LOCAL PRESS

Vucic: Our EU path depends from Kosovo and Metohija (RTS/Beta)

A big journey is ahead of us until we reach EU full-fledged membership, but everything depends from Kosovo, while everything else serves as additional pressure, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said in Nis. “Because when we talk about Kosovo, we do not talk to those we should, that is to Kosovo, but to its powerful protectors… It’s a problem when you need to talk to those who were destroying Serbia in 1999 and recognized state of Kosovo in 2008. They are very mighty and powerful,” Vucic said. He said that Serbia must be reasonable and rational, preserve its independence and protect the country, but in no way endanger it. “We want to have peace and a future,” Vucic said. He said he tells world leaders to their face all the things his predecessors did not dare in the past 20 to 25 years, but always takes care of Serbia because he wants the country to have a greater reputation. “I want us to be respected both in the East and in the West. You deserve it because with your choice you enabled Serbia to move forward,” Vucic said, addressing a crowd.

Vucic: Serbia needs to be present at the Sofia summit (Politika)

On Tuesday, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said in Bucharest that Serbia had to send a representative to the EU-Western Balkans summit in Sofia on 17 May. “We need to be present there,” Vucic said to reporters after a meeting with the Romanian, Bulgarian and Greek prime ministers. He said he hadn’t decided yet who would go to the conference, explaining that he was invited, but that he would make the decision after a meeting with Serbian Prime Minister Ana

Brnabic. “You can’t do that if you know that Europe’s most powerful leaders that everything depends on will be there. Serbia can’t afford that,” Vucic said. He said it was Serbia’s duty to attend. “Do you really think we can stab Bulgaria in the back and say we couldn’t care less, despite the support the country has provided to Serbia? Do you think it’s good that German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron and major European leaders are there, and Serbia isn’t?” Vucic wondered. Commenting on the announced platform of Pristina on the dialogue with Belgrade – which according to media reports allegedly foresees the mutual recognition of Serbia and Kosovo, which is unacceptable for the Serbian side, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said that it was not a good foundation for dialogue and the normalization of relations. “If this is indeed Pristina’s platform, then it remains unclear what the two sides have to discuss and negotiate about,” Vucic said. He added that he had shown documents and facts which were on Serbia’s side to European officials, including the High Representative Federica Mogherini, adding that “only force is not on the side of Serbia”. “We are not weaker than the Albanians, but rather than America,” said Vucic, adding Serbia was not negotiating with Thaci but with the protectors of Kosovo.

Dacic: EU has serious disease; Croatia to face countermeasures (TV Pink/Tanjug/B92)

Kosovo is a priority in all diplomatic activities of Serbia, says Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic. Dacic added that the visit of Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel was important because that country will now have more understanding for Serbia. He stressed that it was therefore important to reach everyone, but that he does not expect that the EU will react differently now. “The EU is suffering from a serious illness, it is deaf and mute when it comes to Serbia. Perhaps the disease is curable, that needs to be worked on,” Dacic told TV Pink. As for the statement made by Blerim Shala, an adviser to Hashim Thaci, who said the Community of Serbian Municipalities (ZSO) could only be formed after the signing of a legally binding agreement, Dacic said he would withdraw his signature from the Brussels agreement because of it. He recalled that Shala was present when the Brussels agreement was signed and that he knows this was not a condition for forming the ZSO. Dacic also recalled that Serbia made numerous compromises, that (Serbs) integrated into Pristina institutions, participated in elections and in the government, but stressed that Pristina has not fulfilled its obligation and formed the ZSO. Dacic also said Serbia will take reciprocal measures in response to Croatia’s decision to ban Serbian Defense Minister Aleksandar Vulin from entering that country. “When it comes to Vulin, I do not think that Serbia will accept such stance from Croatia. We will take countermeasures. The President said reciprocal measures. That means that Serbia will make the same move, and we will discuss it at the next session of the Serbian government,” he said. Commenting on Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic’s statement that Serbia was the aggressor, Dacic said that the only aggressor was the Independent State of Croatia (NDH), which included Serbian towns of Zemun, Sabac, and Novi Sad (during WW2). It is a mistake of Serbia, Dacic said, that no film has been made about (NDH death camp) Jasenovac, which was one of the cruelest camps.

Dacic: Implementation of Brussels deal in Serbia’s interest (Tanjug)

Implementation of the Brussels agreement – not its annulment – is in the interest of Serbia, says Serbian FM Ivica Dacic, noting that the Kosovo issue can only be solved by compromise. The conviction that Serbia can be forced to recognize Kosovo is only making a solution more distant, Dacic told Tanjug.

Joksimovic: Serbia open for continuation of cooperation in region (Beta/Tanjug)

Serbian Minister for EU Integration Jadranka Joksimovic said on Tuesday at the Summit on the South-East European Cooperation Process that Serbia country is open to continuing good, constructive cooperation in the region, but that does not depend only on us. Joksimovic told reporters in Brdo pri Kranju where she participated in the “Future Cooperation in Southeastern Europe” session that Serbia has called on everyone to show greater responsibility in public statements and messages regarding various open issues which still exist in our region.

At the same time, Joksimovic warned that the Brussels agreement, which is a legally binding agreement with the EU guarantee and signature, between Belgrade and Pristina must be implemented as soon as possible, especially when it comes to the formation of the Community of Serb Municipalities (ZSO). Considering that the European Commission’s report mentions that Pristina has made progress in the formation of the Community of Serb municipalities, she underlined that Belgrade has still not seen such progress, but that it expects Pristina to fulfil its share of obligations regarding the Community of Serb municipalities in the next four months.

What does the Sofia declaration state? (RTS)

EU leaders will confirm their commitment to support the Western Balkans at their summit in Sofia and expect greater commitment to democracy and the rule of law, RTS reports. RTS said that it was given access to the draft resolution to be adopted at the EU – Western Balkans summit in the Bulgarian capital Sofia next month. The draft resolution says that the EU will support the countries of the region on their European path and step up its engagement at all levels to transform the region politically and economically, including greater financial and technical aid depending on the progress of the Balkan countries. The EU expects the countries of the region to make democracy and the rule of law their priorities and resolve disputes from the past in a definitive and obliging manner. RTS writes that the declaration will be signed only by EU member states because of Spain’s opposition which means that this will not be a joint declaration by the EU and Western Balkans leaders as originally planned. Despite the compromise with Spain regarding the draft resolution, RTS learns that Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy will not attend the summit and added that there are doubts about the presence of Cyprus. Over the countries that do not recognize Kosovo, there will be no state symbols and names of states at the summit.

Jeremic: Vucic and Thaci discussed in Paris exchange of territories (Vreme)

The leader of the People’s Party (NS) Vuk Jeremic said that Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo President Hashim Thaci have agreed to exchange territories, but this has disappeared since foreign actors, and above all the US, have declared that no change in borders is acceptable, not even with mutual consent. In an interview with Vreme, Jeremic said that Vucic and Thaci met on 13 March in Paris, then a week later in New York, which was a preparation for their joint meeting with Federica Mogherini on 23 March in Brussels. According to Jeremic, Vucic expressed readiness to sign a comprehensive agreement on the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina, which would practically allow Kosovo a chair in the UN, but said he needed to get something tangible in return. His idea was to get a partition of Kosovo, more precisely the north, which Thaci refused, Jeremic said. In the meetings in Paris and New York, claims Jeremic, Vucic went one step further and offered an exchange of territories, i.e., to, besides the chair in the UN, give the municipalities that are in the south of Serbia (Presevo, Bujanovac), and Thaci agreed to that. The problem occurred when foreign actors, primarily the US, said that any change in the boundaries was not acceptable at all, even if the two sides agree to that, as it would create a dangerous precedent, which could then be applied elsewhere in the Balkans. Then a serious problem ensued for Vucic, who, much earlier, pledged to sign an agreement on a comprehensive normalization of relations, and at the moment it seems that he will not get anything at all in return, Jeremic said. The last thing Vucic agreed with Thaci was to make a pre-arranged scene in northern Kosovo with the arrest of Marko Djuric, says Jeremic.

REGIONAL PRESS

Matviyenko meets RS officials led by Dodik; Dodik: Co-op with EU cannot go to detriment of co-op with Russia (RTRS)

A Russian delegation led by Chairwoman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matviyenko paid a visit to Banja Luka on Tuesday. After the official welcoming ceremony, the Russian delegation led by Matviyenko met with a delegation of Republika Srpska (RS), led by RS President Milorad Dodik. During the meeting, Dodik told Matviyenko that the RS is content with the relation with the Russian Federation, adding that the RS is ready to do whatever it takes to put the cooperation at a higher level. Dodik stressed that the RS policy and its relation towards Russia will not change, regardless of requests coming from other sides. Dodik expressed gratitude for Russian support to the RS, in terms of politics, economy and culture. “Our political cooperation is very clear and I want to express gratitude to the President of the Russian Federation, Mr. Vladimir Putin and all his associates for having balanced, objective, honest and right attitude, regarding implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement”. Dodik also warned of occasional obstacles for cooperation with Russia coming from the level of B&H. On behalf of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Matviyenko conveyed special greetings to Dodik and called the RS “a Russian brotherly country”. Matviyenko also expressed gratitude for such warmth welcoming in the RS and the fact that the RS did not turned its back to Russia despite of pressures. “The RS is not only brotherly and a friendly country for Russia; many other things unite us. I can say that nowadays, the RS is a very important Russian partner”.  Speaking about the intentions of the NATO for further enlargement in the rest of Europe, Matviyenko stated: “We are against enlargement of the NATO in Europe. We act against militarization of European states and new division lines that are being created in this way. We find that such moves do not improve but deteriorate security in the European continent”. When it comes to economic-related issues, delegations of the RS and Russia discussed arrival of big, oil companies in the RS and trade exchange. According to Dodik, cooperation with the EU cannot go to detriment of the cooperation with the Russian Federation and “issues of our interest”. “This was a chance to inform Mrs. Matviyenko about our firm stance, presented in the RS Assembly’s resolution on military neutrality”. Following the meeting, delegations of the RS and Russia laid wreaths on the memorial to fallen soldiers of the World War II (WWII)’s NOR. Addressing the RS Assembly, Dodik noted that the visit of the Russian delegation led by Matviyenko is a huge honor for the RS, adding that the visit brings important messages from Russia and Russian President Putin. Dodik added that it is impossible to speak about relations with Russia, without mentioning their role in the Peace Implementation Council and respect for application of the Dayton Peace Agreement. According to Dodik, such approach gives strength to the RS to fight for its original rights. Dodik expressed special gratitude for the Russian veto in the UN SC related to the UK’s proposal of a resolution on Srebrenica, which Dodik assessed as an attempt to declare the Serbs genocidal people. During the visit to the RS Assembly, Dodik handed over the medal of the RS to Matviyenko, for special merits in developing and strengthening of cooperation and political relations between the RS and the Russian Federation, as well as for immense contribution in fight for physical and spiritual survival, affirmation and development of the RS.

Ivanic and Covic disagree with Izetbegovic’s stances on Matviyenko’s statements (ATV)

Prior to its Tuesday visit to Banja Luka, a high-ranking delegation of the Russian Federation led by Chairwoman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matviyenko met with members of B&H Presidency in Sarajevo. In his welcome address Chairman of B&H Presidency Bakir Izetbegovic talked about Matviyenko’s statements in B&H parliament. Izetbegovic was defending the Office of the High Representative (OHR). In a statement, Izetbegovic underlined that he said that conditions for closing down of the OHR have not been fulfilled. He added that once relations among peoples in B&H improve it will be necessary to form domestic mechanisms that will replace the international mechanisms. “We are far from that moment thanks to behavior of some politicians,” explained Izetbegovic. Croat member of B&H Presidency Dragan Covic did not agree with Izetbegovic’s statements. He apologized to Matviyenko due to reactions from Sarajevo to her statements. Also, Covic agreed with her stance that the OHR and foreign judges in the Constitutional Court of B&H should leave this country. Serb member of B&H Presidency Mladen Ivanic said that there is nothing disputable in messages conveyed by Matviyenko. Ivanic stressed that Russia has the right and even the obligation to present its stances about implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement (DPA). Matviyenko met with all three members of the B&H Presidency in Sarajevo on Tuesday. She pointed out that Russia and B&H have real strong ties and over 20 years of good diplomatic relations. She repeated that Russia supports the Dayton Peace Agreement, as a key to keeping the stability and peace in B&H. Izetbegovic commented statements made by Matviyenko on Monday, during the special session of the B&H House of Peoples (B&H HoP). “At the beginning of our meeting I told her that those are sensitive matters, like the sensitive matters between Russia and Ukraine, where B&H officials are quite careful what they say. I told her that friendly states have to refrain themselves from any opinions or interventions. The matters like B&H’s past, OHR’s  presence, presence of international judges in B&H, are not something they can comment lightly and they should be careful with their statements”, said Izetbegovic.

Ivanic deemed Matviyenko’s visit to B&H as the most important visit in the post-Dayton period. Ivanic said that he sees nothing controversial in Matviyenko’s statements. “Criticism we could hear especially in the media in Sarajevo and among the politicians from the rank of Bosniaks is not good, because everything that was said, at least when it comes to B&H and things that should interest us, was more than ok,” Ivanic underlined. To be honest, I have also said on several occasions that the OHR has to be closed. I do not think that this is something disputable since it represents a normal political stance.”

Speech delivered by Matviyenko to B&H parliament sparks strong reactions of B&H politicians (TV1)

A speech delivered by Chairwoman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matviyenko to Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Parliament in Sarajevo on Monday has sparked strong reactions. Mostly Bosniak MPs condemned Matviyenko’s claims about the civil war in B&H and comments on internal circumstances in B&H. SDA MP Sefik Dzaferovic assessed that Matviyenko’s address to B&H Parliament only additionally strengthened stories on the alleged Russian influence in B&H. Dzaferovic argued that Matviyenko abused her speech in B&H Parliament. SBB B&H MPs Mirsad Djonlagic stated that all those who visit B&H should respect this country as guests and pay special attention to what they say and what they do. Djonlagic added that he asked the Presidency of B&H whether they intend to react on this issue or not. Member of the Independent Bloc Sadik Ahmetovic went too far by criticizing Bosniak MPs of failure to leave the session at the time Matviyenko delivered her speech. To remind, SDA MP Halid Genjac left the session and according to SNSD’s MP Dusanka Majkic, this shows that only those who advocate stances of the Bosniak policy, are welcomed in Sarajevo. SDP B&H representative in the B&H House of Representatives (HoR) Sasa Magazinovic stressed that it is absolutely clear that stories about love and respect by the Russian Federation towards B&H are not honest. Politicians from Republika Srpska (RS), on the other hand, see nothing controversial in Matviyenko’s statements, noting that there was no scandal and that Matviyenko only presented political stances. Speaker of the B&H HoR Mladen Bosic (SDS) said that Russia, as a member of the Peace Implementation Council (PIC), is a political player in B&H which not only monitors the situation, but also makes decisions. “Therefore, I would not comment what was said. I expect everyone, including Russian representatives, to respect the Constitution and the Dayton Peace Agreement (DPA),” Bosic emphasized.

OHR reacts to statement of Matviyenko (TV1)

The Office of the High Representative (OHR) reacted to the statement made by Chairwoman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matviyenko during the special session of the Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) House of Peoples (HoP) on Monday. High Representative Valentin Inzko stated that the conditions for the closing of the OHR, set out at the Peace Implementation Council (PIC) Steering Board session in February 2008, also known as the ‘5+2 agenda’ remain in place and have not changed. He added that Russia is a member of PIC and has repeatedly made clear that they fully respect the Dayton Peace Agreement, which includes the mandate of the High Representative as well as the preservation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of B&H. Inzko did not wish to comment Matviyenko’s statement in which she referred to the previous war in B&H as “a civil war”. “There are international courts that have, in many cases before, stated their opinions on whether there was a civil war in B&H or not. They expressed those opinions quite clearly and unequivocally”, said Inzko.

US Embassy comments Matviyenko’s statements (TV1)

The US Embassy commented on Tuesday some of the statements made by Chairwoman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Valentina Matviyenko during her visit to B&H. “False and unfounded accusations of the sort made by Speaker Matviyenko do not deserve specific comment. The United States’ commitment to B&H as a sovereign, multiethnic state and its Euro-Atlantic future is well known and does not require additional explanation.  B&H and its citizens know that the United States is and will always remain a true friend and ally”, reads the statement of the US Embassy.

Kocijancic comments Matviyenko’s statements (Dnevni avaz)

Spokesperson of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Maja Kocijancic commented the visit of Chairwoman of Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko and her statements regarding the Office of the High Representative and the position of B&H, and she told the daily that B&H is an integral part of Europe, its history, geography and culture. “The EU is here; the door is open. You have chosen the EU and the Union supports that direction. In order to reach the goal, it is necessary to have unity, reforms and constant and consistent actions. That road is not going to be a simple one, or an easy one,” stated Kocijancic and added that the EU and its members are the biggest investors in B&H and the region.

Covic: We will offer Bosniaks solution today, we do not accept improvisations (Dnevni list)

Croat member of the B&H Presidency Dragan Covic told the media in Mostar on Tuesday that representatives of the Croat People’s Assembly (HNS) have met with US Ambassador to B&H Maureen Cormack and Head of the EU Delegation to B&H Lars-Gunnar Wiegmark to discuss changes to the Law on Elections of B&H. According to Covic, “our position is that the Law on Elections must be changed and that we only have some ten days or so until the elections in B&H are called”. “I am convinced that the elections will be held, and whether we will reach a compromise among the Croat and Bosniak parties – for us it is possible”, said Covic. The Croat member of the Presidency added he will on Wednesday offer Bosniak parties a solution regarding the Federation of B&H House of Peoples and the Presidency of B&H. “Any kind of improvisation among us are unacceptable”, noted Covic. He is also carried as saying that Chairman of the Presidency of B&H Bakir Izetbegovic is making unilateral statements, without consent from other two Presidency members. “The other day, during a session of the Presidency, I was readings what I had said about the Islamic Community, and none of it is true”, said Covic.

UN prosecutor seeks life term for Karadzic at appeal hearing (Hayat)

Two-day appeal hearing in the case against first Republika Srpska (RS) President Radovan Karadzic was completed on Tuesday before the Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals (MICT). Both the defense and prosecution appealed the first instance verdict by which the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) sentenced Karadzic to 40 years in prison for war crimes in B&H, in the first instance process in March 2016. Unlike Karadzic and his defense team who said on Monday that they expect the acquitting verdict, the prosecution demands lifetime imprisonment for Karadzic and the sentencing verdict for crimes in seven B&H municipalities. Prosecutor Katrina Gustafson reminded of Karadzic’s statement according to which torturing and extermination of non-Serbs conducted by Serb forces was actually caused by other side, stressing that this statement confirms the existence of crimes and he also tried to justify mass killing and molestations carried out by his forces. Gustafson concluded that Karadzic had the genocide intention and a key role in the joint criminal enterprise, and he also publicly threatened with extermination of Muslims. As an example of the most obvious genocide, Gustafson reminded of imprisoning, murders and other crimes against thousands of people in Prijedor war camps. She also said, among other things, that Karadzic used his authorizations to approve mass crimes, until the international community forced him to change this course after war camps in Prijedor were revealed.

B&H takes over rotating presidency of SEECP (TV1)

A summit of the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) gathered prime ministers of the south-east European countries, who discussed the EU enlargement, security, and other issues of interest. B&H took over the rotating presidency of the process on Tuesday in Ljubljana. Chairman of the B&H Council of Ministers (B&H CoM) Denis Zvizdic attended the ministerial meeting in Slovenia’s mountain resort Brdo kod Kranja and he emphasized that B&H will support the strengthening of human resources and help the fight against terrorism within the framework of this mission, in order to make progress in the region in the aspect of maintaining peace and stability. Zvizdic said that B&H has the capacity and the desire to join the forces that will ensure Southeast Europe to become a positive example of successful regional cooperation, infrastructural connectivity and friendly relations. According to him, the SEECP provides an opportunity to everyone to use dialogue at all levels for exchange of experience and learned lessons and to speed up the European integration for the countries in the region that are still in ‘the waiting room’. “B&H has a clear and strong interest in a stable and prosperous Europe,” said Zvizdic, adding that the EU membership is the most important priority of B&H’s foreign policy and its strategic goal. Zvizdic emphasized that B&H aims to become a candidate for EU membership by the end of 2018 or early 2019. The meeting in Brdo kod Kranja was also attended by prime ministers of Croatia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Montenegro and Kosovo, as well as representatives of the EU, Serbia, Albania, Romania, Greece and Macedonia.

EC: Border is not condition for Peljesac Bridge (Dnevni list)

Spokesman for the European Commission (EC) Johannes Bahrke said that the EC closely analyzed the documentation submitted by Croatia regarding co-financing of the bridge and checked if all conditions and procedures, as stipulated by the Cohesion Policy, have been met. “On basis of additional information submitted by Croatia, the European Commission concluded there are no open legal issues with this project of Cohesion Policy when it comes to commission and internal procedures of the EC,” said Bahrke.

President believes positive changes have already occurred in relations with Serbia (Hina)

Politicians in Croatia and Serbia have to show that they are responsible and mature enough not to be drawn into a spiral of verbal violence and continue on the path of dialogue for the benefit of both peoples, President Grabar-Kitarovic said on Tuesday, assessing that positive changes have already occurred.

President talks with leader of Croats in Serbia (Hina)

Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic received the leader of the Democratic Alliance of Vojvodina Croats (DSHV) Tomislav Zigmanov on Monday in Zagreb for talks on how the issues are being resolved to improve the status of ethnic Croats in Serbia, according to a press release issued by the Office of the President. The talks between Grabar-Kitarovic and Zigmanov on these topics ensued after an official visit of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic to Croatia in February when the two heads of state said they would like to see respective ethnic minorities perceiving the countries where they live as their homelands in which they can exercise their minority and human rights. The Croatian president and the ethnic Croat leader also discussed the impact of the latest developments on the ethnic Croat community. Zigmanov and Vojvodina politician Nenad Canak were targets of outbursts of invective made by Serbian lawmaker Vojislav Seselj after he was given ten years imprisonment by the United Nations Mechanism for International Criminal Tribunals (MICT) for war crimes against non-Serbs. Seselj said, among other things, that he was ready to repeat offences he was found guilty of. In addition, Seselj’s disgraceful behavior in the Serbian Assembly made the visiting Croatian delegation to cut short it visit this past Monday. Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandrokovic thus had to cancel his visit to Vojvodina Croats.

Plenkovic: Relations with Slovenia are not dramatic (Hina)

Despite the disputes, the current state of relations with Slovenia is not dramatic, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic said on Tuesday when asked to comment on relations with the neighboring country in light of the legal proceedings Ljubljana has launched regarding the border arbitration and the issue of old foreign currency savings accounts held by Croatian citizens in the now defunct Ljubljanska Banka. Addressing the press after a summit meeting of countries included in the Southeast European Cooperation Process (SEECP), Plenkovic commented on the current situation with Slovenia saying that he was sorry that contentious issues could spill on to the people, which now is the case with fishermen in both countries who fish in Savudrija Bay or Piran Bay as it is known in Slovenia. As far as the border dispute is concerned and with regard to the arbitration ruling and Slovenia’s announcement that it would sue Croatia to the European Union Court of Justice if Croatia doesn’t agree to implement the arbitration decision, Plenkovic repeated Croatia’s firm position that although it entered the proceedings in good faith, it left the arbitration procedure because it had become compromised.

Plenkovic recalled that last year Croatia offered Slovenia a framework for a bilateral agreement about the “only real outstanding issue,” and that within that framework it would have been possible to find a “just and mutually acceptable solution.” Asked about Slovenia’s announcement that it would block Croatia’s entry into the Schengen Area if Croatia did not agree to implement the arbitration ruling, Plenkovic said that blockades were not a good way to resolve issues and that this move would not be good for Slovenia either in whose interest it would be for Croatia to enter the Schengen Area as soon as possible in order to supervise illegal migrations. He added that Croatia will fulfill all the technical criteria to enter the Schengen Area and that the aim was to do that by 2020 when Croatia is set to chair the European Union. Plenkovic thanked his Slovenian counterpart, Prime Minister Miro Cerar, whom he met briefly on the margins of the summit, for the good organization of the summit and good choice of topics which Slovenia as the summit’s host underscored, particularly assistance to countries in the region on their journey to Euro-Atlantic integration. Cerar said that he exchanged a few words with Plenkovic but that there was not any opportunity to discuss problematic issues in detail. Croatia’s Prime Minister met on the margins of the summit with Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Prime Minister Denis Zvizdic and invited him to visit Croatia in May to discuss overall relations between the two countries. In reference to reservations in Sarajevo over the construction of the Peljesac Bridge, Plenkovic said that there was no doubt that the bridge would be located on Croatian state territory and that it will be built as planned. The talks with Kosovo Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj focused on increasing economic cooperation and Croatian investments in Kosovo and on the Croatian minority living in Kosovo, Plenkovic explained. Asked about announcements that regional authorities in Austria’s Carinthia region might ban the commemoration in Bleiburg in May because of Ustasha symbols and because the extreme European right is allegedly gathering there, and whether Croatia’s parliament should withdraw its sponsorship of that event, Plenkovic said he did not see any reason for parliament not to sponsor the event however, people attending Bleiburg have to adhere to Austria’s laws. Speaking about the latest tension with Serbia in light of the incident caused by Vojislav Seselj during the visit by Croatia’s parliamentary delegation to Belgrade and later statements by Serbia’s Defence Minister Aleksandar Vulin, Plenkovic said that Croatia and Serbia have to defuse the tensions after the positive steps that had occurred recently in their bilateral relations. He reiterated however that the decision by Croatia’s delegation to cut short its visit to Serbia after Croatia’s flag had been desecrated was the right and only thing to do in those circumstances.

Foreign Minister meets with UN General Assembly President (Hina)

Croatian Foreign and European Affairs Minister Marija Pejcinovic Buric held talks with the chairman of the United Nations’ General Assembly, Miroslav Lajcak, in New York on Monday on the current issues and on possibilities for the international community to step up its efforts aimed at making Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) more stable country that abides by its principle of having three constituent peoples. Lajcak advocated stronger engagement of the international community in making B&H stable and prosperous, according to a press release issued by the Croatian foreign ministry. During her North American tour, the Croatian minister attended an open debate held in the UN Security Council on the topic of young people as powerful agents for ensuring peace and security. Pejcinovic Buric and Lajcak also discussed possibilities for making the UN activities stronger in peace building and maintenance.

Czech Republic, Greece, Georgia and Uzbekistan: Congrats to Djukanovic (CDM)

Presidents of the Czech Republic, Greece, Georgia and Uzbekistan – Milos Zeman, Prokopis Pavlopoulos, Giorgi Margravesvili and Shavkat Mirziyev – congratulated President Milo Djukanovic on his recent electoral victory. Mr. Zeman emphasized the traditionally friendly relations between Montenegro and the Czech Republic, which are successfully developing. The President of Greece sent President Djukanovic the best wishes for success in carrying out the presidential mandate. Mr. Margravesvili emphasized that citizens voted for the progress, peace, stability and security of Montenegro, as well as for its future successes. The President of the Republic of Uzbekistan cordially congratulated saying that Uzbekistan considers Montenegro a prospective partner in the Balkans region.

Tusk: Montenegro is in good negotiating form (CDM)

Prime Minister Dusko Markovic and President of the European Council Donald Tusk noted at a meeting in Podgorica today that Montenegro is progressing in the process of European integration, successfully meeting its obligations and is thus a good example for other Western Balkans countries. “Under your leadership in the integration process, Montenegro is a leading candidate country. There is no doubt that you are in a good negotiating form and present a positive example”, Mr. Tusk said to the PM. “We have no reason to question the methodology or content of the Progress Report, nor criticize the European Union’s approach; on the contrary”, the PM added at the meeting. “After fifteen years, we will again be among European leaders. The Agenda of the Summit in Sofia is set realistically and objectively. The region must use this opportunity”, PM Markovic said adding frequent meetings of regional and EU leaders helped elevate not only the level of trust but also understanding common values and views on priorities, primarily the development of infrastructure. He particularly thanked Mr. Jean-Claude Juncker, Mrs. Federica Mogherini and Mr. Johannes Hahn for their commitment to the Western Balkans region. Mr. Tusk will stay in Montenegro for another day and then travel to Serbia.

Markovic: Entire region must focus on EU & NATO integration (CDM)

High Representatives of the countries of Southeast Europe adopted at the Summit of the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) held in Brdo pri Kranju a Charter that strongly confirmed the commitment of cooperation with a special focus on the European perspective of the region, the preservation of security and stability, cooperation among young people and the connection in the field of digital economy. Montenegrin Prime Minister Dusko Markovic said at the Summit that the entire region must remain focused on EU and NATO integration processes.

“We are convinced that our NATO membership will have a positive effect on the long-term stability and security of the region”, said Prime Minister Markovic. He stressed that the forthcoming EU-Western Balkans Summit in Sofia and the London summit will be an opportunity to productively discuss more important issues for the region, like integration, economic stability, security and political legacy, with a focus on the European perspective of the Western Balkans and concrete regional infrastructure projects. The Summit was also used to decide on the forthcoming presidencies, which were given to Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) and Kosovo – one year each. Alongside Premier Markovic and his host, the Prime Minister of Slovenia Miroslav Cerar, Prime Ministers of Bulgaria Boyko Borisov, Croatia Andrej Plenkovic and Kosovo Ramus Haradinaj, Chairman of the Council of Ministers of B&H Denis Zvizdic and other senior officials from Albania, Serbia, Moldova, Romania, Greece and Turkey also participated in the Summit.

Hahn expects name solution in next two weeks (MIA)

The European Commissioner for European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, Johannes Hahn, expects for the Athens-Skopje name dispute to be solved in the next 15 days. “There must be at least one solution which would give way to the start of the EU accession talks for fYRoM.  I believe everybody agrees that it will be good for the country and the entire Western Balkan region” Hahn said in his address at the European Parliament Committee for Foreign Affairs. Macedonia has successfully overcome the deep political crisis, Han said, and ‘is making progress in implementing the reforms and building good-neighborly relations”. He however warned that ‘there’s no time for complacency’.

Greek MoFA urges Hahn to refrain from giving wrong image of name talks (MIA)

The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged EU Commissioner Johannes Hahn to refrain from giving a wrong image of the name talks. “We call on Commissioner Hahn to stop giving a wrong image of the negotiations which, as it seems, he does not understand. The least he can do is to stop undermining them,” reads the press release. Earlier, Hahn told the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs he expects the Athens-Skopje name dispute to be solved in the next 15 days.

Zaev says difficult to solve name issue in two weeks (MIA)

Prime Minister Zoran Zaev does not believe that the name issue can be solved in two weeks, referring to an earlier statement by Enlargement Commissioner Johannes Hahn claiming that Athens and Skopje can reach agreement in the coming fortnight. “Commissioner Hahn is a friend of Macedonia and God willing he has information that talks can finish in a couple of weeks. I also wish this, but do not believe it is possible. The countries’ foreign ministers will meet tomorrow and I know what discussions will focus on and the projected outcome. In general, I expect that maximum efforts will be invested up to the EU Council decision, because a solution by then is the definite guarantee for an accession talks date,” PM Zaev told reporters at the joint press conference with former NATO chief George Robertson. Regarding the NATO invitation, he said it is acquired by automatism. “I would be nice to solve the issue in two weeks, because this would activate the automatic NATO invitation through ratification in Alliance member-states. I would rather say in the weeks to come, since two weeks is too soon,” added Zaev.

Lord Robertson said it is up to Macedonia, its leaders and its people to decide on their own.

“People should think about their future. Certain issues are very important for future generations, who expect their predecessors to lay the ground so they can reap the fruits,” underlined Robertson.

Zaev: Let’s work together for Macedonia to start EU accession talks (MIA)

Macedonia has greeted the European Commission unconditional recommendation for commencing the EU accession talks, progress report’s messages and now is the time to keep on, intensify the reform process, Prime Minister Zoran Zaev said Tuesday at a session of the parliamentary Committee on European Affairs. The government is already setting the framework of the new reform plan 18, which will be defined in cooperation with the European Commission, Zaev told the session, at which EU Ambassador Samuel Zbogar presented the latest EC report on Macedonia’s progress towards the EU membership. By the meeting of the European Council in June, the government will work on setting up a team that will be in charge of the accession negotiations, Zaev said. He believes that Macedonia will obtain a date for commencing the EU accession talks this June, which means opening of the most difficult chapters of the EU Acquis – judiciary and fundamental rights; justice, freedom and security. Hence the government has already started to work as a lot is yet to be done, the PM said. Macedonia deserves the unconditional EC recommendation, EU Ambassador Zbogar said.

He called on the country to unite in order to be more successful in dealing with the challenges ahead, namely implementing of reforms and settling the name dispute with Greece. A decision on commencing EU accession talks is unanimous one, it requires the agreement of all 28 member states, Zbogar said. The session was also attended by Daniel Serwer, professor at the Washington-based Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and expert on Balkan affairs, representatives of the diplomatic corps, government, The Macedonian Academy of Science and Art and NGOs.

Ohrid Group to support Macedonia on road to EU and NATO (MIA)

Prime Minister Zoran Zaev and former NATO secretary-general, Lord George Robertson promoted Tuesday the Ohrid Group as support to Macedonia’s road towards Alliance and EU membership. The informal group is comprised of members with impressive background and diverse political background. “The activities of the group and its members support our efforts to build a democratic, stable and prosperous state. They are here to support Macedonia’s EU and NATO membership,” said PM Zaev at a joint press conference with Lord Robertson.

Besides Robertson, the group also includes former EU foreign policy Chief Javier Solana, former Swedish PM and foreign minister Carl Bildt and renowned diplomats Robert Gelbard, Alain Le Roy, Wolfgang Ischinger, Damon Wilson etc. Robertson said the name was chosen because the town of Ohrid has great significance for the country, taking into account that the Ohrid Framework Agreement was signed there, but also the fact it is a UNESCO site. “The country that was on the verge of a civil war has become a country knocking on the door of Europe, understanding the need for a better future,” stressed Robertson. He added that the group would advise the Government and the ministers but would also be available for the opposition and the President.

Shcherbak: Macedonia to seriously consider NATO accession (MIA)

Every country has a choice regarding its national security, be it NATO membership or military neutrality, said Russian Ambassador Oleg Shcherbak on Tuesday. “Every country should decide at a referendum and respect the will of the majority over its membership in certain alliances. There are successful military neutral countries in Europe and such approach is rational,” Ambassador Shcherbak told students at the Skopje-based Faculty of Security. According to him, efficient security in the 21st century can be built on the basis of collective security and through joint efforts by both small and big countries. Shcherbak said NATO is a military-political bloc created by the United States with one goal – opposing the Warsaw Pact. However, even 30 years after the Pact’s dissolution, NATO is continuing to spread to the East. “Macedonia’s neutral status can result in openness for all and achieve the citizens’ economic and social interests without having to bear the burden of European solidarity. It is detrimental for national interests when solidarity is placed above common sense,” stressed the Russian Ambassador. He referred to the propaganda that depicts Russia as the aggressor, while Balkan states are forced to make an artificial choice between the East and the West. “The effects of this are well-known to the Ukraine, which was put under such ultimatum, resulting in unrest and civil war. Unfortunately, our western partners have not learned anything from this,” said Shcherbak. He stressed claims that Macedonia is in the line of fire between the United States and Russia aim at isolating the countries’ peoples and increasing russiofobia. “This is a dangerous game and we would not like for Macedonia to be dragged into it, the people to be used as cannon fodder and its territory as a NATO base,” stressed Shcherbak. He said the claim that NATO membership would bring peace and stability to Macedonia is a myth. “I am not saying that NATO is evil, only that the consequences of such a step should be properly analysed. Accession to an aggressive alliance is a challenge for every country. Politicians should be aware of their responsibility and think twice before making such a move,” underlined Shcherbak.

Albania’s next challenge, convincing EU members on accession talks (ADN)

The Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama met the President of the Council of Europe, Donald Tusk on Tuesday at the Prime Ministry. The meeting focused on Albania’s path into the European Union as the two stated the commitment of both parties to continue the reforms and steps required to meet the criteria for the opening of the negotiations. During the joint press conference, Rama considered Tusk as the friend of Albanians, stating that Albania has entered a new stage which is the most difficult in the path towards EU. “Tusk has supported Albania’s integration into the EU. During the meeting we focused on the key elements of the process, one of which being the vetting process. President Tusk has always found the right words for us and has always encouraged Albania”, Rama said, adding that the EU integration requires sacrifices and patience. Tusk said that it will be a challenging task to convince all member states. “I have no doubt that it is in the best interest of EU and Albania that the entire Western Balkans region is fully integrated into EU. This process will resemble a hurdles race rather than a motorway but the full integration remains our common destiny and you may rely on me in this complex process.  Although I am careful, I can say that I am optimistic when dealing with a long term and short term perspective,” he said. Mr. Tusk concluded praising the religious tolerance in Albania stating that “you are more European than some in the EU”.

EP President, Tajani supports the opening of Negotiations (ADN)

The European Parliament President, Antonio Tajani, has stated his support for the opening of negotiations with Albania.  He made this clear during a meeting with the Albanian Parliament Speaker, Gramoz Ruci. The Speaker of the Albanian Parliament is currently in Tallinn, Estonia where he is taking part in the Conference of Chairmen of Parliamentary Groups of European member states. Accompanied by Socialist MP Taulant Balla, Ruci is reported to have had a meeting with Tajani.  As reported by the Parliament of Albania, Tajani congratulated the Speaker on the positive recommendation given by the European Commission for the opening of membership negotiations. “In the weeks to come we shall take into consideration the recommendation for the opening of negotiations between the European Union and Albania. Albania has made significant progress and for this reason I support the opening of membership negotiations”, the EP head is reported to have said.

INTERNATIONAL MEDIA SOURCES

Bender: EU needs to clearly define accession criteria on rule of law (European Western Balkans, by Nikola Burazer, 25 April 2018)

Interview with Kristof Bender, Deputy Chairman at the European Stability Initiative (ESI) and a visiting fellow at the Institute for Human Sciences (IWM) in Vienna. The interview was done at the 10th Anniversary event of the European Fund for the Balkans, held in Belgrade on 16-17 April, where Bender was one of the speakers.

European Western Balkans: Do you think that the EU has shown a more serious commitment towards enlargement in the Western Balkans with the European Commission’s Western Balkans Strategy?

Kristof Bender: I think the strategy is a positive development and a step in the right direction. Putting the focus on the rule of law and economic development is good. There are a number of elements that could be very useful, for example the idea of having more in-depth assessment of institutions, in particular in the rule of law area, a special focus on public procurement and more attention to education.

But it is a strategy document, a piece of paper. What eventually will count is not the strategy, but what will be done with it.

EWB: Many believe that the Strategy encourages Serbia and Montenegro, while other countries are somehow left behind. Would you agree with this assessment?

KB: For everyone working on this issue it is clear that the year 2025 is an indication. There is absolutely no guarantee that these two countries will join. There is no automatism.

I personally think that it is very ambitious. No country should be either very encouraged or discouraged by this date for Montenegro and Serbia. Much more important will be how successfully the countries will work on reforms.

EWB: Why do you think the EU has rediscovered its desire towards enlargement? Do you think it’s the fear from Russia that’s driving this?

KB: Maybe it is more a realization in some key member states that the EU should not be complacent, a realisation that it is not enough to say that some day in the distant future the Balkan countries will join.

In the decade after the Balkan conflicts the EU managed to provide a vision for a better future in the Balkans, a future as more democratic and more prosperous countries inside the EU. This inspired real change. It also made it easier for political leaders to make difficult choices.

Take for example of Macedonian government after the conflict in 2001, in particular the ethnic Macedonian leaders. They made a lot of concessions to the Albanian minority, not only symbolically, but also regarding employment. This required leadership. What helped was a credible vision that things will get better and that Macedonia will move towards EU membership. When the EU perspective of Macedonia became blocked due to the name dispute with Greece, this vision fell apart. We all know the negative effects on the reform process, the political climate and democratic standards.

Today, unfortunately, the accession process of several Western Balkan countries is blocked by political factors which have nothing to do with membership criteria. This has weakened the European Union and the credibility of the accession process. It has also undermined the vision of a better future for the Western Balkans.

I think there is some realization of this dynamic in some of the key EU member states. But it is an uphill struggle. The situation is very different from the last enlargement round in 2004, where you had a number of big EU countries who were determined to make enlargement happen. Today, those who believe in the merits of the accession process, those inside and those still outside of the EU, will need to work very hard to make it happen.

EWB: Talking about these political obstacles, how do you see this “comprehensive normalization” relations between Serbia and Kosovo? There has been a mention of this date for finishing the normalization of relations process in the first draft of the Strategy, so there is some kind of momentum coming from the EU for resolving this as soon as possible. Why do you think this is the case?

KB: The Kosovo issue has been with us ever since the Yugoslav wars. For the European Union and for Kosovo it’s a huge problem. With 5 EU member states not recognizing Kosovo, Kosovo has no enlargement perspective. Spain has made this very clear now.

This is a huge problem for the accession process, which allegedly depends on merit. So of course the Commission has a strong interest – actually everyone who cares for the region should have a strong interest – that Kosovo becomes unblocked. The question is: Can this be achieved now in the current circumstances?

President Vučić seems to suggest that the solution lies in some sort of swap of territory. I am convinced this will not happen. Neither the Kosovar parliament will never accept this. Nor will Germany, France, the Netherlands or most other EU member states. Also practically I cannot see how this could happen. If defining a border line between Kosovo and Montenegro in uninhabited terrain was so difficult, how should inhabited territories to be swapped be determined?

EWB: Taking all into account, do you think that Kosovo has an EU future?

KB: In the current circumstances Kosovo has no membership perspective. This is not to say it will not get one someday, but currently it does not. For Kosovo the formal accession process has hit a wall. Formally there is no way to move forward for Kosovo now.

EWB: Which may explain why it’s urgent for some countries to finish the normalization process…

KB: Of course. It is a tragedy that Kosovo, the country which in many respects lags the furthest behind, is offered the least support to catch up with the rest, and experiences the biggest obstacles to move forward. It does not make sense.

EWB: Much has been said about the backslide of democracy and “stabilitocracy” in the Western Balkans, but there seem to be no major changes in EU approach. Do you think that there will be actions in this regard?

KB: Rule of law is a priority for the European Commission. One of the weaknesses of these efforts, however, is that there are very few concrete European rule of law standards. In other areas, from environment protection to consumer protection there are very detailed criteria and standards. For the rule of law we have some core values. But when we talk about how institutions should look like, there are no clear rules.

In the new Strategy there are a number of things which I think go in the right direction.

One is the idea of having more in-depth reports using clear and straightforward language in addressing weaknesses in institutions related to rule of law. This has been done very well in Macedonia by a team led by former EU official Reinhard Priebe, in particular related to civilian control of security services and the judiciary. To take this approach and apply it to all countries and to more areas would be very helpful.

Then there is a special focus on public procurement, which I think is good. Corruption can arrive in so many different forms, but putting the focus on public procurement, where the state spends its money, is a very good step.

It would be even better to define as clearly as possible which criteria countries aspiring to EU membership will have to meet. For public procurement, but also for other areas. The more the better. The Commission then should put more resources into assessing in-depth, by specialised teams, how the countries are doing related to these lists of criteria. It should do this for all West Balkan countries, including those who have not started negotiations yet. And then it should communicate the results in a clear, understandable and comparable form and language.

This would be a huge improvement over the current country reports. Now these are difficult to understand. They do not tell the reader where a country actually stands regarding reforms and how it compares to its neighbours.

Clearly communicated quality assessments following lists of clear criteria for all countries would allow journalists, politicians and interest groups to better understand the reform process in their countries and to pressure for change.

EWB: Let’s make a thought experiment. It’s now 2025 and Western Balkans states have adjusted their legislation with the acqui. Do you think that with these political elites in power – “Balkan strongmen” or semi-authoritarian leaders – these countries could actually join the EU? Is there a point where the member states will say “no, we do not want these people leading their countries into the EU”?

KB: I think that if respect for the rule of law and basic democratic values remains on the current level, no country of the Western Balkans will join the European Union.

In the end, all EU members have to agree for a new country to join. So every applicant country has to convince all EU members that it is good for the Union to accept this new member. Increasing concerns about the rule of law in Hungary and Poland mean that any future member will have to be very well prepared in this key area.