LOCAL PRESS
Vucic: Albanians do not want compromise (B92/RTS/RTV)
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic told the press that at the special government session, which he himself also attended, three topics were key – Kosovo and Metohija, GDP and the pandemic. Since he is authorized to conduct the political dialogue with the representatives of the provisional institutions in Pristina, he informed the government about the course of the dialogue. Speaking about the resolution of the Kosovo issue, Vucic said that Serbia cannot accept that those with whom it is discussing this do not fulfill their obligations from the previous agreements. “They committed to the Community of Serb Municipalities (ZSO), it is necessary that they fulfill issues regarding regional police and they cannot invent new agreements,” said Vucic. The Albanians do not want a compromise solution and the only thing they talk about is mutual recognition, said Vucic.
Vucic: It remains to be seen how much we lost with the death of Amfilohije (RTS/Tanjug)
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said on Saturday evening that many lessons can be learned from the work of Bishop Amfilohije, and especially in recent years, and it can be understood that only with unity and togetherness can the Serbian people achieve everything. When asked by journalists whether the death of the Bishop could and to what extent affect the position of the Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC), and indirectly the position of the Serb people in Montenegro, he said that it remains to be seen how much we lost with the death of the bishop, an otherwise great and charismatic man. “This is a great loss both for the SPC and the Montenegrin-Littoral Montenegro,” said Vucic. He expects, as he points out, that the church, well led by Patriarch Irinej and other bishops, will be able to successfully raise the energy of the Serb people and the desire to remain on its own and live in unique relations with its people in all parts of former Yugoslavia. Serbia and Montenegro must be close to each other, to cooperate with each other. Asked whether he thinks that all circles in Montenegro will understand that his presence at the funeral of the Bishop will be important for even better relations between Serbia and Montenegro, as Bishop Joanikije thinks, Vucic said that there are always more interpretations. He says that he would like most not to say a single word, not to speak at the funeral. “To pay respects, to visit the Serbian house and return to Belgrade…” “It would be much better for me not to say a single word, because that would speak more about the nature of the visit, about the nature of respect,” said Vucic.
I disagree, but I respect DF’s decision
Vucic says he disagrees with the decision of the DF leader to support the minority government of Zdravko Krivokapic, but that he respects his decision. He told journalists in Podgorica that during the meeting DF leaders Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic had conveyed to him that they would support Zdravko Krivokapic’s government. “I replied: Super, you pass decisions, I am not interfering. And this shows how much Serbia has not influence. Had you asked me whether I would have supported this way, at any time, such a government, I would not have,” said Vucic.
Vucic, Rama and Zaev hold online ‘Mini-Schengen’ conference on Friday (RTS)
An online ‘Mini-Schengen’ conference was held by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and his North Macedonia counterpart Zoran Zaev to discuss cooperation to jointly battle the coronavirus outbreak and cooperation on ‘Mini-Schengen’ agreement. On this occasion, agreements were made for travelling between the countries with only a personal ID document, hospitalization of Covid-19 patients between countries as needed, as well as establishment of a unified labor market. Members of the initiative called on Sarajevo and Podgorica to join the initiative as soon as possible.
Positive dynamics in development of relations of Serbia, US (Tanjug/RTS)
Serbian Foreign Minister Nikola Selakovic met on Friday with US Ambassador to Serbia Anthony Godfrey. Selakovic highlighted the positive dynamics in the development of mutual relations, which will mark 140 years since its establishment next year. Selakovic and Godfrey exchanged opinions on further directions and modalities of strengthening cooperation, which has significant capacities for further development, and both sides expressed readiness to work together to further strengthen and deepen bilateral relations in all fields, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
Godfrey: Whoever wins elections, Serbia will remain important to Washington (B92/Beta)
US Ambassador to Serbia Anthony Godfrey said on Friday he was sure Serbia and the entire region would be still essential to Washington regardless of who would be the next US president.
He told B92 the US presidential elections on 3 November were exciting but added his country had almost 250 years of experience as a nation. “We continue to strive to our ideals, but I’m convinced in the power of our republic,” Godfrey said, adding the embassy in Belgrade he headed would continue to work on the development of the US-Serbia relations, regardless of the US elections outcome. Asked to describe the current relations between the two countries, he said they were excellent, but not good enough, adding they were going back to the level of closeness as they were before the time of late Slobodan Milosevic. Speaking about the problems in the relationship, Godfrey said he did not see them, but saw a lot of energy focused on solving the challenges. “That includes the unsolved relations between Serbia and Kosovo. It’s a difficult issue, but I hope we all can agree that everyone needs progress, prosperity and long-lasting stability,” the Ambassador said.
Dacic and Chen Bo: Strengthening parliamentary cooperation between Serbia and China (Tanjug/RTS)
Serbian parliament speaker Ivica Dacic received Chinese Ambassador to Serbia Chen Bo on Friday. Ambassador Chen Bo congratulated Dacic on his appointment as parliament speaker and wished him success in his new post. Thanking him for his personal contribution to the improvement of bilateral relations between Serbia and China during his time as foreign minister, Bo expressed her belief that the excellent cooperation will continue in this new position. Bo then presented Dacic with a letter of congratulations on his appointment from the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China Li Zhanshu. In his letter, Li Zhanshu points out that speaker Dacic has long advocated the development of Chinese-Serbian relations and cooperation and that his visit to China in February of this year, at a difficult time when the Chinese people combated the corona virus, was a great show of support to China. Li Zhanshu is ready to make concerted efforts with speaker Dacic to further intensify the cooperation between the Chinese National People’s Congress and the Serbian parliament. They noted the excellent relations between the two countries across the board and discussed the possibilities for strengthening parliamentary cooperation between Serbia and China.
Krusik worker dies, another injured after an explosion (RTS)
One Krusik worker died in the factory near Valjevo while another Krusik worker has been injured and hospitalized, the Serbian Defense Ministry announced. “As they carried out their regular tasks at the Holding Company Krusik Valjevo, on a warhead of an anti-tank missile, today at around 11 am at the Begova Voda range in the village of Zlataric near Valjevo, an explosion occurred that killed a Krusik worker, M.J., and injured worker M.P. who participated in the testing.” The injured worker was immediately transported to the Health Center in Valjevo, where he was hospitalized and given medical care.
Bajatovic removed from meeting with Mihajlovic (Beta)
Dusan Bajatovic, the Director of Srbijagas, was removed from a meeting with the Minister Zorana Mihajlovic over “disrespecting the institutions of the government of Serbia,” the Transportation and Infrastructure Ministry said on Saturday. Mihajlovic said that public companies from that sector will not be able to work as before, that she expects faster and more efficient work and that she expects the directors to behave responsibly, the statement said.
REGIONAL PRESS
Dodik: Croats planning to boycott 2022 general (Srna/TV Kurir)
Srna reports that Serb member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Milorad Dodik told TV Kurir that Croats are preparing themselves to boycott the general elections in two years, saying that he understands the Croats because it is decisive for them. Dodik also said that during his visit to Zagreb, Croatian President Zoran Milanovic and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic expressed concern with the positions of Croats in B&H and that they seek solutions regarding changes to the Law on Elections (of B&H). Asked if the third entity is possible in B&H, Dodik told it is if the Croats request it. Dodik further said that the talks in Zagreb were dedicated solely to the position of Croats in B&H, that Croatia neglected Croats in B&H, which is their own (Croats in B&H) fault because they voted in the referendum on independence of B&H on 1 March (1992), which is now returning to haunt them. Dodik stated that Zagreb rejected any possibility of talking to (Croat member of the Presidency of B&H) Zeljko Komsic, who is unwanted among the Croat community in B&H. Speaking about the visit to Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, which he paid with HDZ B&H leader Dragan Covic after the visit to Zagreb, Dodik said that the topic of talks in Belgrade was the situation in B&H and how one can help, and that Vucic has been trying to help the Federation of B&H (FB&H) the entire time, however the FB&H creates problem out of everything. Dodik went on to say that ‘they’ tried to kill Vucic in Srebrenica and that ‘they’ never provided answers “because there is a blockade and collaboration of Muslim and America-British services, who control who needs to do what”. Dodik reiterated that B&H without war and that only the RS can function. According to him, should Donald Trump win the US presidential election, there will be less interventionism, however should Joe Biden win, he (Biden) will bring back ‘a team’ that made their careers on lies about B&H.
Komsic reacts: It is good that Dodik revealed Covic’s policy (FTV)
Commenting on his own and HDZ B&H leader Dragan Covic’s visits to Zagreb and Belgrade respectively, Serb member of B&H Presidency and SNSD leader Milorad Dodik stated that the position of Croats in B&H and finding a solution to this problem were the main topics. Dodik said that the official Zagreb refused to hold talks with Croat member of B&H Presidency Zeljko Komsic. Dodik also revealed plans on Croats’ boycott of the general elections in B&H because of the Election Law of B&H. He added that Croats now get ready to boycott the general elections in two years and to radicalize the situation but that amending the Election Law of B&H would be a solution, noting that even the third entity in B&H is possible if Croats want that. Reacting to Dodik’s statements, Komsic said that it is good that Dodik revealed Covic’s policy although he has not said anything new. He warned that “the third entity in B&H or the Election Law of B&H retailored according to Covic’s needs represents a strategic interest of the policy of greater Serbia and ensuring this would be the beginning of separatism and destroying of the state” but that this will not happen. Komsic assessed that it is good that Dodik fully revealed the motives of Covic’s policy and that he also revealed a double game of the official Zagreb, so now nobody has the right to have doubts about Belgrade and Zagreb’s coordinated activities against B&H. “I thought that Covic masked as Dodik for a Halloween, when I read Dodik’s statement on boycott of the elections and dissolution of B&H in case the Election Law is not adopted in line with Covic’s desires. All jokes aside, Dodik said nothing new. The third entity or Election Law in line with Covic’s desires, which is one and the same thing, is the strategic interest of Greater-Serb policy. Enabling of this, would represent an introduction into separatism and dismantling of the state,” said Komsic.
RS government’s report to UNSC: Unlike RS, SDA never accepted Dayton compromise (RTRS)
The second part of the 24th report that the RS government sent to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reads that unlike the RS – that unreservedly accepted the Dayton agreement and it only demands implementation of the Dayton agreement the way it was written – the dominant Bosniak party, i.e. SDA never accepted the Dayton compromise. The report reads that, among other things, the declaration from September last year that openly called for a total abolition of the Dayton structure proved the aforementioned statement. According to the report, the call of SDA for “a regionalized state” named “the Republic of B&H” with three levels of power – the state level, the regional and the local levels – is nothing but a call for abolition of the RS and the FB&H that are the basic elements of the constitutional framework that prevents domination of one ethnicity in B&H. The report reads: “SDA’s call for the revival of the ‘Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina’ clearly shows that this party wants to abolish the B&H Constitution, which is the essential element of the Dayton agreement. The very foundation of the Dayton agreement represents the balance of interests established for the sake of peace in B&H, which is reflected in the two-entity confederal organization and the consociate administration of legitimate representatives of the three constituent peoples and the Others”. The report also underlined the need to elect Serbs and Croats at different posts, but argued that it is also important to prevent the Bosniak majority to persistently outvote them in institutions of B&H and the FB&H. According to the reporter, changes to the B&H Election Law are necessary in order to prevent one people from electing representatives of the other people in the B&H Presidency, the B&H House of Peoples and the FB&H House of Peoples. Finally, the report says that SDA took control over the B&H Central Election Commission (CEC) in an illegal way and thus, SDA is using the CEC for political purpose.
US Embassy: Status of B&H as state is not matter of opinion but rather fact established by international law (O kanal)
The US Embassy in B&H provided its comment on the latest announcement of Serb member of the B&H Presidency Milorad Dodik, who announced a new declaration in which Serbs and Croats would point to the manner in which B&H should function, and where dissolution would be seen as the only solution for failure to accept this joint declaration. In its comment, the US Embassy underlined that existence of any of the two entities completely depends on existence of B&H, where the status of B&H as a state is not a matter of opinion but rather a fact established by the international law. The comment reads: “Territorial integrity and sovereignty are guaranteed by the Dayton Peace Accords (DPA). Neither the DPA nor the Constitution of B&H provides a possibility for any of the entities to secede. Any action undertaken with the aim to dissolve B&H would represent violation of the DPA.”
Inzko: Mandates of current Mayors of Cities and Heads of Municipalities to last even after 1 November until newly-elected officials assume office (O kanal)
High Representative Valentin Inzko provided a response to the question of the FB&H Association of Municipalities and Cities, which asked whether the mandate of current Mayors of Cities and Heads of Municipalities will expire on 1 November and who will lead the local communities until the results of the upcoming local elections, scheduled for 15 November, are published. In his response, Inzko clarified that mandates of the current Mayors of Cities and Heads of Municipalities will last even after 1 November. The response reads that the directly elected local officials should be enabled to carry out their tasks and work until newly-elected officials assume their office. The HR’s stance is contrary to the B&H Central Election Commission (CEC)’s stance, according to which mandates of the local officials expire on 1 November given that the results of the 2016 local elections were verified and published on that date.
Dodik: Bishop Amfilohije united the Serb people (Srna)
The Serb member of the B&H Presidency Milorad Dodik said on Sunday that the late Bishop of the Metropolitanate of Montenegro and the Littoral Amfilohije united the Serb people, which was obvious during the liturgies that were organized in Montenegro. Bishop Amfilohije was laid to rest on Sunday in a ceremony attended by hundreds of people and mainly Serb dignitaries from the region. Presidency member Dodik was among them. “He often said when he came to the RS that the RS was baptized, that Serbia was half-baptized, and that Montenegro was still unbaptized,” Dodik said. He said that he believes Amfilohije saw at the end of his life how Serbs were united in their fight for their churches and monasteries in Montenegro after the government there passed a disputed law on religious property. According to him, that was obvious at Amfilohije’s funeral, where a huge number of people gathered despite the coronavirus pandemic. “I can only imagine how many would have come if that was not the case,” concluded Dodik, who attended the funeral of Metropolitan Amfilohije in Podgorica.
US Ambassador Kohorst: Croatia is an important ally (N1)
Ahead of the upcoming US election, N1 TV’s Ivana Dragicevic talked to US Ambassador to Croatia Robert Kohorst. Dragicevic and Kohorst talked about Croatia-US bilateral relations, projects supported by the US, the recent visit of Us Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, and other topics.
Who would have thought, it’s October, we are sitting in the garden, we have the pandemics. When you were arriving in Croatia, you know, if it was not in the wildest dreams of any of us in the world, so basically, how is the embassy coping with a pandemic?
Well, it’s been a strange nine months since the pandemic hit, but the embassy is doing well. But surprisingly, we are very active on many of the issues that relate to the partnership between Croatia and the United States. We’re doing social distancing, we’re wearing masks in the embassy. We’re going to A and B teams to separate the people. So, things are well, everybody’s healthy in the embassy and we’re open for business.
We are now, you know, just waiting for the elections in the United States. We saw the first debate, you were somehow critical, as everyone, because it was a really tough match, if I can say, we had the last one. What were your thoughts, you were watching it?
Well the first debate was messy, and we can do better. And I think both candidates did much better in the last debate. They answered the questions, they responded with their positions, and I think helped Americans decide who is their best candidate.
Talking about the US, and we will talk about of course bilateral relations with Croatia, but also its role in the region. In recent years people often talk about, you know, multi-polar world, geopolitics, being back in the game. And when they discuss this region, they say “Well, maybe US was a little bit out of it.” What would you say to them?
You know, I think they are partially right. We were a little bit out of it I think we took Croatia for granted, as a good partner. That’s turned around, we’ve seen in the last two years significant visits from top cabinet officials here to Croatia. We’re getting things done in terms of bilateral relationship, so to an extent we were a little bit delinquent for a while, and I think that’s been turned around.
People also look towards countries or their policies through the prism of who is running that country, in this case President Trump, the US, or some other countries. But US policy has always been very, how to say, clear, and on the same side. That was the message I remember 24 years ago when the delegation of Secretary of Trade Mr. Brown came to Dubrovnik and unfortunately we had this terrible tragedy happening, and it was also the same message of Secretary Pompeo when he arrived here – so that’s rule of law, free markets, and democracy. These are basically fundamental values that the US is pursuing in doing business. And in doing it’s, how to say, foreign policy, its embassies around the world. How would you say that this rule of law concerning the business side is going on in Croatia at the moment?
Well first of all, we do have common values, and that’s the most important part in any relationship to make it enduring. Both countries believe in freedom, prosperity, peace, individual liberties – so that’s really valuable. Croatia is a stable country in an important region of the world, and it’s a place where more and more Americans can do business, but Croatia still needs to make some reforms in their judiciary, in their rule of law, in the bureaucracy… But the country is working on it, and I feel optimistic that it is moving in the right direction. And I think we always have to step back and remember – the United States has been at this for 200 plus years, and we get it better – we don’t get it right perfectly, but we get it better every day. Croatia gets it better every day, but it’s only got 25 years. So, you know, I congratulate Croatia on the progress it has made, and strongly encourage the government to continue to make changes as quickly as possible.
You are a political appointee or political ambassador. But you came here with very clear agenda. When you arrived, you said, I want to, you know, do something more about the business, energy sector. I want to do something about visa waiver programme, and the double taxation agreement. We hear now – your mandate is coming to the end – that there has been significant progress on two of these subjects that are very important, that is the visa waiver program and double taxation. So are you satisfied?
You know I’m very encouraged without being completely satisfied. We’ve made great progress on visa waiver and double tax, probably even more so than I could have expected, it’s been terrific. I’m not fully satisfied because we’re not completed. So, making steps is very important, but now we need to not lose focus, we need to redouble our efforts to make sure we finish both projects. I think both of them can be done in the short term, that’s not in a month or two, it’s going to take a little longer, especially with the pandemic. But both sides are working aggressively and diligently to achieve these goals, and I’m very, very encouraged by that
You started your mandate with very harsh criticism towards Russia’s influence here, especially in the energy sector with Ina-Mol story. And we know how much of the emphasis the current administration is putting to energy security. From this initiative, Three Seas initiative, to making Europe, in a way, understand that energy policy is something very important Are you satisfied now with the LNG project and everything that US kind of was putting on the agenda here?
The US has been encouraging both the LNG terminal on Krk Island and the Three Seas initiative to become reality, but those are really European projects – the LNG terminal is funded almost half by the European Union and the other half by Croatia. The United States has been supporters both with some financial support, and other types of help for it. So, this is a, you know, a broad support in LNG, and it’s great that it’s going to come together and is supposed to open in January of 2021. When I came here, that was my number one mandate, to encourage Croatia to complete that project so I feel very satisfied that this has got a high likelihood of happening. The Three Seas has also been encouraged by President Trump and most recently by Secretary Pompeo. But again, that’s a European project, it’s not something that the US has a direct financial interest in, but we are a big supporter. Our DFC, which is one of our finance vehicles, has committed over a billion dollars to the Three Seas fund to help develop energy security and infrastructure projects. So we are big supporters of both, but they’re not our projects.
Concerning the, what you said, the financial obligations in multilateral forums, organizations or initiatives, we know that the conclusion of the wealth NATO summit was that all the countries have to put 2 percent of its GDP to defence issues. And President Trump was very strong about it, telling the Allies they need to do it. The military cooperation between Croatia and the US is very strong, we have, let’s say, good cooperation in that sense. So, what has been the response from the Croatian side?
Well, as you said, our military cooperation has been very strong over the years. In the last decade alone we’ve contributed more than $700 million worth of equipment and training to the Croatian military, so it becomes a true partnership, we provide financial support and training, Croatia has provided good support around the world and peacekeeping efforts and security in the region. So, we view this as a great partnership between the two of us. And we’re hopeful that we’ll continue on, we have every reason to be optimistic that our great cooperation will make this a safer place for everybody.
The first concours on buying military airplanes was kind of disaster because what happened with Israeli planes in US and US stance towards it. Now we have another one, and we know that you of course advocate strongly for F-16 as as a good bargain, or a good trade for Croatia. Secretary Pompeo of course said it’s a sovereign decision of any member state. Why do you think F-16 will be the thing for Croatia?
So, let me first correct the first part – I don’t view the first process as a disaster. It was a learning process, and nobody really lost any money or got hurt, there was some time delays, but the process was important, that the right answer was made. There wasn’t a clear agreement about the price and the terms. And so it was postponed and redone. So it’s got a much better process this time, and so I think the first step was a learning process, the second step is where Croatians will make a better decision. We of course are encouraging Croatia to acquire new F-16s. We believe it’s the finest fighter aircraft in the world. There are more than a thousand F-16s in Europe, so Croatia becomes part of that club. It’s not just about aircraft, it’s about the partnership and the interoperability throughout NATO and throughout Europe, and at the end of the day, we believe it’s the best value. Price is one component, but long term sustainability, great equipment, a partnership with the United States and with other countries that operate F-16s is all part of the package, and we hope that’ll be factored into the analysis on what is the best buy. But value is more important than just price.
Let’s do a little debrief of Secretary of State visit to Croatia. What was the, what was, like, the first point when you arranged his, you know, arrival here, what was that thing?
Well the first and most important step was to demonstrate to Croatia that this is a focal point for the administration, that Croatia is an important ally, and we want to recognise that by having the Secretary of State come. He has an extraordinarily busy schedule, there are hundreds of countries around the world, and he can only get to a handful of them, but he came to Croatia. So that was the most focal point, was to demonstrate that, and then he’ll let the rest of us work on the details. But he came here, he had very good things to say about it, he truly enjoyed his lunch with the foreign minister and further meeting with the Prime Minister. He and his wife got a nice tour of Dubrovnik, it was short, but it was… He told me it was really fabulous, he looked forward to coming back again someday. And, you know, I really think that he touched on all the topics that are important between our two countries, and is very supportive of the work that we’ve been doing together, and he looks forward to us completing some of the tasks.
The public, in a way, heard the words of our Prime Minister Plenkovic, which some describe it as maybe a little bit of cold shower, because he mentioned, for example, the Chinese that are building the Peljesac Bridge, and Croatia in a way didn’t announce its willingness to join this US initiative concerning security and digital infrastructure, especially 5G networks. So how was it seen in DC after that visit?
You know, the Peljesac Bridge is a construction project, it’s really not a Chinese investment in Croatia, and in fact is the opposite of an investment – it’s European and Croatian dollars being sent to China, and China bringing their own labour and their own materials here. So, if China wants to invest in here as the Secretary said, we welcome China to invest in any country as long as they do it in a transparent and honest way, and we’re happy to compete with any country in the world when it’s done on a level playing field. The Secretary want to caution Croatia and other countries around the world to be careful about your strategic infrastructure and who is involved in that, and do you trust them, and do you have confidence that they’ll truly be your partner when times are difficult.
Talking about geopolitics. We of course know that Russia, China, Turkey, are important players in this region, but US, basically, never left. We remember the role of the US in ending wars in the Balkans from ’95, ’99. And we now see some new initiatives from President Trump towards Kosovo-Serbia deal, in a way, and we heard Secretary Pompeo about, of course, always interest as a guarantee of the dates and peace agreement of US involvement in Bosnia and Herzegovina. So what can be expected in this period because we are now waiting for the elections in Bosnia?
Well, you know, the US has never left the region. We just haven’t emphasized that as much as we could, and part of that really is the fact that hasn’t been a big problem, there hasn’t been that. But now as there’s more conflict and more issues that need to be resolved, we’re trying to reassert our influence and our assistance to the region to solve some of these problems. So you’ll see the US coming here, get involved in more things, we really want to encourage the Croatians to continue to be a leader in this part of the world, and help solve the problems that continue to exist.
Talking about leadership, US always strongly advocated, we’ve mentioned at the beginning rule of law in the free market circumstances, but also the rule of law of the countries that its embassies were working on, you did a lot about gender inequality, LGBT rights, and things like that. Are you satisfied with the state of human rights in Croatia?
You know, I believe Croatia has a good record on human rights, certainly, its laws and constitution all promote equality and justice. But like most places, you can continually get better and deal with the remaining problems that are out there. And so overall I think Croatia has done a good job with human rights, but like everywhere, we’ve got to continue to fine tune it to make sure that we root out all problems of injustice.
Another thing, which was very important for you, I remember, I talked with the people who are responsible for that in State Department, is the restitution or returning the property of the victims of the Holocaust of the Jewish community. Are you satisfied with that?
Holocaust restitution is an ongoing process. It’s a very difficult issue. Very painful part of much of the history of Europe. And so, no we’re not entirely satisfied, we would like Croatia to do more. They are working on it right now, we’re having ongoing conversations about ways that the issue can be resolved, but it’s a process that’s going to take some time and we’re hopeful that Croatia will continue to keep the focus on getting it and do what’s right for people who suffered such injustice years ago.
What would you say is the thing that you wanted to do here but you didn’t finish, what you meant to do?
You know, when I came here they told me the number one task was Krk Island, so that’s done. Number two and three were visa waiver and tax treaty. Those aren’t done, but they’re in process. To encourage Croatia to continue to fulfil its 2 percent commitment in NATO, and Croatia has done that. So a lot of the things have been done. And so, I really would say that the focus would be to continuously progress in the business environment, Croatia is a safe place. It’s an educated population, it’s part of the EU, it’s a place where more American companies should do business, and I would really like to see the environment be more favourable. That being said, there are more than 100 US companies that do business here with 7,000 employees, and almost a billion dollars of investment capital. And so, that’s encouraging, that we do have a good base, but there should be more. And we also have a robust trade. We have almost $2 billion of trade between Croatia and the United States. And what’s interesting is that trade is about even between imports and exports, so both countries benefit. Other countries may have significant trade with Croatia, but it’s imbalanced where it’s mostly imports from the country into Croatia, which have much less value to the Croatian economy.
When are you leaving Zagreb? Do you know?
No, I don’t know. Most State Department employees work three years in a country and then move on. It’ll be three years for me in January of 2021. So I would expect sometime in the first quarter. I’ll go home. My wife and I have enjoyed this experience tremendously, Croatia has been a wonderful environment. The job is terrific, to represent my country, but it’s time to go home and play baseball with my grandson and play with my granddaughter, and get back and re-engage with our family in a much more daily method.
You said Croatia has to do more about, you know, making this business environment more open, and more transparent – that’s my word. If you were to leave diplomacy and if I was in position to engage or employ you as a consultant, what would be the points that you would advise to Croatia finally to change? We know how much obstacles we, we still do have.
Well, in addition to all the things we’ve talked about making structural changes, the one thing I would encourage Croatia to do, and that’s one thing they haven’t done as aggressively as I think they could. And that’s to go out and sell the country. It’s one thing they have a great environment, but you have to tell your customer about it. And I think Croatia could do a more aggressive job in hiring some people around the world to go out to America, to go out to other places, and sell the benefits of Croatia to them. Because people want to come here, but sometimes you don’t know what’s here.
And what are those benefits that it should sell?
Well, you know, you’ve got an educated workforce, you’ve got a safe country, you’ve got, geographically, a good location, you’re a gateway to the EU. Those are all valuable things for companies in lots of industries, whether it’s manufacturing or services. And so you’ve got the fundamental cores of a solid business. Just go out and tell people.
Talking about selling the country, in a way, are you satisfied with the image of the US in Croatia and in Europe?
Well, I think people throughout Croatia and throughout Europe recognize that US is the leading country in the world advocating peace and freedom and equality, and so to an extent we have common values, it’s really easy to have a good image. You know we in the US in the last couple of years have focused more on correcting some problems that existed in the past. The US needs better trade agreements, some of the trade agreements, as we’ve described, have not been fair, in our view, so we’re trying to renegotiate things to be more even between whether it’s with China or Russia or the EU. We want to have a balanced approach, because that’s the way partners have long term relationships, so that it’s fair for both sides. So the US is all about creating relationships, we just need to renegotiate some of the existing relationships.
Is the US interested in investing in tourism sector? We know that that was something that you were also putting emphasis on.
Well, yes, there are some American companies have come here. Some of them have complained that the bureaucracy makes it difficult. Some of your real estate laws and title issues make it difficult or, or untimely, compared to what it’s like in the United States. So there are some burdens to do it, but I have talked to a number of US companies that would like to come here and like to invest. It’s just, it’s just going to take some time.
Corruption?
You know, corruption is really all about transparency. And I would like to see more and more transparency here in transactions, and that will reduce corruption. You know, corruption exists everywhere to some degree. Croatia has some of it but it’s not a game breaker for people coming to invest here, but it’s something that every country needs to be attentive to. And when you find it, you need to take care of it and remove it.
All eyes will be on the US, on 3 November, of course, and people always speculate how will, or, in what sense, the foreign policy will change. We saw how Trump administration worked in terms of trade, which was very important of course, we are still waiting for the trade agreement between US and the EU, for example. And, of course, foreign policy towards the region. Do you think something fundamentally will change? If, of course, there will be a change of government?
You know, if there is a change in government, I don’t see a radical change in the US policies toward Croatia, much like when Donald Trump came in as president I don’t think there was a radical change in the policies between Croatia and the United States. Again, we go back to the fundamental values, and if they are there we will work out the details, we may disagree about policies and things that, while they’re important, they’re not the most critical aspect. It’s about do we believe in the same fundamental values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And I think both of our countries really want to do the same thing.
Krivokapic: Agreement on expert government has been confirmed (CdM)
The meeting of leaders of the winning coalitions has confirmed what we have agreed earlier about the expert government, tweeted Zdravko Krivokapic. “In coming days, I will inform the parties about my proposals for ministers in the expert government,” he announced. Leaders of DF, Black and White coalition and representatives of Peace is our nation coalition held a meeting with Zdravko Krivokapic. Dritan Abazovic, leader of URA, has said that the meeting was excellent and that the concept of expert government prevailed. “Prime minister-designate will tell the names soon. I expect the government without politicians. We have got high level of agreement,” Abazovic said after the meeting. Abazovic has stated that the concept of the expert government prevailed. According to him, all experts can find their place in ministry. Other participants in the meeting didn’t make any statements but instead announced joint statement. Participants of the meetings held a minute of silence in tribute to Metropolitan Amfilohije.
List of ministers is due next week (Dan)
Prime Minister-designate Zdravko Krivokapic will continue with his work regarding the formation of his cabinet in the next few days. We can expect to learn about the program of work and the list of ministers in a new government during next week, according to Dan daily.
The situation is somewhat better now following the Friday meeting of the leaders of the ruling blocs with Krivokapic, when they agreed on the concept of an experts government. Three blocs will back the new government – ‘For the Future of Montenegro’, ‘Peace is Our Nation’ and ‘Black on White’. It’s expected that the Albanian List 1 will back it as well. On the proposal of the Prime Minister-designate, the government will have only the prime minister, there won’t be deputy prime ministers, and there will be 12 government departments, which represents a major reconstruction, having in mind that we have 18 ministries now. One of the leaders of the Democratic Front, DF, Andrija Mandic, has said that the new govt will be transitional and reform-oriented, whereas the Prime Minister-designate proposed it to last 200 days, or at least a year. Mandic also noted that the August elections were not fair and free despite the opposition’s victory. Only such a government will get the support of the DF, Mandic told the public broadcaster, RTCG. In addition, he noted that no foreign embassy took part in the elections, and didn’t understand why they were doing it in the formation of the government.
“Today we have an independent Montenegro and several tycoons and embassies that want to set it up. That’s unacceptable.” The overthrow of the Djukanovic regime happened on 30 August, he added, but new challenges lie ahead. These are times of a new struggle, when tycoons of the Second Family want to take over Montenegro from the First one, and when we have to defend our country from the impact of foreign embassies. The Democratic Front will urge the new government to pay special attention to the fight against organized crime and corruption, according to Mandic. Another leader of the DF, Nebojsa Medojevic, also reacted, claiming that Prime Minister-designate takes all responsibility for the current situation in the country. According to him, the new government of experts, excluding politicians, will be weak and will have to negotiate on the majority concerning every single decision.
Funeral of Metropolitan Amfilohije (CdM)
Metropolitan of Montenegro and the Littoral Amfilohije was buried in the crypt of the Temple of Christ’s Resurrection in Podgorica. Several thousand citizens attended the funeral of the Metropolitan. Liturgy and requiem were served by the Patriarch Irinej. Numerous political leaders from the country and the region, Zdravko Krivokapic and Aleksa Becic, among others, paid their tribute to the Metropolitan. Academic, Matija Beckovic, delivered a speech as well as Bishop of Budimlje and Niksic, Joanikije. Liturgies and the funeral was attended also by Aleksandar Vucic, President of Serbia and Serbian member of the B&H Presidency Milorad Dodik. Bishop of Budimlje and Niksic, Joanikije, said that arrival of many important persons was a great consolation. “When we cry together, it’s much easier. Montenegro is crying with reason. But the crying will turn into joy,” Joanikije said. He said that Amfilohije has renewed Montenegro and its temples. “I was hoping that Amfilohije will honor my name at my funeral. But heavens have decided otherwise, although I know I will not be able to do that the way he would to that,” Matija Beckovic said. He said that with love and honesty, Amfilohije had prayed for Montenegro and Montenegrins to return to their dignity. As he said, he was a hero of Kosovo, a hero who used to bury martyrs of Kosovo with his bare hands. “The world has never seen such cry as “We defend our holy structures”. Montenegro is determined to heal itself,” Beckovic said. Krivokpaic, prime minister-designate, said in his speech that Amfilohije had united them all in faith and love. “Every meeting with you was a joy. And the one before 30 August was the special. That hug you gave me that night, I will remember as long as I live,” Krivokapic said. He stated that this was a great loss for the entire orthodoxy. Aleksa Becic, President of the Parliament, said: “You had the Holy in you. Sharp in your expression, but soft in your actions,” Becic said. Becic hopes that Amfilohije will be the last Bishop to defend “the church from his own people”. “May you rest in peace in our Podgorica, in Montenegro, the most beautiful country in the world… Take care of Montenegro with your blessings. Just like you did every time when others tried to undermine it. May long live reconciliation and may long live Montenegro,” Becic said. Serbian Patriarch Irinej said in his speech that the people had gathered to say goodbye to Amfilohije where our “saint ancestors are and where we will be one day”. According to the Patriarch, Amfilohije “shrank weeds on the Holy land”, renewing what was abandoned and neglected. “What is the most important is what Amfilohije left to his people – love for Kosovo and Metohija. I would finally like to remind you of his great will- the renewal of the chapel of Njegos. May this be his testament to believing Serbian people in Montenegro,” Irinej said. Irinej said that it “is not true that Amfilohije died due to coronavirus”. “Metropolitan won that battle with that virus after 11 days, but his organism and physical fragility could not withstand the temptation” he said. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Serb member of the B&H Presidency Milorad Dodik arrived to attend the funeral of the Metropolitan Amfilohije. Vucic was accompanied by Andrija Mandic and Milan Knezevic, DF members. Vucic said that Amfilohije “was a great man” whom he respected very much. Many MPs, political leaders, representatives and functionaries of Montenegrin municipalities, representatives of Montenegrin institutions and institutions of the countries in the region attend the liturgy. Montenegrin President Milo Djukanovic has expressed his condolences to the Metropolitanate of Montenegro and the Littoral, clergy, monasticism and believers of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Montenegro. “I received the news about the passing of His Eminence Metropolitan of Montenegro and the Littoral, Amfilohije with deep sadness. As a dignitary of the SPC, he was an actor and witness of turbulent processes that took place at the end of the last and beginning of this century, both in Montenegro and in the region of the former Yugoslavia,” Djukanovic stated. As he said, history will judge Amfilohije’s overall activities in Montenegro. “In the long period of our cooperation, during which we exchanged opinions on important issues, I will always remember his contribution to the creation of positive environment in the lead-up to the referendum, when our country restored its independence. Be so kind to convey my sympathy to his closest ones,” Djukanovic said.
Vucic: I don’t interfere in formation of your govt like US ambassador is doing (TV Vijesti)
In a statement for TV Vijesti, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said that Metropolitan Amfilohije was an important person for Montenegro and the Serbs, explaining that he came to Montenegro to express his regret about his death. Vucic said that he was not vain and that, even after the criticism against him, he met with Metropolitan Amfilohije several times. He added that his last meeting with Metropolitan Amfilohije of Montenegro and the Littoral was excellent. Serbia’s President offered condolences to Patriarch Irinej and worshippers in Montenegro. He also noted that he wasn’t meddling in the formation of a new govt in Montenegro, as he didn’t even want it. “I’m not like the U.S. ambassador so that you can hear me telling you whom you should choose to be in your government,” the President of Serbia said. Vucic explained that he visited a family house of Andrija Mandic and didn’t agree with the leaders of the Democratic Front, DF, concerning the ‘experts government’. “We had a short meeting… They told me they agreed on the government of experts. They don’t listen to me at all, as I wouldn’t accept it. I would never agree with the minority support to the government,” claims Vucic. He will cooperate with Zdravko Krivokapic, he added, and respect the President of Montenegro, Milo Djukanovic.
Rising Reinke: America encourages Krivokapic to entrust security sector to pro-Western staff (Dan)
We encourage the prime minister-designate, Zdravko Krivokapic, and other leaders of the majority coalition to ensure that individuals who will be appointed in the new government and particularly in essential positions in security sector, have proven commitment to Western values, Montenegro’s sovereignty and Euro-Atlantic course, which includes also responsibility in NATO, Judy Rising Reinke, U.S. Ambassador in Podgorica, has stated. In the interview for Dan, she said that improvement of the rule of law and combating organized crime were still challenging and the most important tasks of Montenegro.
What are your expectations from the new government and the expressed view on the foreign-policy course of Montenegro?
Rising Reinke: After the agreement heads of three coalitions signed on 9 September, the USA praised their promises that Montenegro will stay on its Euro-Atlantic path, continue to pursue key elements of Montenegrin foreign policy and give priority to reforms necessary for the acceleration of the EU accession. I have said many times that actions will speak louder than words even now, while we are waiting for the new government to be formed. It’s time Krivokapic and Dritan Abazovic turned their words into actions, starting from the composition of the new government. I firmly believe that inclusion, tolerant Montenegro, fully integrated into Western institutions, will lead to greater prosperity and brighter future of all Montenegrin citizens. That vision is in line with citizens’ wishes.
Your opinion in relation to the security sector is that it is the most contentious issue for the new government and also for NATO?
Rising Reinke: As one of the 29 Montenegro’s allies in NATO, the USA has clear view on this matter. We encourage the prime minister-designate, Krivokapic, and other leaders of the majority coalition to ensure that individuals who will be appointed in the new government and particularly in essential positions in security sector, have proven commitment to Western values, Montenegro’s sovereignty and Euro-Atlantic course, which includes also responsibility in NATO. Being NATO member implies concrete actions which contribute to strengthening collective security, from the achievement of goals referring to defense costs, to military exercises aimed at improving military preparedness. The USA will proudly support new Montenegrin government, made up of individuals who are committed to these goals.
Do you expect progress in the rule of law, depoliticization of judiciary, prosecutor’s office and Agency for the Prevention of Corruption and amendments to controversial laws, such as, Law on Freedom of Religion, Free Access to the Information and the media?
Rising Reinke: Improvement of rule of law and countering organized crime have always been a challenge and Montenegro’s most important tasks. Lack of progress in this area has proven to be the main obstacle to the EU membership. We share the expectations with citizens: implementation of concrete reforms to counter corruption, criminal prosecution of organized criminal groups and strengthening institutions. Judicial reform is also necessary to ensure independence and impartiality of judiciary and prosecutor’s office. We also expect to see progress in the freedom of the media and research. The US is willing to support the new government in the implementation of concrete changes which will accelerate EU accession. For over a decade, the Embassy has been working on enhancing institutional capacities for the fight against organized crime and corruption, training judges and prosecutors and increasing ability of the police members to respond to all forms of crime. But, at the end of the day, there has to be political will in the new government, in order to double the efforts in the improvement of the rule of law and protection of the freedom of media.
Do you believe in peaceful transfer of power and cohabitation of the new majority with the institutions that the former government managed?
Rising Reinke: Peaceful transfer of power, cooperation around the political spectrum and robust discussion on politics are the characteristics of developed democracies. I hail DPS for the support for peaceful democratic transition and I expect the outgoing government to assist the new one in this period. At the same time, the duty of the new government is to strive to productive cooperation with the minority; with the president and local leaders from different political parties. I also invite DPS to play constructive role in the opposition. That’s in the best interest of Montenegro and citizens of Montenegro. Experienced professionals are employed in many state institutions. I expect many of them will remain in their positions and continue to perform their professional duties, while helping transition of the new counterparts.
Will cooperation with Montenegro and aid continue?
Rising Reinke: American government is proud to be able to invest further in Montenegro, with a total of $332 million. Amid this health crisis, USAID has granted $300.000 to the International Federation of the associations of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, enabling the Red Cross to implement different initiatives, including procurement and distribution of hygiene packages and provision of psycho-social support for vulnerable groups, raising awareness in local communities about risks caused by COVID-19 and employment and training of new volunteers. We have donated medical equipment through the program of humanitarian aid of the US European command: monitors, mobile ultra-sound devices and EKG diagnostic systems. Through our Covid-19 response Fund, the Embassy supports five organizations in the implementation of projects for addressing secondary effects of the pandemic on vulnerable groups in Montenegro, while private American citizens and organizations have engaged to help curb the virus. For example, non-profit organization, “Spirit of America”, has joined local NGOs, Regional development agency for Bijelasica and Paradigma, to help village households compensate the revenues they have lost. Through cooperation with these families, vulnerable individuals were provided with food. The Embassy has earmarked around $130.000 for the support for Montenegrin food safety project. Paradigma plans to implement project in the entire country, through the construction of green houses and garden towers, training local farmers and organizations using modern agricultural techniques and engaging communities. The cooperation and engagement of communities in the fight against the coronavirus, which I have witnessed throughout Montenegro in the past few months, is inspiring and I am glad that my country has been able to provide support in various ways. Although the new government must take strong measures to address the economic effects of this unprecedented crisis, the resilience of Montenegrin citizens assures me that this country will emerge stronger from the pandemic.
First contingent of Macedonian peacekeepers in KFOR leaves for Kosovo (Republika)
The first Macedonian contingent of forty-four army members left for Kosovo on Sunday, to take part in the KFOR Command and Regional Command West, the Ministry of Defense said in a press release. By taking part in the KFOR mission in Kosovo, it added, Macedonia is taking its place in NATO as a country that means peace, security and stability in the Balkans. According to announcements from the Ministry of Defense, the participation of Army members in the KFOR mission in Kosovo will continue to grow during 2021.
Rama-Vucic-Zaev meeting revealed: The crisis has emphasized the need for cooperation, we invite Kosovo to join this initiative (Radio Tirana)
The Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama and his counterparts from Serbia and North Macedonia, Vucic and Zaev, held a joint video meeting. In this video meeting, the leaders of the Balkan states stated that the crisis has stressed the need to further intensify mutual cooperation. Joint press release of the leaders of Albania, Serbia and North Macedonia: President Vucic and Prime Ministers Rama and Zaev stressed that the initiative to boost regional co-operation is fully in line with the Berlin Process and a good basis for the Sofia Summit. The leaders of Serbia, Albania and North Macedonia – President Aleksandar Vucic, the prime ministers, Edi Rama and Zoran Zaev, held a meeting through Zoom to resume the initiative for deeper regional cooperation that was introduced last year. The activities of the initiative for deeper regional cooperation were postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the elections in North Macedonia and Serbia. The three leaders agreed that the crisis has highlighted the need to further intensify mutual co-operation and regional economic integration. During the online meeting, President Vucic and Prime Ministers Rama and Zaev stressed that the initiative is fully in line with the Berlin Process and provides a good basis for preparing the countries of the Western Balkans for the next meeting on the Western Balkans to be held in November in Sofia. This year, Bulgaria and North Macedonia are co-chairs of the Berlin Process. The leaders of Serbia, Albania and North Macedonia agreed that it is very important that the six countries of the Western Balkans participate in the initiative for deeper regional cooperation. They formally invited Kosovo to join the initiative for deeper regional co-operation. The invitation follows the framework set at the Washington meeting in September this year between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo Prime Minister Avdullah Hoti. President Vucic and Prime Ministers Rama and Zaev also agreed to set up a permanent working group, which will include official representatives from each of the countries, in order to speed up the implementation of activities agreed upon in the framework of the deepened regional cooperation. The leaders agreed that the deepened regional co-operation initiative could be used to identify joint infrastructure projects for the region’s development agenda, in line with the EU Economic and Investment Package for the Western Balkans. The three Leaders also agreed to deepen cooperation and align public health policies in the context of the fight against Covid-19. The three leaders said they hoped that soon the governments of Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina could join the initiative. “Thus, better economic cooperation can be achieved between all countries in the region, which would result in increased freedoms, trade and, in general, better living standards for all peoples of the region,” the joint statement said.
Netherlands ‘Okays’ North Macedonia integration, Albania out! (Radio Tirana)
Netherlands is positioned again against European Integration of Albania as Foreign Minister Stef Blok presented a critical report for Albania. Despite some ‘compliments’ for the work done by the Albanian Government to fight crime, corruption or electoral reform more must be done and the political dialogue in the country needs to be improved, especially in the area of electoral reforms and their implementation, while corruption is considered by this European country as a serious problem. “The new judicial institutions have filled vacancies in the Supreme Court and Constitutional Court allowing one of the Chambers of the Supreme Court to function. With the current four members, the Constitutional Court does not yet have a quorum, but on the basis of the guidelines from the opinion of the Venice Commission, the remaining vacancies can be filled. Efforts to build a solid track record are ongoing, although it remains a long-term goal that still requires further structured and consistent efforts. In general, corruption remains widespread and is a serious problem the Commission poses,” says Blok in his report. The government shares the Commission’s appreciation that there is not yet a quorum for the Constitutional Court and that further progress should be made on the revision of the media law based on the opinion of the Venice Commission. Despite the appointment of a few non-magistrates, the Supreme Court is also not yet in a position to hear all cases. Major steps have been taken, in particular in the area of the screening of senior judges and prosecutors, but this is not yet sufficiently leading to actual convictions of the judges charged with criminal activities during the screening. “Corruption remains a major and widespread problem that will continue to demand attention in the years to come. In this context it is positive that the SPAK is now fully operational. The recent report from the Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) concludes that Albania has properly implemented 9 out of 10 recommendations. This shows that Albania is working against corruption. But Albania needs to take further steps to build a solid track record in the investigation, prosecution and final conviction of corruption and organized crime at all levels.
The Council decided in March that the first IGC with Albania can take place, if the conditions set out in the Council conclusions of March 2020 are met. It is crucial for the government to make further progress on the above points in the near future. Only when the conditions as stated in the Council conclusions of March 2020 have been convincingly met is the holding of a first IGC with Albania for the cabinet,” says report.
