, Tibet, Abkhazia, ....

Ha Ha Ha, Genti, your English is poor, and you are complaining about B92 editors that speak the language fluently? The title is correct, by the way. Serbia should talk to Pristina, actually, because as far as I know, Kosovo is still legally Serbia land. If the Albanians claim KiM as theirs, where is the proof of ownership? Where is your UN seat Why are you represented by foreign nations, if you are independent? Just relax, and we shall see where the negotiations lead. In the meantime, try the Rosetta Stone English version, it will be a great help.

How many times have we said that Serbia will not join any day soon until it recognizes its neighbor?

You guys don't get it, EU plans on surrounding Serbia with NATO and EU members...the threat isn't military power anymore, it's actually economical.

Think about an embargo, or messing with exchange rates, if you think it's unpopular for Tadic to recognize Kosovo, think how much more unpopular his regime will be if poverty rate jumps up a mere 10%.

Considering the fact there is a direct correct correlation between unemployment rate & violent protests, the best way out for Serbia is to recognize Kosovo and quickly join the EU block.

1. Fuele:

"Fuele said that a candidate with an unresolved issue, or conflict, cannot expect to be allowed to join the EU."


2. dht:

Come on Mr. Fuele !

Ever heard about the "Accession of Cyprus to EU"-case, or the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus,
or 30000 - 40000 Turkish troops based in the north part of Cyprus ?

(see:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Cyprus)

These facts constituted no obstacle for Cyprus accession to EU.

It seems to me that the EU "representatives" (like Fuele, Ashton)are more representing the position of their own countries and less the position of the EU !

Come on Mr. Fuele, DO NOT DISCRIMINATE SERBIA !

The EU is a servant to 1244.

If the Albanians claim KiM as theirs, where is the proof of ownership? Where is your UN seat
(Kalifornija, 18 September 2010 19:39)

This is certainly the first time I see somebody ask for a proof of onwership in this context. But probably Kalifornija can show us where is the proof of ownership of Serbia ? Does Serbia have a deed for its territory signed by ... hmm, don't know, but Kalifornija should be able to clarify.

And please don't come back with stupidities like the UN seat is the proof. States have been around long before UN even existed, and still today not all of them are UN members.

"-- And not every active member in this fabulous club agrees with the same rules over Kosovo. 5 outright refuse to recognize it"

Very true, the problem for Serbia however is that those 5 are not the "big shots", who determine the overall policy and direction.

This matter has been lurking behind the corner... although earlier the EU convinced Serbia about the opposite. So, what's up now when EU has openly thrown previous statements to garbage and changed its policy?

First of all, EU still doesn't talk about Serbia having to recognize Kosovo. But as they demand Serbia to do this in practice if not in letter, it sure is time now to think well about future.

Before expressing my thoughts about what's best for Serbia I'll put down a fact or four:

1. Serbia must let its citizens to voice their wish about future, thru a referendum that is preceded with honest and diverse research information.

2. Citizens have no absolute obligation toward any final solution.

3. Majority of Serbian citizens don't want a state together with Kosovo Albanians. They don't want Kosovo Albanians to flood to Serbian labour market. They don't want Kosovo Albanians to flood to state administration.

4. Kosovo's political and juridical condition and economic future lies with the EU. For that Kosovo needs Serbia's willingness to enter to the EU.

My suggestion in this situation:

Serbia admits the deception and expresses its condemnation to the EU. Serbia halts its EU candidacy process. Serbia announces view that Republika Srpska has rights to decide about its own future but that Serbia doesn't mix in the process.

Serbia aims to sign European Economic Area (EEA) agreement with the EU. Purpose is to enter EUs internal market and to participate in EU programmes and initiatives, in the fields of culture, education and research. EEA Serbia would belong to integrated European labour market, which grants free movement of workers, social security, health and safety at work, labour laws and recognition of diplomas.

Serbia would also participate in main elements of justice and home affairs cooperation through the Schengen and Dublin agreements. Justice and home Affairs (JHA) is very important area of political cooperation in the EU.

Through the EEA agreement Serbia would be as integrated in European policy and economy as any non-member state can be.

So, what is needed first is a thorough research of Serbia's best chances for economic progress and for building an uncorrupted modern society of protected civil rights.

Kosovo's problems are similar, although much tougher. If today's situation continues we will witness violent riots in 3 to 5 years. Without a change Kosovo will explode before 2020. Sitting on billions tons of coal doesn't help Kosovars.

1. Mark wrote:

"Yes, and the EU got burned and got the lesson... that's why is not going to repeat it again
(Mark, 18 September 2010 17:12)"


2. dht´s reply:

Mark, I am an EU citizen and we do not think that we did get burnt (by the accession of Cyprus).

Why don´t you tell us what you REALLY THINK:

You HOPE that this will not happen again.

Look, the EU had no problem with the accession of Cyprus despite the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and 30000 - 40000 Turkish troops based in the north part of Cyprus.

So, it would be grossly unfair if Serbia´s request for accession would be denied on grounds the EU considered as irrelevant in the "Accession of Cyprus"-case !

Serbia is dealing with Kosovo. The only problem is that the EU expects Serbia to do exactly what it says and to ignore reality. The reality is that Kosovo as an Albanian entity is not recognized universally; it has less than half of the world's nations recognizing it. Serbia may be willing to capitulate in some ways but it still has some areas that it won't cave in. All it wants is to negotiate and in the long run both parties will get a lot of what they want. It's that simple.

"The only problem is that the EU expects Serbia to do exactly what it says and to ignore reality. The reality is that Kosovo as an Albanian entity is not recognized universally; it has less than half of the world's nations recognizing it."
Daniel

Daniel, the EU is a club like the exclusive club of my small gated community. For the EU it is irrelevant what the rest of the world recognizes just like for my local club - who has its own rules for admissions - it is totally irrelevant what other clubs or communities are doing.

How many times have Albanian camp been right vs the Serbian ones? 100 times now, why do you people still think we are here to provoke you?
(Pejoni)
-
What other purpose do you have ?

Fuele says that a country with an unresolved problem cannot join the EU. But he is wrong: Germany could join though it had not resolved East-Germany? Germanies friend Coatia can join, though they do not execute Dayton-agreements. Even Kosovo can join the EU though they have not resolved any of their problems. Any country that does what Germany wants can join the holy Roman Europe..

"Dear Editors of b92,
The title is misleading. 'Serbia has to to talk to Kosovo' is the proper title.
You can't say you should talk to your daddy if you want to go out. The proper way is you have to talk to your daddy. The phrase change is either intentional or B92 lacks of proper English editors.
(genti, 18 September 2010 18:31) "

There's nothing wrong with the title - it's a quote of a statement made by a diplomat. Fuele is is simply being diplomatically polite, something he's paid to do. In any case, "dealing with the Kosovo issue" includes talking to the Prishtina authorities, but obviously is not restricted to that.

Look, the EU had no problem with the accession of Cyprus despite the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and 30000 - 40000 Turkish troops based in the north part of Cyprus.

So, it would be grossly unfair if Serbia´s request for accession would be denied on grounds the EU considered as irrelevant in the "Accession of Cyprus"-case !
(dht, 18 September 2010 19:37)

n-cyprus isnt recognized by any EU member state or USA! kosovo is recognized by 22 of 27 EU member states! it is very clear now that serbia cannot join the EU or NATO without recognizing kosovo.and dont tell my that serbia donst need to join NATO first to join the EU look at all former eastern (communist) states that are now EU members ALL have joined first NATO than EU!

"For the EU it is irrelevant what the rest of the world recognizes just like for my local club - who has its own rules for admissions - it is totally irrelevant what other clubs or communities are doing." (Joe)

-- And not every active member in this fabulous club agrees with the same rules over Kosovo. 5 outright refuse to recognize it, and I'm sure a handful of coutries that have wouldn't be opposed to cutting a deal with Belgrade in order to move forward. I'd even be surprised to see what Committee Chair Germany says/offers in order to reach consensus.

Mark, I am an EU citizen and we do not think that we did get burnt (by the accession of Cyprus).

Why don´t you tell us what you REALLY THINK:

You HOPE that this will not happen again.

Look, the EU had no problem with the accession of Cyprus despite the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and 30000 - 40000 Turkish troops based in the north part of Cyprus.

So, it would be grossly unfair if Serbia´s request for accession would be denied on grounds the EU considered as irrelevant in the "Accession of Cyprus"-case !

(dht, 18 September 2010 19:37)


What I hope is irrelevant since I’m not the decision maker on the matter. EU had no problem to admit Cyprus, precisely because it was short sighted like you and failed to see the larger and long term picture which includes Turkey’s bid to join the EU. Now EU-Turkey relations, which are certainly far more important than a small island in the Aegean sea, are hostage to the N. Cyprus issue. As an “EU Citizen”, have you heard about negotiations on Turkey’s EU accession being blocked on certain chapters and who has blocked them and why ? By admitting Cyprus without solving first the N. Cyprus issue, the EU foolishly made the Cyprus-Turkey conflict an EU-Turkey conflict, and I don’t see the benefit for the EU with importing a conflict with an important country like Turkey.

Now, I don’t except other EU members to publically say to Cyprus that we did an error to admit you; it’s too late. But they are not going to repeat it again. And here is why. Imagine that Serbia were admitted to the EU before Kosovo and then vetoed Kosovo’s admission. That would cause big headaches for the EU members which have recognized Kosovo and EU is never going to complete the membership of the Western Balkans. Why should they put themselves in that position ? After all the headaches the Russian veto in the UN caused, why should they create a new veto with their own hands, now within the EU ?

I know my friend, it may or may not feel fair. But these things are not a matter of fairness. These are a matter of realpolitik. So based on rational analysis, Serbia and Kosovo will be admitted on the same time in the EU, or a mechanism will be found for Serbia to be admitted first but without the possibility to veto Kosovo’s admission later.

My or your hopes/dreams are then another matter. In any case they don’t count since it’s not us who make the decisions.

"My or your hopes/dreams are then another matter. In any case they don’t count since it’s not us who make the decisions.
(Mark, 19 September 2010 03:06)"

Has anybody alleged that my/your/our opinion/dreams/hope count in making the decision about Serbia´s entry into EU ???

1.
"it is very clear now that serbia cannot join the EU or NATO without recognizing kosovo.(mijari, 19 September 2010 10:49)"

-> If this would be true, it would be clear, that Serbia will not join the EU.

Since Serbia cannot recognize "Kosova" without amending the Serbian constitution.

A two-third-majority of all deputies is required for such
amendment, such majority does not and will not exist.

I think the diplomats of the EU member states (including those which are recognizing "Kosova") are aware of this constitutional law issue,
nevertheless, they encourage
Serbia to continue its efforts.

This means, the non-recognition of "Kosova" itself does not constitute an obstacle.


2.
"and dont tell my that serbia donst need to join NATO first to join the EU look at all former eastern (communist) states that are now EU members ALL have joined first NATO than EU!
(mijari, 19 September 2010 10:49)"

It is obvious that Serbia need not join NATO, because nobody ever requested Serbia to do so.

well I´d put it quite the opposite way:

if the EU doesn´t show an adequate approach in regard to Serbia´s territorial integrity, they won´t get Serbia "on board".

it´s that simple.

they need Serbia more than Serbia needs them.

I ´d say that some in the EU-admin still haven´t figured out what their real interests are in south-eastern Europe.

otherwise they would not support a little k-albanian creation on southern-serbian territory.

because: Serbia will prevail, and the others can only chose to be on one side or the other.

last but not least, who cares what these irrelevant EU-Stefan´s and Katherine´s or who else say...

we are the one´s who will take over.

"...imagine that Serbia were admitted to the EU before Kosovo and then vetoed Kosovo’s admission..."

Imagine as much as you want. Due to the Lisbon Treaty, Enlargement becomes QMV, so no more vetos by single member states like those lovely slovenians who used it to blackmail Croatia to get more coast line even though when bother are in the EU there will be no restrictions!

Don't expect that Serbia will get anything in return. They will squeeze Serbia more until Serbia recognizes Kosovo, will let go of Presevo and Vojvodina.
Serbia gets punished for having the audacity to stand up against the West and protect it sovereignty. Serbia will lose everything and will get nothing, just to please the EU with their illusions of happy multicultural societies while it was Yugoslavia that was multicultural and multireligious while whole neighborhoods in big cities in the EU have become no go areas for autochtonous people and EU countries are faced with right wing parties winning elections.
The EU has Serbia by the balls. They will punish Serbia for their own failures (EU) of the 90s and their own impotence to stand up against the US. I am from the EU and ashamed how Serbia is treated.

"Serbia should deal with Kosovo issue"
or...
CATILINA!!! Really...

dht says
Since Serbia cannot recognize "Kosova" without amending the Serbian constitution.

A two-third-majority of all deputies is required for such
amendment, such majority does not and will not exist.

I think the diplomats of the EU member states (including those which are recognizing "Kosova") are aware of this constitutional law issue,
nevertheless, they encourage
Serbia to continue its efforts.

This means, the non-recognition of "Kosova" itself does not constitute an obstacle.


or the EU does not consider overiding the Serbian Constitution as a formidable obstacle as you do.

Has anybody alleged that my/your/our opinion/dreams/hope count in making the decision about Serbia´s entry into EU ???
(dht, 19 September 2010 13:53)

Well, you mentioned my "hope" about that issue... I thought you were saying things relevant to the discussion, that's why I addressed it.

But if you are now saying that it was not relevant to the discussion, that's fine, I apologize for speaking about it. Just make sure in the future you write things that are relevant to the discussion, or just label as "irrelevant" those that aren't so we can skip that.

"it is very clear now that serbia cannot join the EU or NATO without recognizing kosovo.(mijari, 19 September 2010 10:49)"

-> If this would be true, it would be clear, that Serbia will not join the EU.

Since Serbia cannot recognize "Kosova" without amending the Serbian constitution.

A two-third-majority of all deputies is required for such
amendment, such majority does not and will not exist.

I think the diplomats of the EU member states (including those which are recognizing "Kosova") are aware of this constitutional law issue,
A) nevertheless, they encourage Serbia to continue its efforts.

B) This means, the non-recognition of "Kosova" itself does not constitute an obstacle.
(dht, 19 September 2010 14:20)

Wow that’s a big gap in your thought process as you go from A to B without saying why. I could say instead of going from A to B, it could go from A to C, where C=“This means, the non-recognition of "Kosova" means no-EU for Serbia”. I know shortcuts are nice, but you need some reasoning.

last but not least, who cares what these irrelevant EU-Stefan´s and Katherine´s or who else say...
(Jovan, 20 September 2010 15:00)

that's precisely the thought process of the Serbia's diplomacy that made Kosovo's independence possible.

Instead, imagine if Serbia had cared about Europe (instead of Russia) and had become an EU member before 2008. Would Kosovo have ever declared independence ?

Kosovo will probably obtain EU candidate status in the spring of 2012 before the parliamentary elections in Serbia

I did NOT write the first comment regarding Kosovo obtaining EU candidate status.

Someone used my name. I would like to ask that person to STOP making jokes. Thank you.

Well it doesn't get much clearer then that. Forget about the EU and fight for what we believe in. Tadic and co should not dare to recognize the theft of Kosovo in exchange for EU membership. We need to see that the alternative to the EU is Russia and the entire eastern block. Forget about hypocrites in the west. They want nothing but the destruction of our people.

Fuele said that a candidate with an unresolved issue, or conflict, cannot expect to be allowed to join the EU

hm,I think I told you so long ago.

Adequately? Like taking in account 1244? And the Serbian constitution? And the territorial integrity of Serbia?

Indeed, EU! It is about time!

And otherwise: if Kosovo, then also Kurdistan, Tibet, Abkhazia, ....

To all Albanians,

Stop dreaming about joining the EU.

Albania and Kosovo will probably join the EU in the year 3000. HA HA HA!!!!!!!!

Fuele thinks Serbia will give up Kosovo in exchange for EU. That is a double error.
1. Serbia will never give up Kosovo.
2. It is better for Serbia to stay out of the failing EU superstate.

Fuele should understand these two facts and then try again.

Fine - Kosovo is not a country. Accept that and Serbia can join and so can Kosovo.

The EU can compromise. Kosovo can continue as an autonomous protectorate indefinitely.

The issue will never go away, and Kosovo as a so-called 'country' is not a permanent entity. EU or no EU.

I truly think that they (the EU) should lay it out straight forward for Serbia right away, "Unless you recognise Kosovo" you will remain where you are...in a pretty sad condition!
But I guess one step at a time is working quite well so far!

Well, Mircea did state previously that Serbia can only join the EU no earlier than 2020 -- so she can afford to keep the Kosovo issue on the back burner until 2020. Right?

Ha Ha Ha, Genti, your English is poor, and you are complaining about B92 editors that speak the language fluently? The title is correct, by the way. Serbia should talk to Pristina, actually, because as far as I know, Kosovo is still legally Serbia land. If the Albanians claim KiM as theirs, where is the proof of ownership? Where is your UN seat Why are you represented by foreign nations, if you are independent? Just relax, and we shall see where the negotiations lead. In the meantime, try the Rosetta Stone English version, it will be a great help.

"I truly think that they (the EU) should lay it out straight forward for Serbia right away, "Unless you recognise Kosovo" you will remain where you are...in a pretty sad condition!
But I guess one step at a time is working quite well so far!
(burho, 18 September 2010, 11:20)"

Are you speaking for those 5 EU members that refused to recognize "Kosova"?

How many times have Albanian camp been right vs the Serbian ones? 100 times now, why do you people still think we are here to provoke you?

The EU is a servant to 1244.

Great link, Who. Everyone that posts here should read the entire article. It is a truth that the Albanians here will deny, because they bought it, just like most of the gullible, uninformed west, that relies on, and takes as truth, news from propaganda outlets like CNN as fact.

"EU Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fuele told Reuters that Serbia cannot join the EU if it does not adequately deal with the issue of Kosovo."

-- Fine. Do what you have to do: partition, cantonize, daytonize, protectorize, or jazzercise. Albanians stay on their side of the fence, Serbs stay on theirs, and everyone moves forward.

Dear Editors of b92,
The title is misleading. 'Serbia has to to talk to Kosovo' is the proper title.
You can't say you should talk to your daddy if you want to go out. The proper way is you have to talk to your daddy. The phrase change is either intentional or B92 lacks of proper English editors.

This matter has been lurking behind the corner... although earlier the EU convinced Serbia about the opposite. So, what's up now when EU has openly thrown previous statements to garbage and changed its policy?

First of all, EU still doesn't talk about Serbia having to recognize Kosovo. But as they demand Serbia to do this in practice if not in letter, it sure is time now to think well about future.

Before expressing my thoughts about what's best for Serbia I'll put down a fact or four:

1. Serbia must let its citizens to voice their wish about future, thru a referendum that is preceded with honest and diverse research information.

2. Citizens have no absolute obligation toward any final solution.

3. Majority of Serbian citizens don't want a state together with Kosovo Albanians. They don't want Kosovo Albanians to flood to Serbian labour market. They don't want Kosovo Albanians to flood to state administration.

4. Kosovo's political and juridical condition and economic future lies with the EU. For that Kosovo needs Serbia's willingness to enter to the EU.

My suggestion in this situation:

Serbia admits the deception and expresses its condemnation to the EU. Serbia halts its EU candidacy process. Serbia announces view that Republika Srpska has rights to decide about its own future but that Serbia doesn't mix in the process.

Serbia aims to sign European Economic Area (EEA) agreement with the EU. Purpose is to enter EUs internal market and to participate in EU programmes and initiatives, in the fields of culture, education and research. EEA Serbia would belong to integrated European labour market, which grants free movement of workers, social security, health and safety at work, labour laws and recognition of diplomas.

Serbia would also participate in main elements of justice and home affairs cooperation through the Schengen and Dublin agreements. Justice and home Affairs (JHA) is very important area of political cooperation in the EU.

Through the EEA agreement Serbia would be as integrated in European policy and economy as any non-member state can be.

So, what is needed first is a thorough research of Serbia's best chances for economic progress and for building an uncorrupted modern society of protected civil rights.

Kosovo's problems are similar, although much tougher. If today's situation continues we will witness violent riots in 3 to 5 years. Without a change Kosovo will explode before 2020. Sitting on billions tons of coal doesn't help Kosovars.

"EULEX works under the general framework of United Nations Security Resolution 1244 and has a unified chain of command to Brussels."

The forthcoming technical discussions will ultimately touch upon 1244.4, 1244.9.c and 1244.A2.6, 1244.A2.7.

Pristina has a bitter pill to swallow that status will never be discussed, only autonomic and technical issues.

1. Fuele:

"Fuele said that a candidate with an unresolved issue, or conflict, cannot expect to be allowed to join the EU."


2. dht:

Come on Mr. Fuele !

Ever heard about the "Accession of Cyprus to EU"-case, or the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus,
or 30000 - 40000 Turkish troops based in the north part of Cyprus ?

(see:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Cyprus)

These facts constituted no obstacle for Cyprus accession to EU.

It seems to me that the EU "representatives" (like Fuele, Ashton)are more representing the position of their own countries and less the position of the EU !

Come on Mr. Fuele, DO NOT DISCRIMINATE SERBIA !

How many times have we said that Serbia will not join any day soon until it recognizes its neighbor?

You guys don't get it, EU plans on surrounding Serbia with NATO and EU members...the threat isn't military power anymore, it's actually economical.

Think about an embargo, or messing with exchange rates, if you think it's unpopular for Tadic to recognize Kosovo, think how much more unpopular his regime will be if poverty rate jumps up a mere 10%.

Considering the fact there is a direct correct correlation between unemployment rate & violent protests, the best way out for Serbia is to recognize Kosovo and quickly join the EU block.

"For the EU it is irrelevant what the rest of the world recognizes just like for my local club - who has its own rules for admissions - it is totally irrelevant what other clubs or communities are doing." (Joe)

-- And not every active member in this fabulous club agrees with the same rules over Kosovo. 5 outright refuse to recognize it, and I'm sure a handful of coutries that have wouldn't be opposed to cutting a deal with Belgrade in order to move forward. I'd even be surprised to see what Committee Chair Germany says/offers in order to reach consensus.

Adequately? Like taking in account 1244? And the Serbian constitution? And the territorial integrity of Serbia?

Indeed, EU! It is about time!

And otherwise: if Kosovo, then also Kurdistan, Tibet, Abkhazia, ....
(Ron, 18 September 2010 15:39)
I must have been sleeping the last few days, when did these places start wanting to join the EU?

"The only problem is that the EU expects Serbia to do exactly what it says and to ignore reality. The reality is that Kosovo as an Albanian entity is not recognized universally; it has less than half of the world's nations recognizing it."
Daniel

Daniel, the EU is a club like the exclusive club of my small gated community. For the EU it is irrelevant what the rest of the world recognizes just like for my local club - who has its own rules for admissions - it is totally irrelevant what other clubs or communities are doing.

"Sitting on billions tons of coal doesn't help Kosovars." - Ollie
No it does not, especially since the EU has taken a "Green Position" against using coal in the future to create energy, as it is dirty and a major pollutant. Complete towns, as one in Hungary, will become extinct because they survived entirely on coal production.

1. Mark wrote:

"Yes, and the EU got burned and got the lesson... that's why is not going to repeat it again
(Mark, 18 September 2010 17:12)"


2. dht´s reply:

Mark, I am an EU citizen and we do not think that we did get burnt (by the accession of Cyprus).

Why don´t you tell us what you REALLY THINK:

You HOPE that this will not happen again.

Look, the EU had no problem with the accession of Cyprus despite the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and 30000 - 40000 Turkish troops based in the north part of Cyprus.

So, it would be grossly unfair if Serbia´s request for accession would be denied on grounds the EU considered as irrelevant in the "Accession of Cyprus"-case !

"Dear Editors of b92,
The title is misleading. 'Serbia has to to talk to Kosovo' is the proper title.
You can't say you should talk to your daddy if you want to go out. The proper way is you have to talk to your daddy. The phrase change is either intentional or B92 lacks of proper English editors.
(genti, 18 September 2010 18:31) "

There's nothing wrong with the title - it's a quote of a statement made by a diplomat. Fuele is is simply being diplomatically polite, something he's paid to do. In any case, "dealing with the Kosovo issue" includes talking to the Prishtina authorities, but obviously is not restricted to that.

These facts constituted no obstacle for Cyprus accession to EU.
(dht, 18 September 2010 13:28)

Yes, and the EU got burned and got the lesson... that's why is not going to repeat it again

"My or your hopes/dreams are then another matter. In any case they don’t count since it’s not us who make the decisions.
(Mark, 19 September 2010 03:06)"

Has anybody alleged that my/your/our opinion/dreams/hope count in making the decision about Serbia´s entry into EU ???

Diana Johnstone Says it all:

"In its dealings with the Western powers, recent Serbian diplomacy has displayed all the perspicacity of a rabbit cornered by a rattlesnake. After some helpless spasms of movement, the poor creature lets itself be eaten."
http://www.counterpunch.org/johnstone09172010.html

How many times have Albanian camp been right vs the Serbian ones? 100 times now, why do you people still think we are here to provoke you?
(Pejoni)
-
What other purpose do you have ?

Look, the EU had no problem with the accession of Cyprus despite the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and 30000 - 40000 Turkish troops based in the north part of Cyprus.

So, it would be grossly unfair if Serbia´s request for accession would be denied on grounds the EU considered as irrelevant in the "Accession of Cyprus"-case !
(dht, 18 September 2010 19:37)

n-cyprus isnt recognized by any EU member state or USA! kosovo is recognized by 22 of 27 EU member states! it is very clear now that serbia cannot join the EU or NATO without recognizing kosovo.and dont tell my that serbia donst need to join NATO first to join the EU look at all former eastern (communist) states that are now EU members ALL have joined first NATO than EU!

Serbia is dealing with Kosovo. The only problem is that the EU expects Serbia to do exactly what it says and to ignore reality. The reality is that Kosovo as an Albanian entity is not recognized universally; it has less than half of the world's nations recognizing it. Serbia may be willing to capitulate in some ways but it still has some areas that it won't cave in. All it wants is to negotiate and in the long run both parties will get a lot of what they want. It's that simple.

1.
"it is very clear now that serbia cannot join the EU or NATO without recognizing kosovo.(mijari, 19 September 2010 10:49)"

-> If this would be true, it would be clear, that Serbia will not join the EU.

Since Serbia cannot recognize "Kosova" without amending the Serbian constitution.

A two-third-majority of all deputies is required for such
amendment, such majority does not and will not exist.

I think the diplomats of the EU member states (including those which are recognizing "Kosova") are aware of this constitutional law issue,
nevertheless, they encourage
Serbia to continue its efforts.

This means, the non-recognition of "Kosova" itself does not constitute an obstacle.


2.
"and dont tell my that serbia donst need to join NATO first to join the EU look at all former eastern (communist) states that are now EU members ALL have joined first NATO than EU!
(mijari, 19 September 2010 10:49)"

It is obvious that Serbia need not join NATO, because nobody ever requested Serbia to do so.

Fuele says that a country with an unresolved problem cannot join the EU. But he is wrong: Germany could join though it had not resolved East-Germany? Germanies friend Coatia can join, though they do not execute Dayton-agreements. Even Kosovo can join the EU though they have not resolved any of their problems. Any country that does what Germany wants can join the holy Roman Europe..

If the Albanians claim KiM as theirs, where is the proof of ownership? Where is your UN seat
(Kalifornija, 18 September 2010 19:39)

This is certainly the first time I see somebody ask for a proof of onwership in this context. But probably Kalifornija can show us where is the proof of ownership of Serbia ? Does Serbia have a deed for its territory signed by ... hmm, don't know, but Kalifornija should be able to clarify.

And please don't come back with stupidities like the UN seat is the proof. States have been around long before UN even existed, and still today not all of them are UN members.

"-- And not every active member in this fabulous club agrees with the same rules over Kosovo. 5 outright refuse to recognize it"

Very true, the problem for Serbia however is that those 5 are not the "big shots", who determine the overall policy and direction.

Mark, I am an EU citizen and we do not think that we did get burnt (by the accession of Cyprus).

Why don´t you tell us what you REALLY THINK:

You HOPE that this will not happen again.

Look, the EU had no problem with the accession of Cyprus despite the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and 30000 - 40000 Turkish troops based in the north part of Cyprus.

So, it would be grossly unfair if Serbia´s request for accession would be denied on grounds the EU considered as irrelevant in the "Accession of Cyprus"-case !

(dht, 18 September 2010 19:37)


What I hope is irrelevant since I’m not the decision maker on the matter. EU had no problem to admit Cyprus, precisely because it was short sighted like you and failed to see the larger and long term picture which includes Turkey’s bid to join the EU. Now EU-Turkey relations, which are certainly far more important than a small island in the Aegean sea, are hostage to the N. Cyprus issue. As an “EU Citizen”, have you heard about negotiations on Turkey’s EU accession being blocked on certain chapters and who has blocked them and why ? By admitting Cyprus without solving first the N. Cyprus issue, the EU foolishly made the Cyprus-Turkey conflict an EU-Turkey conflict, and I don’t see the benefit for the EU with importing a conflict with an important country like Turkey.

Now, I don’t except other EU members to publically say to Cyprus that we did an error to admit you; it’s too late. But they are not going to repeat it again. And here is why. Imagine that Serbia were admitted to the EU before Kosovo and then vetoed Kosovo’s admission. That would cause big headaches for the EU members which have recognized Kosovo and EU is never going to complete the membership of the Western Balkans. Why should they put themselves in that position ? After all the headaches the Russian veto in the UN caused, why should they create a new veto with their own hands, now within the EU ?

I know my friend, it may or may not feel fair. But these things are not a matter of fairness. These are a matter of realpolitik. So based on rational analysis, Serbia and Kosovo will be admitted on the same time in the EU, or a mechanism will be found for Serbia to be admitted first but without the possibility to veto Kosovo’s admission later.

My or your hopes/dreams are then another matter. In any case they don’t count since it’s not us who make the decisions.

Don't expect that Serbia will get anything in return. They will squeeze Serbia more until Serbia recognizes Kosovo, will let go of Presevo and Vojvodina.
Serbia gets punished for having the audacity to stand up against the West and protect it sovereignty. Serbia will lose everything and will get nothing, just to please the EU with their illusions of happy multicultural societies while it was Yugoslavia that was multicultural and multireligious while whole neighborhoods in big cities in the EU have become no go areas for autochtonous people and EU countries are faced with right wing parties winning elections.
The EU has Serbia by the balls. They will punish Serbia for their own failures (EU) of the 90s and their own impotence to stand up against the US. I am from the EU and ashamed how Serbia is treated.

"Serbia should deal with Kosovo issue"
or...
CATILINA!!! Really...

"...imagine that Serbia were admitted to the EU before Kosovo and then vetoed Kosovo’s admission..."

Imagine as much as you want. Due to the Lisbon Treaty, Enlargement becomes QMV, so no more vetos by single member states like those lovely slovenians who used it to blackmail Croatia to get more coast line even though when bother are in the EU there will be no restrictions!

well I´d put it quite the opposite way:

if the EU doesn´t show an adequate approach in regard to Serbia´s territorial integrity, they won´t get Serbia "on board".

it´s that simple.

they need Serbia more than Serbia needs them.

I ´d say that some in the EU-admin still haven´t figured out what their real interests are in south-eastern Europe.

otherwise they would not support a little k-albanian creation on southern-serbian territory.

because: Serbia will prevail, and the others can only chose to be on one side or the other.

last but not least, who cares what these irrelevant EU-Stefan´s and Katherine´s or who else say...

we are the one´s who will take over.

dht says
Since Serbia cannot recognize "Kosova" without amending the Serbian constitution.

A two-third-majority of all deputies is required for such
amendment, such majority does not and will not exist.

I think the diplomats of the EU member states (including those which are recognizing "Kosova") are aware of this constitutional law issue,
nevertheless, they encourage
Serbia to continue its efforts.

This means, the non-recognition of "Kosova" itself does not constitute an obstacle.


or the EU does not consider overiding the Serbian Constitution as a formidable obstacle as you do.

Has anybody alleged that my/your/our opinion/dreams/hope count in making the decision about Serbia´s entry into EU ???
(dht, 19 September 2010 13:53)

Well, you mentioned my "hope" about that issue... I thought you were saying things relevant to the discussion, that's why I addressed it.

But if you are now saying that it was not relevant to the discussion, that's fine, I apologize for speaking about it. Just make sure in the future you write things that are relevant to the discussion, or just label as "irrelevant" those that aren't so we can skip that.

"it is very clear now that serbia cannot join the EU or NATO without recognizing kosovo.(mijari, 19 September 2010 10:49)"

-> If this would be true, it would be clear, that Serbia will not join the EU.

Since Serbia cannot recognize "Kosova" without amending the Serbian constitution.

A two-third-majority of all deputies is required for such
amendment, such majority does not and will not exist.

I think the diplomats of the EU member states (including those which are recognizing "Kosova") are aware of this constitutional law issue,
A) nevertheless, they encourage Serbia to continue its efforts.

B) This means, the non-recognition of "Kosova" itself does not constitute an obstacle.
(dht, 19 September 2010 14:20)

Wow that’s a big gap in your thought process as you go from A to B without saying why. I could say instead of going from A to B, it could go from A to C, where C=“This means, the non-recognition of "Kosova" means no-EU for Serbia”. I know shortcuts are nice, but you need some reasoning.

last but not least, who cares what these irrelevant EU-Stefan´s and Katherine´s or who else say...
(Jovan, 20 September 2010 15:00)

that's precisely the thought process of the Serbia's diplomacy that made Kosovo's independence possible.

Instead, imagine if Serbia had cared about Europe (instead of Russia) and had become an EU member before 2008. Would Kosovo have ever declared independence ?