LOCAL PRESS

Brnabic and Ziadeh on the situation in Kosovo and Metohija and the continuation of the dialogue (RTS) 

The Prime Minister of Serbia, Ana Brnabic, spoke with the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General and the head of UNMIK, Caroline Ziadeh, about the political situation in Kosovo and Metohija and the continuation of the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.

Prime Minister Brnabic, as announced by the government, pointed out that the UN is the most important international organization in the context of preserving territorial integrity and sovereignty, and that the regular review of the situation in Kosovo and Metohija in the UN Security Council confirms that the situation on the ground is unstable, with frequent incidents and attacks on Serbs as and the endangerment of their property.

She pointed out that the UN’s timely reactions are very important, with a clear and unequivocal condemnation of provocations and unilateral acts. The Prime Minister reminded Ziadeh of the denial of the right to vote to Serbs from Kosovo and Metohija, when they were prevented from expressing themselves in the referendum and in the elections this year. She expressed, it is added, the expectation that the current political and security situation in Kosovo and Metohija will be presented in an objective and transparent manner in the Report of the UN Secretary General on the work of UNMIK, at the session of the UN Security Council, which will be held in October.

“Serbia advocates respect for the principles of international law and the implementation of Resolution 1244 of the UN Security Council and will continue to make efforts to preserve peace and stability,” said Brnabic. She pointed out that Belgrade is fully committed to the dialogue and at the same time expects Pristina to fulfill its obligations under the Brussels Agreement.

Ziadeh said that UNMIK will continue its engagement in achieving a more peaceful and prosperous future through improving respect for human rights and building trust between communities. It is reported that Ziadeh particularly emphasized the necessity of dialogue and respect for the agreements reached, which includes the formation of the Union of Serbian Municipalities.

Petar Petkovic: Political representatives of Albanians in Kosovo constantly cause crisis situations (FoNet)

The Director of the Office of the Government of Serbia for Kosovo and Metohija, Petar Petkovic, assessed in a conversation with the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General and Head of the UN Mission in Kosovo and Metohija (UNMIK) Caroline Ziadeh, that stability and peace are equally in the interest of both the Serbian and Albanian people in Kosovo and Metohija, but also of the entire region. He said that it is clear that the political representatives of the Albanians do not share that opinion and that is why they cause crisis situations on the ground every day. Petkovic pointed out that Pristina’s recent unilateral and illegal moves regarding Serbian license plates and identity cards are a direct threat to the collapse of the dialogue, which leads to destabilization of the situation on the ground. According to Petkovic, stability and peace are equally in the interest of both the Serbian and Albanian people in Kosovo and Metohija, as well as the entire region, however it is clear that the political representatives of the Albanians do not share that opinion and that is why they cause crisis situations on the ground every day.

The recent wounding of Serbian nineteen-year-old Nemanja Mitrovic near Obilic, by Albanian bandits, is the latest in a series of incidents caused by anti-Serb politics and rhetoric full of hatred towards the Serbian people, which can be heard every day in Pristina, Petkovic emphasized. Petkovic stated that from the beginning of last year until today, there were 222 attacks on the Serbian population, and the number of ethnically motivated attacks on Serbs, their property, churches and monasteries, increased by 60 percent, compared to the period before Aljbin Kurti came to power. which seriously complicates efforts to resolve the conflict, warned Petkovic. Despite everything, Belgrade will continue to look for compromise solutions, considering that in this way it works in the interest of everyone whose ambition is to live in a stable and prosperous society, although it is clear that among the political representatives of the Albanians from Kosovo and Metohija there is less and less willingness to do so, which is most eloquently confirmed by the fact that more than nine years have passed since the agreement on the Union of Serbian Municipalities was reached, which has not been established to date, Petkovic emphasized.

Despite everything, Belgrade will continue to look for compromise solutions, considering that in this way it is actually working in the interest of everyone whose ambition is to live in a stable and prosperous society, although it is clear that among the political representatives of the Albanians from Kosovo and Metohija there is less and less readiness for this, which is most eloquently confirmed by the fact that more than nine years have passed since the agreement on the Union of Serbian Municipalities was reached, which has not been established to date. The agreement reached in the field of energy opened up the possibility to achieve progress in other areas as well, primarily in solving the issue of the missing, however, the Pristina side showed that it is not ready for cooperation here, emphasized Director Petkovic. Director Petkovic also drew attention to the frequent bans on entry to Kosmet to Serbian officials, which violates the agreement on freedom of movement, and expressed the hope that this practice will stop. Petkovic thanked the head of UNMIK for the consistent status neutrality of the mission she heads, pointing out that the United Nations is an important interlocutor for Serbia and a guarantor of the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1244.

Vucic: He threatened me, Kurti’s errand boy (B92)

President Aleksandar Vucic addressed the citizens from the Presidency after awarding of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. President of Serbia also spoke on the occasion of the statement of the so-called Kosovo Internal Affairs Minister Xhelal Svecla, who said that “Difficult days await Serbia”. “He threatens me, that Kurti‘s errand boy. I have no problem with that. Just let him continue to threaten”, said Vucic. Let us remind you that at the central demonstration on the occasion of the Day of Serbian Unity, Freedom and the National Flag, which took place yesterday in Bijeljina, President Aleksandar Vucic addressed the crowd and said that at this historic moment we are required to unite under our tricolour.

“Serbia is facing many challenges, they attacked Kosovo and Metohija at any cost, they want to snatch it from our hands, they attacked and don’t ask how or why, they just want to finish what they started, and I can only tell them one thing: you want to take our land both in width and in length, and we will not give you even an inch”, Vucic emphasized at the time.

We remind you that Kurti’s errand boy and the police minister of the fake government in Pristina, Xhelal Svecla, sent threats to the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic, telling him that he will face with difficult days, weeks and months. Namely, this is Svecla’s response to the statement of the President of Serbia in which he emphasized that Serbia will not allow even an inch of land to be taken from it.

Vucic with Hill about the UN General Assembly and the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina (RTS)

The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic, met with the Ambassador of the United States of America in Belgrade, Christopher Hill, with whom he discussed the improvement of bilateral relations and current geopolitical issues, especially in light of the situation after the last round of dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, as well as the upcoming visit to New York on the occasion of the 77th General Debate Sessions of the United Nations Assembly. President Vucic pointed out that Serbia is committed to strengthening economic and bilateral relations with the United States, as well as opening new areas of cooperation in which there are large, but underutilized potentials, according to the press release of the Presidency. In this regard, the president pointed out that during his upcoming visit to New York on the occasion of the General Debate of the 77th session of the UN Assembly, he will discuss the improvement of cooperation with the USA and at the numerous meetings he will have with senior officials of the US administration.

Speaking about the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, the president emphasized that he expects the support of the USA in all efforts of Serbia aimed at continuing the dialogue with Pristina, since the talks are the only right way to solve all open issues, as well as to reach a sustainable agreement. In his conversation with Ambassador Hill, President Vucic reiterated Serbia’s position aimed at preserving peace and stability in the region, since our country, with its consistent and serious policy, has positioned itself as a reliable and responsible partner, committed to political dialogue and the further development of regional relations in all areas.

Ambassador Hill pointed out that the United States and partners from the European Union will continue to advocate for a dialogue that will bring concrete results and reiterated the US’s support for the European integration of Serbia and the countries of the region, the statement concludes.

Starovic: Serbia’s highest-level present at UN General Assembly (RTS)

Serbia’s Secretary of State at the Foreign Ministry Nemanja Starovic said Sunday that the delegation of Serbia led by President Aleksandar Vucic has already travelled to New York and that the President will speak before the General Assembly about the principled positions of the Republic of Serbia among other things. On the eve of the session of the UN General Assembly, Starovic told RTS that during those week and a half, New York becomes the focal point of world diplomacy.

“Serbia is present at the highest level. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Minister of Foreign Affairs Nikola Selakovic have already travelled to New York. They were joined by Marko Djuric, the Ambassador of Serbia to the USA, and they are really starting today with a whole series of meetings,” said Starovic. He estimated that Vucic will speak in New York about the principled positions of the Republic of Serbia, the need to preserve those basic postulates of international public law and about everything that makes Serbia’s foreign policy constructive, principled, but to some extent predictable. “Everyone knows, when it comes to the Republic of Serbia, what are the principles by which we are guided and what can be expected from us. On the other hand, it is clear to everyone that we can’t give up our positions, that we won’t give up our supreme national interests and that we will literally protect international public law,” Starovic pointed out.

Vucic’s marathon in New York: The President of Serbia on the East River with 30 world officials (Novosti)

One of the key battles for the defence of Kosovo and Metohija, around which the Western powers are tightening the ring in order to realize their fake state project to the end, will be fought in the coming days on the East River, where our delegation is led by the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic. During his stay in New York, on the occasion of the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly, he will meet with more than 30 state officials around the world and heads of key international political and economic organizations.

Vucic previously announced that in New York he will strongly defend international law, which the Western powers wholeheartedly appeal to in the case of Ukraine, and trampled on him when it comes to Kosovo. He will address the General Assembly tomorrow, where he will speak about Serbia’s principled positions and defend state and national interests.

The confirmed number of meetings is impressive both in terms of the number and importance of the interlocutors, so Vucic will, among others, talk with the presidents of Iran, Somalia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, the leaders of Niger, Gabon, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer, the King of Eswatini, Ngwenyama Mswati III…

Meetings with the highest officials of the Washington administration and a significant number of influential congressmen are particularly significant. Vucic should therefore meet with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, as well as with Jack Sullivan, US President Joseph Biden‘s national security adviser. Also, on the agenda are talks with US Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland, congressmen from the ranks of both Democrats and Republicans, including Eric Swalwell. Meetings were also arranged with Richard Grenell, former envoy for dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, and Jared Kushner, advisor and son-in-law of former US President Donald Trump. Meetings are also planned with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, as well as with the leaders of the European Union – the head of diplomacy, Josep Borrell, and the European envoy for dialogue, Miroslav Lajcak. Vucic should also meet with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. It has not yet been clarified whether he will also attend the reception organized by the US president for world leaders due to the order of speeches at the UN. Also, confirmation of the date for the meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is awaited. Vucic will also have important meetings with leaders of the World Jewish Congress and representatives of the Jewish Organization for Restitution.

The Serbian delegation to the UN General Assembly includes the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nikola Selakovic, as well as the Serbian Ambassador to the USA, Marko Djuric. State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nemanja Starovic, said yesterday that if you look back ten years, there has never been greater interest in meetings with the President of Serbia and members of our delegation. Before the start of numerous bilateral meetings, President Vucic held a special “briefing” with our ambassador to the USA, Marko Djuric.

Region and economy in focus 

The session of the UN General Assembly in New York will be another opportunity for the leaders of the Western Balkans to “examine” all the open issues burdening the region. It is planned that President Vucic will meet with the officials of countries in the region who will arrive for the session of the UN General Assembly, and a special meeting should be organized as part of the “Open Balkans” initiative, with representatives of Albania and North Macedonia.

In addition to political talks, Vucic will also have important meetings where the topic will be the economy. He will meet with the president of the World Economic Forum, Borge Brende, Jared Cohen, the director of the IT company “Jigsaw”, the director of “Bechtel”…

Brnabic: There will be more countries that would withdraw Kosovo recognition (Politika)

Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic emphasized that there would be more countries that would withdraw recognition of Kosovo independence, Politika daily reported on Saturday. “Withdrawal of recognitions is one of the most important indicators of fair, consistent and well-planned policy built by Serbia for years”, Brnabic said. “This is a policy based on respect of international law and the fact that law, justice and all argumentation were absolutely on the side of Serbia”, the Prime Minister stated. Previously, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said that there were eight countries that sent a note on withdrawal of recognition and added that this would be announced “when the time is right”.

Parliament Speaker Claims Council of Europe Principles Do Not Permit for Kosovo Membership (VIP)

Serbian Parliament Speaker Vladimir Orlic has stated that the issue of Kosovo’s candidacy for membership in the Council of Europe (CoE) is unacceptable for Serbia, but also from the standpoint of the rules and values on which this organization is based. In conversation with head of the CoE Belgrade Office Tobias Flessenkemper, he also said that official Belgrade insists on an approach that implies respecting agreed solutions, while institutions in Pristina are ignoring assumed obligations and are making unilateral moves on a daily basis, which even threatens the physical safety of Serbs. “Kosovo’s CoE aspirations are harmful, counterproductive and in violation of the basic principles of the organization, therefore it is necessary for the CoE to maintain a neutral position,” Orlic said. He said that the request for CoE membership represents a violation of the Statute, because it undermines the unity of the organization, whose 12 member states do not recognize Kosovo as an independent state, as well as the article according to CoE membership is open only to states. “Pristina is trying to politically abuse the CoE,” Orlic concluded.

Lajcak, Escobar: Future of Serbia, Kosovo lies in European union (Kurir)

Special envoys of the United States and the European Union (EU) for the Belgrade-Pristina talks, Gabriel Escobar and Miroslav Lajcak, said in an interview with the Kurir daily published on Sept. 17 that the future of Serbia and Kosovo was in the Union, and that the dialogue was a mechanism that led to a comprehensive agreement. Lajcak underlined that the dialogue was the way for both sides to reach the EU, and that “a comprehensive normalization agreement is necessary, as the status quo is unsustainable.” “It is very important to overcome the current stage, in which we talk with the two leaders on a nearly daily basis, simply to avoid deeper tensions and start discussing the big picture,” Lajcak said. The EU envoy noted that accession to the Union would not be possible for Serbia and Kosovo if they failed to normalize their ties. “I believe that we need to step away from the narrative that Kosovo is Serbia and head to a new one, that Kosovo and Serbia are Europe. You have a shared future which is quickly moving away from the problems of the 1990s and to the opportunities of the 21st century,” Escobar said. The U.S. envoy said he believed the Western Balkans were able to be a driving force behind economic growth, which should be the focus.

Germany, France, Poland support Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, visa-free regime for Kosovo (Beta)

In a joint statement the foreign ministries of France, Germany and Poland, the so-called Weimar Triangle, stated that the three states fully supported the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue. “We fully support the EU-led Kosovo-Serbia dialogue and stress the need for a comprehensive agreement that allows for Kosovo and Serbia to advance on their respective paths and contributes to stability in the region,” the joint statement carried by Pristina’s media on Sept. 16 said. The three states also urged for progress in the EU visa liberalization process for Kosovo, underlining their commitment to the Berlin Process. “We highlight the importance of implementing the historic decision by the six Western Balkan countries to create a Common Regional Market,” the three ministries said in the joint statement.

Varhelyi: The Western Balkans is a geostrategic priority more than ever (Tanjug)

The European Commissioner for Enlargement, Oliver Varhelyi, stated that the Western Balkans is more than ever a geostrategic priority for the European Union at the time of the Ukrainian crisis. He says that it is necessary to speed up the accession process of this region and turn its European perspective into reality. In a video message at the conference of the civil society of the Western Balkans, which was held in Prague on the topic “Youth policy in the Western Balkans – an essential element for the future of the region and Europe”, Oliver Varhelyi said that “we live in rather turbulent times” and pointed out the challenges which the EU is facing. “In addition to the socio-economic challenges posed by the Covid crisis, which we are still trying to tackle, Russia’s war in Ukraine is gradually escalating the level of destruction, and the number of dead in Ukraine is growing exponentially. This aggression must end!” said Varhelyi, it was published on the official website of the EU. He added that “in the middle of this crisis”, while the EU is trying to mitigate the devastating consequences of this war, the Western Balkans has become “a geostrategic priority more than ever” for Brussels. “Therefore, with more focus, we must continue to work with our partners from the Western Balkans to accelerate their European path and make their European perspective a reality. It is in our mutual interest to accelerate their accession processes, with the EU perspective as the main driving force for urgently needed reforms,” Varhelyi pointed out. He added that EU support is built around the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans. “This Economic Investment Plan is an investment package of 30 billion euros, which is one third of the GDP of the entire region. I believe that this plan has the potential to transform the region and bring prosperity to its people that has not been seen before. We offer road construction, energy supply and development of the digital economy. We also support education,” said Varhelyi. He emphasized that the joint implementation of this plan is the best way to accelerate European integration and offer an attractive future for the young generations in the region. “Without young people, there is no future”, stated Varhelyi.

Varhelyi said that this year, during which the European Year of Youth is celebrated, is an opportunity to show “how we can build modern economies and inclusive societies, where young people have the opportunity to develop, communicate and actively participate in creating a better region”.  “There is a lot to do. On average, the unemployment rate in 2021 in the Western Balkans was 13.7 percent. This is a very high figure if I compare it with the EU. Looking at the data, we also saw that the youth unemployment rate is staggering. Almost 35 percent of young people are unemployed, which means that they cannot find a job, maybe because there is no work or maybe because the skills they have are not the ones that the economy needs. Therefore, the European Union is especially looking at those programs and means to solve this situation “, said the European Commissioner for Enlargement.

Vucic with Radev on strengthening energy cooperation in the region (RTS)

The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic, spoke by phone with the President of the Republic of Bulgaria, Rumen Radev. Vucic accepted the Bulgarian president’s invitation to participate in the opening ceremony of the gas interconnector between Bulgaria and Greece at the beginning of October. Aeksandar Vucic and Rumen Radev stated in a telephone conversation that the interconnector between Bulgaria and Greece will contribute to gas diversification in the region, as well as strengthening regional cooperation in the field of energy, which is necessary in the current complicated geopolitical circumstances, announced the Service for Cooperation with the Media of the President of the Republic. The two presidents emphasized that they are committed to strengthening good neighborly relations between Serbia and Bulgaria, as well as cooperation in all areas of interest to both countries, citing the importance of projects in the field of transport infrastructure and energy.

REGIONAL PRESS

Bosnia and Herzegovina  

Vucic, Dodik and Orban discuss global energy crisis and challenges Europe will face in upcoming period; They confirm commitment to continuation of mutual cooperation (RTRS)

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic met with Serb member of Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Presidency Milorad Dodik (SNSD) and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, in Belgrade on Friday. They discussed the global energy crisis and challenges Europe will face in the upcoming period. The three officials confirmed their commitment for continuation of mutual cooperation. Ahead of the meeting, Orban was awarded the Order of the Republic of Serbia for exceptional contributions in developing and strengthening peaceful cooperation and friendly relations between Serbia and Hungary. Vucic stated that relations between the two countries are at the highest level ever, adding that Orban is a true friend of Serbia and the Serb people. He thanked Orban for helping Serbia get through the long and cold upcoming winter. Orban said that the two countries have to defend “Europe’s southern gate”, which is a joint mission and responsibility of Serbia and Hungary given a new migration trend. He added that the two nations share history, geography and centuries of friendship, stressing that “Hungary and Serbia have to be friends”.

Dodik told RTRS after the meeting he discussed the situation in Republika Srpska (RS), economy and the upcoming challenges, and exchanged information on the most important strategic issues with his true friends – Vucic and Orban. He added that Hungary maintains good and friendly relations with the RS and Serbia through a clear policy and concrete projects, reminding that implementation of a project worth EUR 28 million in the field of agriculture is underway in the RS. Dodik said that he is absolutely satisfied with a fact that there is an open possibility for additional arrangements with Hungary that are important for the RS. He noted that it is obvious that the global economy will be faced with huge challenges given the enormous growth in prices of energy sources, concluding that therefore it is very important to have a chance to discuss this with people who have influence and understand such challenges.

Dodik: I will propose to Putin that Russia supports extension of Althea mission in B&H (RTRS)

Serb member of Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Presidency Milorad Dodik (SNSD) confirmed to RTRS on Friday that he will travel to Moscow next week to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, adding that energy and the gas pipeline will be among the main topics at the meeting. “Republika Srpska (RS) is very interested in construction of a gas pipeline (from Serbia to the RS), and the Russian side has approved that project. We have a deadlock in terms of decision-making at the level of B&H, which poses a serious problem”, Dodik said. He assessed that Sarajevo sees everything in a very unproductive and unexpectedly bad way, and although they expect to get gas from Russia, they prevent anything that Russia would do with the RS or with them. Dodik reminded that he talked earlier within certain structures in Sarajevo about an option that Russians build a power plant somewhere near Sarajevo in the Federation of B&H (FB&H) in order to increase energy stability, but that people in Sarajevo are only directed towards showing their subservience to the West. Dodik announced that he will propose to Putin that Russia supports the extension of the Althea mission in B&H at the UN Security Council in November. He stressed that Russia is a proven friend of the RS and that ‘You are either for Russia or for us’ exclusivity that is seen in the West should be absolutely rejected. “We must cooperate with everyone who wants to cooperate with us. If the price of non-cooperation is an ultimatum, then it is not about cooperation but about the vassalage that we cannot accept”, Dodik concluded. “My approach, and I will propose to President Putin that Russia advocates that this mission is extended because we believe that it has certain significance except in one part when it tried to make some new approach there,” Dodik said.

Dodik’s Advisor Trisic-Babic: Dodik will discuss energy situation with Putin and will inform him on progress regarding Serbia-RS gas pipeline; There is chemistry and understanding between Dodik and Orban in relation to the situation in the world and Europe (ATV)

Advisor to the Serb member of the Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Presidency for Foreign Policy Ana Trisic-Babic, asked to comment on developments in relation to granting a formal approval to a new German Ambassador to B&H (Thomas Fitschen), said it needs to be underlined that Serb member of the B&H Presidency Milorad Dodik and Republika Srpska (RS) “have nothing against the name and person of the Ambassador, nor there has been anything in regard to undermining diplomatic relations between Germany and B&H, and with the RS as one of the entities in B&H. This was a form of protest over what has been happening in the past four years in relations between Germany and B&H, i.e. the RS”. She went on to say that the last “serious talks with Germany’’ were during the failed negotiations on constitutional reform “in a way coordinated by the then German Chancellor Angela Merkel, when the relations in a way stopped”. Trisic-Babic reminded that for a longer period of time signals have been sent to Germany from the level of B&H and from the RS that talks are necessary, “that we want Germany as a partner, that the RS sees nothing bad in Germany’s policy towards the Western Balkans, on the contrary; but the things in B&H cannot be left to chance, as it has been the case for some time now, and there has been no response. The height of hypocrisy and lack of knowledge of what is happening in B&H is the Bundestag’s Resolution. That was the moment we realized that it is necessary again to draw Germany’s attention, as well as the attention of German Members of the Parliament, that it is necessary to talk and take the RS seriously, and that the RS and its politicians will never allow any regrouping within B&H”.

Asked to comment on B&H Foreign Minister Bisera Turkovic sending a letter of protest to the Croatian Embassy to B&H, Trisic-Babic said it is Turkovic’s “another gem”, explaining that in order to send a letter of protest, instruction from the B&H Presidency is necessary, which was not the case. She went on to say that, despite the media in the Federation of B&H (FB&H) reporting that the B&H Foreign Ministry “prevented something, when you talk with international diplomats and politicians, it is clear to all of them that the B&H Foreign Ministry does not present B&H such as it is with its two entities, and that it is private policy, and whenever they do something we are asked whether we know about the issue and whether we agree with it”.

Asked what can be expected from Dodik’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, especially in terms of projects that are difficult to implement because they are blocked by Sarajevo, Trisic-Babic said Dodik will meet with Putin September 20, and the meeting is continuation of their conversation they initiated during the International Economic Forum in Saint Petersburg in June, noting that the focus will be on the energy situation and “what can be done to have the best possible situation here”. She went on to say that progress in relation to the gas pipeline project from Serbia towards the RS will be discussed, and “the Serb member of the Presidency will inform President Putin who, by the way, in all meetings – as well as the Russian Federation in its statements – always underlines they support the Dayton B&H within its borders, respecting three constituent peoples and two entities, in accordance with the (B&H) Constitution. So, this time as well, no talks about undermining peace in B&H are expected, but discussion about serious economic issues is expected”.

Reporter reminded of Dodik’s recent meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and progress in the project in the RS implemented in cooperation with Hungary. Trisic-Babic responded by saying the relations between the RS and Hungary have been exceptional in the past four years since Dodik is in the B&H Presidency, noting that “there is a chemistry and understanding between him and PM Orban in relation to the situation in the world and Europe, and they always have topic to discuss and they have very similar positions on how to – so to say – survive this situation”. Trisic-Babic reminded that, during his brief visit to Banja Luka in November, Orban presented the project composed of three stages, and it was agreed that around EUR 100 million would be available to the RS. She went on to say that within the first stage, agricultural producers in the RS “were offered to select machinery that would help them in their production”, and the focus of the second phase will be on expanding the scope of the project and connecting agricultural producers from the RS with the Hungarian market. “This is something the RS got for the first time from one European country without any conditions and complications”, said Trisic-Babic.

Former Yugoslav diplomat Jovanovic: Germany openly supports Bosniak parties, claims about Russian interference serve purpose of providing alibi for interventions of West (Glas Srpske)

The daily carried an interview with former Yugoslav diplomat Vladislav Jovanovic who claimed that the West – and especially the countries of the Quint, i.e. USA, UK, Germany, France and Italy – are rushing to pressure Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic into recognizing the independence of Kosovo because they want to eliminate the argument used by Russian President Vladimir Putin to support independence of the Donbas, Crimea and Lugansk. Asked to comment the growing influence of USA and Germany in the Balkans and the declaration on Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) recently adopted by the Bundestag, Jovanovic stated that Berlin is using the current turmoil to restore its colonial influence in the region, and the harsh rhetoric aimed against Serbs is in line with Germany’s older policies. Jovanovic accused Germany of openly supporting Bosniak political parties and their intention to turn B&H into a unitary state. On the other hand, Germany is very critical to everything coming from Republika Srpska (RS). He argued that this policy is in line with the general interests of the West in B&H, and that the Dayton Peace Agreement allows the Western countries to pursue their interests. However, he warned, any violation of the Dayton Agreement could backfire. Asked to comment the alleged Russian cyberattacks on B&H institutions and the claims that Russia has funded political campaigns in B&H, Jovanovic stated that this is just a media spin seeking to provide an alibi for interventions of the West. He argued that even if Russia is using such methods, that is nothing compared to the effects of the so-called “soft diplomacy” of the West which has a significant impact on all political and economic aspects of life in the Western Balkan countries.

B&H Presidency member Dodik: EC seems to be willing to divide B&H and conditioning of unblocking of EUR 600 million for construction of Corridor 5C through RS by resolution of political crisis proves that (ATV)

Serb member of the Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Presidency Milorad Dodik stated the European Commission (EC) seems to be willing to divide B&H, and conditioning of unblocking EUR 600 million for the construction of the Corridor 5C through Republika Srpska (RS) by resolution of political crisis in B&H proves that. “Why did not they block it from Sarajevo to Ploce? There has been no government for four years now, and there is an unprecedented crisis there because Bosniaks and Croats cannot live together at all. They have failed to resolve anything, including the issue of the (B&H) Election Law, and their funds have not been blocked. That shows they are willing to divide B&H and I have nothing against it”, Dodik was quoted as saying.

Dodik said on Sunday that they are looking to give a concession to a Chinese company for the construction of the Corridor 5C highway section from Doboj to Vukosavlje. He stated that this is more beneficial for the RS instead of a loan handed out by the European Commission. He also said that a Chinese company is interested in working on this section and they will pick the best possible framework. Dodik said that the EU proposed a new framework of financial support for B&H for the next two to three years, with a total of EUR 700 million and only 35 million will be allocated to the RS. He stressed that this will not be approved in the B&H Presidency, since the RS participates in B&H finances with 35% and until they receive this percentage in support, they will vote against this.

Dodik also said that the EU is making up crisis in the RS which does not exist. He noted that in Vienna, tens of thousands of disgruntled citizens protest in the streets, which is not the case in the RS.

HR Schmidt: Electoral frauds will not be tolerated (N1)

In a text written for Oslobodjenje daily on Saturday, High Representative Christian Schmidt said that electoral frauds can be considered anti-Dayton activities and will not be tolerated. He added that election will of citizens need to be respected, underlining that that as the HR he wants Bosnia and Herzegovina citizens to feel that they have power in their hands on October 2, stressing that the election-day should be a peak of active democracy, adding that elections belong to the people and not to political parties. “Those who are trying to exert influence or pressure on voters and their families in an illegal manner, I am telling them: election frauds and coercion are not only criminal acts but can be considered anti-Dayton activities, which will not be tolerated”, reads the article written by HR Schmidt.

Borrell to meet Western Balkans leaders in New York on Monday (Glas Srpske)

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell will meet leaders of the Western Balkans countries in New York on Tuesday. The meeting will take place on the outskirts of the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UN GA). Borrell was scheduled to meet Secretary General of the UN Antonio Guterres on Sunday and he will attend a panel discussion on Ukraine and global crises on Monday.

Statement by Croatian President that it is possible that Croatian troops are deployed in military missions in B&H if needed causes reactions in B&H (Nova BH)

The latest statement by Croatian President Zoran Milanovic, that it is possible that Croatian troops are deployed in the international military missions in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) if needed and that he will insist on that, has caused reactions in B&H. Commenting on the role of the Croatian army, Milanovic said that that Croatian soldiers perform a good and demanding job within military missions, but that “they are being prevented from being present in military missions in B&H”. He stressed that this situation will change and no one from NATO will oppose such intentions because “our intentions have never been gripping or predatory, but defensive and humane”.

Croat member of B&H Presidency Zeljko Komsic (DF) stated that B&H’s doors are closed to Croatian military personnel, stressing that Milanovic will never see the day when Croatian troops will be deployed in B&H as a part of peacekeeping mission. Commenting on the issue, former military representative of B&H to NATO Alija Kozljak said that theoretically it is possible that Croatia participates in some of the military missions in B&H, but it is hard to implement this practically under the current circumstances mostly because the NATO, EU and those who advise on the military troop composition take into consideration both the historical elements and political situation in B&H. He stressed that even in case that Milanovic formally requests the deployment of Croatian troops in B&H – it would be hard to get a number of necessary approvals for that. Kozljak concluded that Milanovic’s statement can be therefore seen as a political one.

Croatia 

Kosovo PM Kurti: There cannot be war in Balkans without Serbia and peace without Albanians (Vecernji list)

Vecernji list daily carries an interview with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti. Kurti expressed concern about the fact that Serbia strongly gets armed with the equipment they get from Russia and China and it wishes to impose itself as some sort of an alternative to the democratic West in the Balkans. He also does not exclude the possibility of the war in Kosovo in the context of this. Kurti concludes that there cannot be war in the Balkans without Serbia, but also there cannot be peace without Albanians. He stressed that the most dangerous things is that the Serbia’s leadership considers that Russia is a mother to Serbia and for this reasons the situation in the Balkans is full of risks and uncertainty. Kurti also said: “We all know that our future is joint in the EU, and Sonner Serbia understands this, it will be better for them. I believe that with recognition of Kosovo as an independent state, Serbia would also benefit and not just Kosovo.” According to Kurti, Belgrade does not hide that they want a Serb state within Kosovo adding that this scenario was seen before in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H).

Commenting on the ‘Open Balkan’ initiative, Kurti said that we can have ‘Open Balkan’ after Serbia opens itself to Kosovo. He added that ‘Open Balkan’ looks more as the Balkan open for influence from the east, especially of Russia and China, and as open for corruption, autocracy, war crimes, the things that are contrary to European values. He concluded that “we” should be with the EU and not be open to Russia and China adding that Europe is “our” continent, while the EU is “our” destiny.

In Kurti’s opinion, it is the best that whole Balkans joins NATO. As for relations between B&H and Serbia, Kurti said that they are good but they are not very good due to Republika Srpska (RS). He added: “If the RS does not put a veto, Sarajevo and Pristina, as the capitals of independent countries, would immediately recognize each other. I am sorry that the situation is like this since most of population in B&H loves Kosovo and they would like that we recognize each other.” He added that this game of the RS is very bad for both sides.

Milanovic: Croatia is prevented from being present, at least at headquarters level, in EUFOR mission in B&H (Nova)

Croatian President Zoran Milanovic said in Split on Friday that his country is prevented from being present, at least at the headquarters level, in the EUFOR mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H). “That will change and nobody in NATO will oppose it and it is better that they do not oppose it because our intentions were never greedy, predatory, but defensive and humane. Those whose heads we saved and made their state possible today do not show even the slightest courtesy of gratitude, let alone more,” Milanovic was quoted as saying.

Montenegro 

Djukanovic: New elections most likely option, I hope we’re having them in two or three months (Pobjeda) 

Having in mind the state of play when it comes to negotiations among the parties of the former ruling majority, the President of Montenegro, Milo Djukanovic, says that snap elections are the most likely outcome. He believes that it’d be good to have them organized in the shortest term possible, that is, within two or three months.

“Right now, I can’t guess whether that ruling majority, set up following the 2020 parliamentary elections, is going to agree on the formation of a new, third government, or we’re all going to agree that it’s useless and that snap elections should be organized as soon as possible. But I’m sure about one thing – even if they form the third government, it won’t last for too long,” the President assesses in an interview for Euro News Albania. He expects that after the elections, Montenegro would get a stable government, which would continue to lead us towards the European progress. “In my opinion, these two years of a new political experience were wasted. In these two years, we only generated problems when it comes to finances, economy, institution and legal order. Montenegro halted the EU negotiations and these are the reasons why I think we need a strong, political and responsible government. It’s obvious we cannot get it based on the results of the 2020 election.”

Mandic: Concrete power distribution got stuck, DF ready to give in maximallyꓼ Krapovic: We’ll be in Parliament all day, URA shouldn’t undermine agreement (CDM, Pobjeda)

The seventh in a row – meeting of the parliamentary majority of 30 August 2020 on the formation of the Government lasted only about 20 minutes. Representatives of URA, CIVIS and the Movement for Changes did not attend the meeting. According to NOVA’s leader Andrija Mandic, the Democratic Front is ready to make concessions in order to reach an agreement on the formation of the 44th Government. He has added that everyone agreed that the Demos leader Miodrag Lekic should be the prime minister designate. They signed, he says, that they will respect democratic principles and that deviation from them will be a matter of agreement. Democrats’ MP Dragan Krapovic has said that this party is ready for an agreement. He has added that they are proud of the contribution they made. “We will be in Parliament all day, we call on our colleagues from URA to change their minds, to return to the table, not to undermine the agreement”, Krapovic has stressed.

Konjevic: Abazovic gets a clear message what he can and can’t do (Pobjeda)

“Prime Minister Dritan Abazovic knows what he can and can’t do, and his press conference on Friday is just a clarification of going on a trip, because he knows what he can’t do”, says Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Rasko Konjevic. He is of the opinion that the only solution after two years of different models is snap elections. Mandates, as he says, must be returned to the citizens. Abazovic will be in the United States of America in the coming days, where, as he himself said, he will have important meetings about political processes in Montenegro.

Montenegro closer to new parliamentary elections after all (CDM)

Montenegro was facing recent extraordinary Parliamentary elections because it would not be very probable that a new Government would be formed, Montenegrin President and the leader of Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) Milo Djukanovic said. “Even if a new Government is formed, it would not last long. This political field of Parliamentary majority, created based on results of the elections held on August 30 2020, is very unstable and it cannot generate a stable political Government”, Djukanovic emphasized. He said that it was thus much more probable to organize Parliamentary elections soon. Djukanovic accused the current outgoing Montenegrin Prime Minister and the leader of URA Civil Movement Dritan Abazovic of being a political manipulator and a guilty party for the current situation in the country.

The leader of New Serbian Democracy and one of the leaders of Democratic Front (DF) Andrija Mandic called for an urgent synchronization of the Prime Minister designate for formation of new Government and warned that the time was running out. “The time is running out to reach an agreement. It is not about days anymore, but hours”, Mandic said. He added that DF decided to accept the offer of URA and CIVIS organization that the number of members of the future Government should be established by parity i.e. they should pick one half and all other parties should pick the other half of the Government. A candidate for the future Prime Minister Miodrag Lekic would get a so-called “golden vote” in making decisions, according to this agreement.

North Macedonia 

Government delegation led by Kovacevski at the 77th UN General Assembly in New York (Libertas)

Prime Minister Dimitar Kovacevski will lead the government delegation that will participate in the General Debate of the 77th General Assembly of the United Nations in New York (USA) from today until September 24. The government delegation includes the Minister of Foreign Affairs Bujar Osmani, the permanent representative of the Republic of North Macedonia to the UN in New York, Ljubomir Frchkovski, as well as the advisor for foreign affairs Edmond Ademi.

According to the agenda, Prime Minister Kovacevski will participate and address the Main Debate of the 77th UN General Assembly where the theme is “Transformative solutions to intertwined challenges”. Kovacevski will participate and address the Education Transformation Summit under the auspices of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and UNESCO. The debate will be in the direction of improving the educational systems in the countries through reform processes that will ensure quality and affordable education for every child. As announced by the government press service, the PM will participate and speak at a high-level meeting on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National, or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities.

During his visit to New York, Kovacevski will hold a lecture at the renowned Columbia University, where he will review the unique model of sustainable democracy of the Republic of North Macedonia, as well as the country’s economic integration and transformation. The lecture will be held as part of the series of speakers and lectures at the Forum of World Leaders, where more than 300 presidents of states from 85 countries have participated so far, including the Prime Minister of Croatia Zoran Milanovic, the Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the Prime Minister of Norway, Solberg, the Prime Minister of Finland, Marin. In this series of speakers, former US President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of the State Department Madeleine Albright, former President of the French Republic Nicolas Sarkozy, former UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon have given lectures.

Within the framework of the UN General Assembly, Prime Minister Kovacevski has been invited and will attend receptions with the President of the United States, Joe Biden, and with the Mayor of New York, Eric Adam. During the visit, within the framework of the UN General Assembly, Prime Minister Kovacevski will meet with the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres. During his working visit to the USA, the Prime Minister will hold several bilateral meetings, as well as meetings with prominent Macedonian personalities who work and live in New York.

Albania 

New agreement between Kosovo and Serbia ready, Mutual recognition of independence ahead of joining EU in 2033 (Albanian Post)

A new agreement on normalization of relations, where Serbia de facto accepts the reality of Kosovo as an independent state, but formally doesn’t recognize it, is set to be signed in 2023, with formal recognition following only in 2023, ahead of the Western Balkan states joining the EU, states the plan for the new frame of the dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo, compiled after the involvement of envoys of Germany and France, the Albanian Post reports. Mutual recognition would be a condition for the two countries to join the EU, the newspaper reports. The agreement also stipulates that the five EU member sates that have not recognized Kosovo’s independence will do so, while Serbia will at the same time gain huge financial assistance, making it the strongest power in the region. The “new framework” is a proposal that stems directly from the involvement of French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in the dialogue process, because the document states that “Kosovo and Serbia will never be able to resolve the problem on their own.” The document allegedly is four pages long, consisting of three segments, with three subheadings and contains 13 points, the Albanian Post writes, providing blurred scanned documents on its portal as proof. The proposal also stipulates what will if Kosovo and Serbia do not accept the document. The part on the vision of the dialogue, “Macro Perspective” indicates in three points what is expected in the next ten years if the agreement is accepted. Point one stresses that “by the middle of 2023 essential normalization of relations must be achieved.” “Kosovo and Serbia are two separate legal and political realities, which, as such, must recognize all the parties in the dialogue process. All the parties are Pristina (Kosovo), Belgrade (Serbia), and Brussels (EU, which means all the states of the EU, including those that have not recognize [Kosovo]),” while the following point explains Serbia’s position. “Serbia will not be ready to join the EU without full normalization of political, legal and diplomatic relations with Kosovo. However, given the fact that Serbia’s accession to the EU is still far off, in this phase Serbia will not be required to legally recognize Kosovo.” The document clarifies that it is necessary to change the use of terminology and us “acceptance of the independence of

Kosovo, as opposed to recognizing the independence of Kosovo.” The following points states that “by accepting Kosovo as a separate political and legal reality, Serbia will assume a passive stance and no longer oppose Pristina’s membership in international organizations.” Since Kosovo’s membership in the United Nations depends on Russia’s veto in the Security Council, the plan calls for Kosovo’s membership in international organization to go through several phases: membership in the Council of Europe, Interpol and UNESCO, start of negotiations on NATO and EU, while the last phase would be membership in the UN. Finally, it is explained what both sides gain if they sign the agreement and what the consequences will be if the agreement is not achieved, but there are no details on what the “stick” would be in this case. The document does not address specific elements, nor agreement that have been achieved so far in Brussels, including the establishment of the Community of Serb Municipalities (ZSO), even though Western diplomats are allegedly still insisting that Pristina implement everything that has been previously agreed. Albanian Post claims that Kosovo authorities will not accept the establishment of the ZSO before at least an informal recognition of independence, and that this should be “moved to the third phase of the dialogue, when the European prospects of Serbia and Kosovo become tangible.”