Pristina sets conditions on dialogue with Belgrade (dailies)
Kosovo government representatives said on Monday in Pristina that dialogue with Serbia in Brussels would not continue until Belgrade implements the agreements reached so far in the EU-brokered talks. Valon Myrtezaj, a senior political advisor to Kosovo Prime Minister Isa Mustafa, told reporters: “Kosovo’s position is very clear: Serbia must implement its part of the agreements reached in Brussels. This means that we will not be addressing new topics as long as the Serbian side does not fulfill their part”. Meanwhile, opposition representatives in Pristina argue that there is no reason to proceed with talks unless the two sides do not discuss Kosovo’s recognition by Serbia.
Special Court to make first arrests in May (Kosova Sot)
The preparation teams for the establishment of the special court have finalized all details and files that will be available to the prosecutors of the specialized chambers to initiate the first indictments. Tirana-based TV station Top Channel learned from international sources in Pristina that the first arrests of senior Kosovo officials who were also in the hierarchy of the former Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) are expected in May. Sources also said that the majority of indictments are ready but they could not specify the number of people who will be accused.
Special court will try 12 former KLA soldiers (Bota Sot)
International sources told Gazeta Blic on Monday that the special court will try twelve former members of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA). “There will be 12 cases, within which 12 KLA members will most probably be tried,” the source said. He also added that the majority of those accused used to hold senior positions in the KLA and are currently in politics. “The majority of defendants or two thirds will be from the Democratic Party of Kosovo. There will be defendants from other parties as well,” the source added.
Jahjaga: Support from Switzerland is unwavering (Zeri)
Kosovo’s President Atifete Jahjaga met on Monday with the President of Switzerland, Simonetta Sommaruga. The two presidents discussed the deepening of cooperation with special emphasis on bringing more investments to Kosovo. Jahjaga and Sommaruga also discussed the irregular migration and the rule of law. Jahjaga said that Kosovo is working hard to establish a functional rule of law that enables economic development. Sommaruga said that Switzerland will continue to support Kosovo in all areas. In regards to irregular migration, Sommaruga said that the migration of people from Kosovo undermines the country’s path towards the European Union.
Zbogar: EU supports investigative journalists (dailies)
The European Union Office in Pristina on Monday opened a contest for investigative journalism. The EU Special Representative in Kosovo, Samuel Zbogar said that the EU will continue to supports the courageous and investigative journalists. “There will be a great competition in Kosovo and your country should be proud of journalists that Kosovo has,” Zbogar said.
Mitrovica mayor under attack (Zeri)
The Mayor of Mitrovica, Agim Bahtiri, was physically attacked in his office on Monday. Kosovo Police Spokesperson for the Mitrovica region, Avni Zahiti, confirmed the attack and said it came from a 25-year-old who requested a meeting with Bahtiri, but the latter told him he doesn’t have time. Bahtiri suffered no serious injuries.
