LOCAL PRESS

 

Vucic: It's boiling. No one will put up with their terror anymore (B92)

 

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said that the situation in Kosovo and Metohija has reached the boiling point. "Personally, I can't take it anymore physically, I can't sleep at night, because unlike you, I know what's happening in the north of Kosovo. It's... Literally everything is boiling. Children are prepared to die, which we have to prevent. They are fed up with Kurti, they are fed up with everything. No one will put up with them anymore, nor their terror. What will they eat? What will we do with the milk, since the trucks cannot pass? It is a terribly difficult situation. We will protect our country," said Vucic. He pointed out that he spoke with representatives of Quint countries about how to de-escalate the situation in Kosovo and Metohija. "We have discussed all the important issues, the arrest of three men armed to the teeth in the territory of Serbia proper. We also talked about new bans on the entry of Serbian goods and Serbian people with license plates from Serbia, which is a par excellence precedent. We talked with Quint and EU representatives about de-escalating such political relations, and whether we succeed in this does not depend on Serbia, because Serbia has not done anything to escalate those relations," said Vucic. President Vucic also said that Albin Kurti himself admitted that he violated international law by declaring that the three arrested Albanians were 300 meters from the administrative border with Serbia, considering that according to the military-technical agreement they must report approaching a kilometer from the border. Vucic asked what the three arrested were doing on the territory of Serbia with long barrels. According to him, the arrested said that they were looking for mushrooms and that their GPS was out of order. He said that he offered for inspection the footage of the Serbian soldiers and that they were 19.5 kilometers away from the administrative border by land, or 5.1 kilometers by air. "We are ready to submit all the recordings, all the records and to bring in experts to give a polygraph to our soldiers. We would ask them two questions - did you make an arrest and did you make an arrest in the territory of central Serbia or the AP of Kosovo and Metohija," Vucic said. As he pointed out, this is how a serious state behaves, not a quasi-state that disfigures someone they don't like. At the press conference after the conversation with the President of Slovenia Natasa Pirc Musar in the Palace of Serbia, he said that he wanted to tell the people of Slovenia that not a single Albanian was shot, not a single Albanian was wounded, but six Serbs in the last six months and that this should be taken into account. "At the protests that were said to be violent in Zvecan, no Albanian or anyone else was shot, but the Serb Dragisa Galjak was shot twice. Nobody is interested in whether anyone was arrested for that, but that's why Rados Petrovic and Dusan Obrenovic were arrested and those who were beaten up, and it is seen that they didn't do anything, but sat peacefully at that protest, so no one is worried about it. Everyone knows that, KFOR Commander, Quint countries, EU representatives," said Vucic.

 

Vucic thanks bin Zayed for his engagement towards resolution of issues (Tanjug/RTV)

 

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic spoke on Thursday in Belgrade with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan about current developments in Kosovo and Metohija and thanked him for his engagement to date towards peaceful resolution of all outstanding issues. "The partnership and the friendship between our countries are based, above all, on mutual respect and understanding, and we will together continue to advance economic, bilateral and all other forms of cooperation to the benefit of the citizens of Serbia and the UAE," Vucic wrote in a post on his Instagram profile after the meeting with bin Zayed, who is on a one-day working visit to Belgrade. Vucic added that he had again thanked bin Zayed for inviting him to a UN climate summit to be hosted by the UAE and noted that Serbia was fully committed to investing in projects that would help to mitigate the consequences of climate change.

 

Brnabic: I will not propose dismissal of Gasic (RTV)

 

Serbian MPs started yesterday a debate on the proposal for a vote of no confidence regarding Minister of Interior Affairs Bratislav Gasic. submitted by a group of opposition deputies, and the session is attended by Prime Minister Ana Brnabic, as well as Minister Gasic. The head of the parliamentary group of the People's Party Miroslav Aleksic, who officially submitted the proposal, demanded Gasic's responsibility after mass shootings in Serbia, noting that no one is saying anyone is guilty, but responsible. Brnabic asked during the discussion what the personal responsibility of Minister Gasic is supposed to be. She told the opposition that this session requested by opposition deputies would not have been held at all if the ruling coalition had not first voted in favor of the agenda, and then provided a quorum for it to take place. "This quorum showed in the best way how much you really care to talk about these things. The request for Gasic's dismissal is one of your basic requests here, as well as during the protested, so is it possible that for two days you, as the organizers of the protest, cannot gather (in the parliament) to have a quorum to discuss things," asked Brnabic. She stressed that this shows disrespect towards those people who walk and protest every day, but also towards the institutions. Brnabic said that she carefully noted down everything that Aleksic was saying for 38 minutes and that at no point did she hear what exactly Gasic's responsibility was. "The only thing would be if you think we should arrest everyone as a preventive measure, then there will be no more crime, everyone will be in prison. Citizens will have to wait for you to come to power to have that kind of democracy, free society and the rule of law, so that like in 2009, you can politically replace all judges overnight and appoint your own prosecutors," said Brnabic. Brnabic added that it is not realistic that demands made during protests against violence should be met in the street, and she also said that the deputies making them should come to work in the Assembly where that should be discussed. Brnabic said that when there were problems with securing the quorum, neither Radomir Lazovic, Djordje Miketic, Nebojsa Zelenovic, nor Sinisa Kovacevic were present in the Assembly... After several warnings, parliament speaker Vladimir Orlic issued a warning to Aleksandar Jovanovic Cuta, who was heckling the prime minister during her speech.

 

Dacic: Constant escalation suits Kurti, we want peace (TV Pink)

 

Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic said on Friday constant escalation in Kosovo and Metohija suited Pristina's PM Albin Kurti, while Serbia wanted peace and stability as the survival of Serbs in the province was its most important objective. Speaking to TV Pink, Dacic said Pristina was doing everything in its power to provoke a reaction by Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija that would get them into a conflict with KFOR and lead to a severe reaction against Serbia by the international community. "It seems that a day or a week without causing any new incidents is a bad day or a week for Kurti. I think we have reached a point from which there is nowhere else to go, in the sense that the Serbs are forced to fight for their bare existence ...because people are being arrested and shot at, and the basic human and civil rights are being violated," Dacic said. Commenting on a recent arrest of three officers of Pristina's special police forces in the territory of central Serbia, Dacic said they had had no right to be on the location of the arrest and that the incursion was a serious criminal offence. Dacic dismissed as untrue excuses that they had ended up there by coincidence. Even if Kurti's claims that they were 300 m away from the administrative line were true, they should not have been there as that is contrary to the Kumanovo Agreement, and only KFOR units are allowed to patrol the area, Dacic noted. "I think they now have to deal with the problem of how to explain why those police officers were in the territory of central Serbia," he said. "Evidently, Pristina is facing a series of demands Kurti does not want to fulfil at all - constant escalation is what suits him, while peace, stability and having no incidents is what suits us because the survival of our people is the most important to us," Dacic said. Speaking about the situation in the north of Kosovo and Metohija, Dacic said the international community should "exert pressure towards de-escalation and a withdrawal of mayors and police forces and a release of all arrested Serbs".

 

Urgent statement of the Ministry of Defense after an arrest of Kurti's special forces (B92)

 

The Ministry of Defense of Serbia announces that the Army did not participate in yesterday's arrest of three armed members of the so-called "Kosovo Police". "The insinuations of the Prime Minister of the Provisional Institutions of Self-Government in Pristina that the Serbian Army was involved in the "kidnapping of three Kosovo police officers" within the territory of Kosovo and Metohija are just a continuation of the campaign of lies, manipulation and illegal violence perpetrated against the Serbs by the Pristina authorities." As they point out, the Serbian Armed Forces carry out the tasks of controlling the Land Security Zone and securing the administrative line with Kosovo and Metohija in full compliance with Resolution 1244 of the United Nations Security Council, Military-Technical and all other signed agreements. "In the implementation of these tasks, the Serbian Army closely cooperates with other security forces of the Republic of Serbia and KFOR, with whom it maintains professional contacts at all levels in order to monitor the situation on the ground and preserve a safe and secure environment," they announced. They emphasize that "in accordance with the Military-Technical Agreement, which defined the deployment of international security forces in our southern province, agreements were signed specifying the actions of KFOR and the security forces of the Republic of Serbia on both sides along the administrative line with Kosovo and Metohija". "It is about the Agreement on temporary operational procedures for cooperation and coordination on both sides along the administrative line with Kosovo and Metohija and instructions for its implementation. The said agreement gave approval to the forces of the Republic of Serbia to be in the Ground Security Zone, established procedures for cooperation, coordination and overcoming of conflicts and it was agreed that the parties to the agreement will prevent illegal crossings of the administrative line. These agreements do not recognize forces other than KFOR and the forces of the Serbian Army and the police, from which it follows that the presence of other armed persons or formations near the administrative line is inadmissible", it was stated in the announcement. They say that they strongly condemn attempts to destabilize the security situation in Kosovo."Strictly condemning all attempts to destabilize the security situation in Kosovo and Metohija, we emphasize that the Serbian Armed Forces remain unwaveringly committed to the professional and responsible execution of tasks in the Ground Security Zone, in accordance with the assigned missions and tasks and all signed agreements aimed at preserving peace and stability", it is emphasized in the announcement.

 

KFOR sends team to area where Kosovo police troopers were arrested (N1)

 

KFOR said on Thursday that its personnel were not in the area where three Kosovo police troopers were arrested by the Serbian police. “The NATO-led KFOR mission was not in the area when three Kosovo police officers were arrested by the Serbian police yesterday. KFOR has sent a team to the area and established contacts with representatives of the institutions in Kosovo and of the Serbian authorities. KFOR is also in regular contact with the EU-led Rule of Law Mission, EULEX,” a press release said. It called on both parties to immediately reduce tensions and refrain from unilateral actions that could lead to further escalation. “KFOR is monitoring the situation and continues to fully implement its UN mandate – based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999 – to ensure a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all communities in Kosovo. It also continues to provide the necessary security framework to move the EU-led dialogue for the normalisation of relations between Belgrade and Pristina forward,” the press release said.

 

Borrell to call Kosovo crisis-management meeting (N1)

 

EU High Representative Josep Borrell said on Thursday that he would invite top officials from Belgrade and Pristina to a crisis-management meeting in Brussels next week. Borrell said that the situation in the north of Kosovo is deteriorating every day. “We are again in crisis management mode….I will call the two sides – Kosovo and Serbia – for a crisis management meeting here in Brussels next week,” the EU’s top diplomat said after a meeting at NATO headquarters with Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. Borrell said that the European Commission is in close contact with the KFOR command and with both parties following the arrest of three Kosovo police troopers by the Serbian police “to see what really happened there that led to this arrest”. He called for calm on the ground in the meantime.

 

Stano: Belgrade, Pristina invited to Brussels meeting over crisis in north Kosovo (Tanjug)

 

EU spokesperson Peter Stano said on Thursday EU foreign policy and security chief Josep Borrell had invited representatives of Belgrade and Pristina to a Brussels meeting next week over the crisis in the north of Kosovo and Metohija. Stano said more details would be announced soon. Responding to Borrell's request to coordinate future actions in the north of Kosovo and Metohija with KFOR and EULEX, Pristina's PM Albin Kurti said earlier in the day police actions were not the job of Borrell or other EU officials.

 

State Dept spokesman says release Kosovo police officers (N1)

 

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said on Thursday that Washington expects Belgrade and Pristina to ease tensions in the north of Kosovo. “We believe that Kosovo and Serbia must both take steps to de-escalate tensions,” Miller told a press briefing. He added that this includes “the unconditional release of the three recently detained Kosovo police officers”.

 

REGIONAL PRESS

 

Dodik: No document created by OHR on state property will be discussed by relevant bodies of RS (FTV)

 

Republika Srpska (RS) President Milorad Dodik said on Thursday that the RS will never put on agenda the issue of property. He added that every attempt to do it will be in vain, including a task force formed by the Office of High Representative (OHR). Dodik stated that the Constitutional Court (CC) of Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) wants to implement only decisions that are detrimental for the RS. He underlined that if the High Representative imposes a decision on state property, a response of the RS will be very clear. “No document they create will be discussed by any relevant body of the RS, nor our people will participate in a discussion on it at B&H level”, explained the RS President. He went on to say that “if they dare to use this Schmidt who is illegitimate to impose anything, they should know that at this moment they called special session of the RS parliament where it will be decided about status of the RS.” Dodik claims that due to his stances on property, there have been attempts to remove him from political scene, adding that such attempts will be unsuccessful. RS President Dodik stressed that there is dozen cases against him in the Prosecutor’s Office of B&H. Dodik stressed that a representative of the US Embassy to B&H was present when a Muslim prosecutor, who was working on one criminal report against him, took over the position of a judge and handed over this case to another Muslim prosecutor. He claims that several days ago, the meeting of people carrying out revolutions was held in premises of the UK Embassy to B&H. Dodik emphasized that concept of revolution for the RS ‘Freedom to people’ was created at that meeting. The RS President claims that some people from Belgrade took part in this meeting. Dodik said on Thursday that President Dodik says the RS will never discuss the issue of property at the level of B&H because that would mean it agrees to regulate this issue at the level of B&H, stressing that anyone trying to do this waste their time. He stated that the issue of property is a key to the existence and future of the RS and therefore it will not be on the agenda. “The current debates and meetings on the issue of property are led by quasi-experts and people without legitimacy who form their stances according to the US Embassy. We cannot prevent them from doing something there, but we will make it clear that no document they create and adopt will be discussed by any relevant body in the RS, and our people will not be part of the story at the level where they plan to resolve this issue”, Dodik assessed. He said that it is about a planned activity that aims to put the RS in a hopeless situation, adding that the RS has resolved the issue of property and it has never been on the agenda in this form that was invented by US Ambassador to B&H and “fake High Representative”.

 

Venice Commission and OSCE/ODHIR issue joint opinion on RS Draft Law on Special Registry and Publicity of the Work of Non-Profit Organizations (N1)

 

Venice Commission, constitutional law experts of Council of Europe and OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OSCE/ODIHR) have issued a joint opinion calling on the RS authorities to reconsider adoption of the RS Draft Law on Special Registry and Publicity of the Work of Non-Profit Organizations, due to its serious shortcomings. N1 reports that, according to the opinion, the Draft Law is not good, it violates international standards and seriously infringes on the rights of such organizations. The opinion also reads that the Draft Law practically prohibits NGOs/NPOs from engaging in political activities, because it requires them to register in a special Registry and include the mark ‘NPO’ in all their materials. NGOs/NPOs will be subject to an additional legal oversight and inspections, and a range of sanctions, including the ban on their work. N1 reports that experts from Strasburg also said that the explanation for drafting the Law is that the existing legal framework is inadequate and higher level of transparency is needed, however such explanation is unclear, it is not based on risk assessment and is drafted without consultations with the organizations and citizens. “There do not seem to be relevant and sufficient reasons for submitting NPOs to additional registration and reporting requirements. The Draft Law is crafted in overly vague and ambiguous terms, where breaches are unforeseeable and sanctions disproportionately severe, sanctions are disproportionately severe and excessively restrict the right to freedom of association and freedom of expression. Furthermore, The Draft Law does not clearly define the kind of information or documents that may be required by the competent inspection body. It does not include safeguards to prevent the potential risk of abuse of the regulations or against discriminatory measures that may lead to harassment’’, reads the opinion. N1 reports that experts are also of view there is a high risk of abuse of the Draft Law and they have called on the authorities in the RS to reconsider it, and if the authorities decide to adopt it, the authorities should seriously revise and improve it “so as to ensure compliance with the principles of legal certainty, legitimacy, necessity and proportionality in accordance with international human rights standards”. The Venice Commission and OSCE/ODHIR reminded that B&H took the obligation to follow EU's norms and recommendations. They also reminded that Key Priorities 11 and 12 defined by the European Commission's Opinion on B&H's Membership Application stipulate that B&H needs to provide a safe environment for civil society and guarantee freedom of expression, freedom of media and protection of journalists.

 

Schmidt and Eichhorst call on B&H authorities to work on returning integrity to the electoral process (Hayat)

 

High Representative in B&H Christian Schmidt had a discussion with the Director of the European Service for Foreign Affairs Angelina Eichhorst regarding election reforms. Eichhorst was previously involved in a discussion with B&H political parties regarding election reform, but no significant results were achieved. Schmidt and Eichhorst called on B&H authorities to work and show progress of returning integrity to the electoral process. Hayat reports that, Schmidt announced that Eichhorst will return to B&H, now that new B&H leaders agreed on changes to the election law, that should be implemented within the next six months.

 

Niksic meets UN’s Macdonald, discuss FB&H government’s priorities (Dnevni list)

 

Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FB&H) Prime Minister Nermin Niksic met with UN Resident Coordinator in B&H Ingrid Macdonald at the seat of the FB&H government on Thursday to talk about the FB&H Government’s priorities, which the UN has supported via several year-long partnership. Niksic stated the FB&H government’s priorities include fiscal reform, easing burden on the economy and increase of minimum salary. He also stressed plans on creation of better climate for companies and better conditions for workers, as well as creation of other conditions, which would enable citizens to stay in B&H, and some to return to the country. He also underlined tasks on the EU road, as well as challenges such as the energy transition and infrastructural projects. Macdonald expressed interest in the FB&H government’s priorities, stressing that each year the UN secures USD 100 million as support to projects in B&H, which are implemented via 18 different agencies with the UN system.

 

Minister Nesic at Prespa forum: B&H has intensified process of return of migrants to countries of origin (Dnevni list)

 

Minister of Security of B&H Nenad Nesic took part in the ‘Prespa’ forum in North Macedonia, which is discussing strengthening cooperation and the EU integration of the Western Balkans countries, as well as solutions to security and economic challenges. Minister Nesic addressed a session dedicated to migration management in the EU and the Western Balkans. Nesic stressed that trends in the entire region show that the number of migrants on the Balkan route has increased in 2023 and that the number of migrants has increased in B&H, which migrants use as transit area and route to the EU countries. Minister Nesic further stated, among other issues, that it is necessary to undertake all measures to prevent illegal migrations at the source, and that B&H has intensified the process of return of migrants to their countries of origin, including forcible removals. On the sidelines of the forum, Nesic met on Thursday with new IOM Director General Amy Pope. They discussed cooperation between IOM and B&H, as well as IOM’s support to relevant B&H institutions in strengthening their capacities. Nesic stated that all trends indicate that the influx of migrants in the upcoming period will not stop.

 

Abazovic: Cooperation with PES is possible (TVCG/CdM)

 

The good side of the parliamentary elections is that no party achieved a result close to an absolute majority, said Prime Minister in technical mandate and leader of the Citizens' Movement URA Dritan Abazovic. In the Argumenti show on TVCG, he invited the president of the Europe now movement Milojko Spajic to a TV duel, whom he accused of instigating the "Do Kwon" scandal himself. "I am not, like some other colleagues, someone who invites others to TV duels, but given that Mr. Spajic will be a guest of your television tomorrow, I will use the next opportunity - whenever he wants, in front of the Montenegrin public, in front of 600,000 citizens, on the Public Service or somewhere else, that we should face each other in order to say some things that he and I know in front of the cameras. That's the first thing I offer. I hope he will be ready at some point, I don't think he's ready at this moment, he knows the reasons, and I'm totally ready. I think that would be the best thing," said Abazovic. He believes that the backbone of the new government should be the Hrabro se broji coalition. "There have been no official negotiations with the Europe Now Movement," said Abazovic. The future government, whoever made it, says, should be stable. "There are no longer structures that are so dominant that they determine all directions. If someone thought that we needed a new DPS, and if someone had that plan to have a new DPS, I am glad that that plan failed, because that plan is bad for Montenegro. And now let all subjects, there are a lot of them in the state parliament, agree, negotiate and hopefully find the best solution", Abazovic said. When asked if cooperation with the Europe now movement is acceptable to him, Abazovic points out that it is. "Cooperation with the Europe Movement is acceptable to us, but I personally insist that before that, first of all, Mr. Spajic and I clarify all these things ourselves, as two party presidents, and then we will simply see for others. If that is not acceptable to them, if they don’t want anything to be clarified, if they want some other models, it is completely okay with me. Just one thing to be clear - no one will blackmail URA", says Abazovic. When asked how he comments on the message of the Movement for Europe now that he will not be with URA and DPS, Abazovic answers this way: "The mafia's goal is to exclude us from decision-making. So far, they haven't succeeded, I don't know if they will in the future. As far as PES is concerned, they have the right to choose their partners... We will not participate in that, nor can we interfere," said Abazovic.

 

Perovic at the ministerial meeting in Brussels: Montenegro will stand by Ukraine as long as necessary (CdM)

 

State Secretary of the Ministry of Defense Krsto Perovic is participating in the two-day meeting of the North Atlantic Council at the level of defense ministers, which is being held at the NATO headquarters in Brussels. The meeting is chaired by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. "A meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Commission was held, at which the strong partnership between NATO and Ukraine was confirmed, in the context of commitment to peace, security and stability. The ministers discussed the improvement of the aforementioned platform for cooperation between NATO and Ukraine, with the aim of further bringing this country closer to the Alliance. The meeting was an opportunity to once again send a clear message that NATO members will continue to provide assistance to the brave and determined Ukraine in its fight for the liberation of its territory, as long as it is necessary," the Ministry of Defense announced. Ahead of the Summit in Vilnius, which will be held in July this year, the defense ministers of the member countries reiterated that NATO's doors remain open. They agreed that Ukraine has a place in the Alliance, as well as that decisions on membership can only be made by allies and Ukraine, noting that the Alliance's current focus is on ending the war, as well as on adopting a multi-year aid package for Ukraine in order to strengthen interoperability between the Alliance and of Ukraine. "A meeting of the Contact Group for support of Ukraine was held at the NATO headquarters, which was chaired by the US Secretary of Defense, Lloyd J. Austin. On that occasion, representatives of over fifty countries discussed the current situation in Ukraine and considered further steps in order to provide aid and support to that country, in accordance with the needs expressed by the Ukrainian side," the announcement states. Perovic pointed out that Russian aggression against Ukraine represents a great tragedy for the Ukrainian people, but also a security threat for the Euro-Atlantic community and the whole world. He added that Montenegro will stand by Ukraine and its people as long as it is necessary. "Perovic expressed his belief that the Ukrainian armed forces have sufficient capabilities to resist Russian aggression and defend the sovereignty of their country. To that end, he emphasized the importance of continuing the coordinated assistance of allies, which reflects the unity and solidarity of the transatlantic community and its determination to provide assistance to the Ukrainian people," the statement concluded.

 

Survey: Record high support of citizens for Montenegro’s membership in the EU (CdM)

 

The support of the citizens of Montenegro for the country’s membership in the EU has reached a record high level of 79.3%, according to a survey conducted by the De Facto agency for the needs of the EU Delegation to Montenegro in May. It is, as reported by the Europe House, an increase in support for membership of 1.5 percentage points compared to the results of a survey conducted in November last year. “We are glad that the support of the citizens of Montenegro for the country’s membership in the EU is at such a high level. With such a strong pro-European stance, the citizens of Montenegro send a clear and strong message that they want the future of their country in the EU. Political actors should find a way to cooperate, in the public interest and above party positions, in order to implement key reforms and enable this long-term wish of the vast majority of Montenegrin citizens to become a reality,” said EU Ambassador to Montenegro Oana Cristina Popa. The Europe House states that the survey, conducted on a sample of 1,200 respondents in the period from 9 to 23 May, has showed that more than half of Montenegrin citizens perceive the EU as the largest donor in the country.

 

Pendarovski meets UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas, Miroslav Jenca (MIA)

 

President Stevo Pendarovski met Thursday in Ohrid with UN Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas Miroslav Jenca, who is visiting the country on the occasion of the 2023 Prespa Forum Dialogue. Interlocutors exchanged views on the overall activities in North Macedonia within the United Nations, as well as on developments in the Western Balkans and beyond in the context of the Russian aggression against Ukraine, the President's Office said in a press release. Pendarovski expressed support for the overall efforts of the UN in dealing with the global issues. "President Pendarovski highlighted the example of our country, which strongly contributed to the region's overall stability with the signing of the Prespa Agreement under the auspices of the United Nations," reads the press release.

 

Kovachevski - Pope: North Macedonia contributes to management of migration and security in Europe (MIA)

 

Ahead of the official opening of the 2023 Prespa Forum Dialogue on Thursday, Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski met with newly elected Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope. PM Kovachevski extended congratulations to Pope, who is to begin her five-year term on Oct. 1, 2023, and wished her success as the first woman to lead the ION, the government said in a press release.  Interlocutors assessed the cooperation with the government as successful, in the area of ​​crisis response and migration management, particularly given the situation with the presence of migrants on the southern border, i.e. between North Macedonia and Greece. Kovachevski noted that North Macedonia has aligned activities and policies with its European partners in relation to migration issues, adding that it continues to actively cooperate with the IOM, recognizing that good migration management is important for security in regional and European frameworks and as an issue of importance in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. "Effective migration management is among the government's priorities, particularly in the area of ​​early detection and prevention of illegal crossings and movements along the Balkan route, with a focus on border security," said PM Kovachevski, as cited in the press release. Participants in the meeting stressed the importance of strengthening cross-border cooperation as one of the main preconditions for effective management of illegal migration.

 

Kovachevski: Realistically looking at 2030 as an achievable goal for the country's full-fledged EU membership (MIA)

 

Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski kicked off the 2023 Prespa Forum Dialogue on Thursday with a keynote address at the official opening session "Prespa Agreement Five Years on: Challenges Turned into Opportunities". "With the Prespa Agreement and all the subsequent steps to date, we have restored faith in diplomacy, promoting open dialogue as a benefit. Thus, we showed an applicable and functional example of resolving crises that has a special meaning in today's geopolitical context of developments, for resolving similar challenges that the region and Europe are facing today," PM Kovachevski said. Kovachevski noted that sustainable solutions are achieved at a table where dialogue is conducted, between leaders who have the political will to understand each other for the sake of their people and their country. "The member states of the EU, NATO, the US, see North Macedonia today as a factor of stability and security in Europe. Because of all that, today we are realistically looking at 2030 as an achievable goal for the country's full-fledged EU membership," he pointed out. Kovacevski stressed that North Macedonia has shown that no sincere effort is in vain. "And when I say there is proof, then the best proof is the Prespa Agreement, which was a solution to a bilateral dispute five years ago, and today is a model for perspectives for the future," Kovachevski told the official opening session on Thursday. Looking at a bilateral level, Kovachevski added, Greece has become one of the most vocal supporters of North Macedonia's European perspectives. "Macedonian-Greek relations are on the upswing and trust between the states is at its highest ever. Our cooperation in the field of energy is concrete evidence of that. Procedures are ongoing and by the end of the year, the construction of a new gas pipeline between North Macedonia and Greece will begin, which will be connected to the new terminal in Alexandroupoli, Greece. This gas pipeline and this terminal will not only be intended for Greece and North Macedonia, but also for Kosovo, for Serbia, for the countries in the north, for Montenegro and Albania and for everyone who wants to join," said Kovachevski. Kovachevski noted that success does not lie in putting an end to challenges - in the region, in Europe, in the world, adding that it is unrealistic to expect to put an end to challenges, because challenges have always existed, they exist and will continue to exist, because development is based on them. "Success lies in being able to turn challenges into opportunities together and continue on the path of progress. In that regard, North Macedonia is facing a new challenge, when everyone in the country needs to show responsibility for the country's European future and join the EU after joining NATO. I am also convinced, and I am working on achieving success. We have the best deal with the EU that we can get, which protects our Macedonian identity, our language, our culture, and no one must gamble with it," he said. He added that the Western Balkans has always needed the EU, but today the European Union also needs the Western Balkans, particularly given the new geopolitical and security developments. "This is a moment that our country must not miss and anyone who is responsible must not allow this chance to be missed," said Kovachevski. He noted that North Macedonia has immediately and efficiently aligned itself fully with the EU's foreign policy regarding the war in Ukraine, and that has reminded us what it means to be united in democratic values. "The other option is instability, risks and conflicts, which in today's time of hybrid threats, disinformation and fake news threatens European and world peace, and this must be clear to everyone here at home and in the region and in Europe. We have an obligation to show responsibility for our own role in preserving peace in Europe. And let's seize our deserved chance. Because geographically, culturally, historically we belong to Europe. Because our citizens deserve a European quality of life. Because our young people deserve to realize their dream of living in Europe, and that should be their native country," Kovachevski told the official opening of the Prespa Forum Dialogue in Struga.

 

Shekerinska: For Prespa Agreement to be alive and kicking, we do need EU context (MIA)

 

Every big conflict is difficult on its own way, but every solution shares one characteristic - domestic political will, finding the right actors that are actually willing to change the status quo and in that sense the big lesson from the Prespa Agreement is that we don't elect politicians to serve as expensive mirrors, but expect that the politicians will really look beyond what is currently the mood in the country hopefully with a view of the future, former defense minister Radmila Shekerinska told Thursday's panel "Road to Prespa: Lessons Learnt and Propserity" held as part of the Prespa Forum Dialogue in Struga. "Today, no one says they will try to nullify the Prespa Agreement. I haven't seen one, neither here in North Macedonia nor in Greece. And that's the big proof for the success of the Prespa Agreement. Even those that have been the harsh critics are now silent," said Shekerinska. She noted that the Prespa Agreement has reminded us that it is the peacemakers who make peace, more often than the autocrats and the nationalists, and that even in spite of some public resistance initially, the public can see that there are benefits, especially today when security is back on the agenda. "I don't think that too many people think about what would have happened in North Macedonia if we had not secured ourselves as a NATO member state. And this would have been impossible without the Prespa Agreement, former minister Shekerinska said, adding that for the Prespa Agreement to be alive and kicking, we do need the EU context. DUI leader Ali Ahmeti told the panel that the success of the Prespa Agreement came as a result of the communication, cooperation and support together with the international community, i.e. Brussels and Washington as builders of the peace. "We have set goals, and our first goal was the peace, stability and security for our country. Our next goal was zero problems with the neighbors and how we shall integrate and start communicating with the countries that are democratic, not with the countries that are led by autocrats. We committed to building a country and the rule of law, and we achieved this. I believe that this achievement has to be shared with the international community," Ahmeti pointed out. Managing Director for Europe and Central Asia at the European External Action Service (EEAS), Ambassador Angelina Eichhorst, mentioning highlights that can be looked back on, said the Prespa Agreement was signed as a result of very strong will and possibly very high political cost. "Strategically taking the countries forward, on both sides, and so much courage was necessary, because in every successful agreement you see it's really because the leaders wanted and are ready to pay the price for it. We saw all the negative vibes coming around when it was clear that the leaders wanted to start the negotiations. I mentioned Russia, and I will say it here - Russia was definitely, absolutely not in favor of seeing anything possible on the ground in terms of the progress of this country. And despite all their attempts made to sabotage, it did not work, and why did it not work - because there was unity," said Eichhorst. According to her, we also see today how important unity is and standing together for the same cause, and the timing is crucial. "It's quite important that the leaders make a political decision, and for us in the European Union widening Europe is no longer about a myth, it's really about how to do it and how to move as fast as possible and most efficient as possible because this is what we have been waiting for too long now," Eichhorst pointed out.

 

Spasovski: Western Balkans to contribute to European stability by joining EU (MIA)

 

Migration is a European challenge requiring a European response, through joint policies, cooperation and coordination, and stability across the European continent can be reached only when Western Balkan countries join the EU, said Minister of Interior Oliver Spasovski as keynote speaker during the “EU-Western Balkans Migration Management: Solidarity and Shared Commitments” session at the third annual Prespa Forum Dialogue in Struga. Spasovski said migration could be prevented and managed only through cooperation between all countries that are geographically part of Europe. "Every challenge, which is common to the entire region, must send a strong message to EU member states that the EU cannot be complete without Western Balkan countries. This is not only due to the fact that most migrants arrive from our neighborhood but also because the regions where the strong migration wave comes from, mainly the Middle East, heightened by Russia's invasion in Ukraine, even today are far from real stabilization," Spasovski noted. He said the wave of migration that had swept Europe — which North Macedonia was part of, being on the so-called Western Balkan route — revealed many policy weaknesses and flaws in all of Europe. "The Ministry of Interior conducted a joint operation with eight European countries, and stationed police officers at the Macedonian-Greek border even when they themselves were dealing with an overflow of illegal immigrants on their territory, as well as the Covid crisis, which is why I want to thank the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, Ukraine, Slovenia, Croatia, Austria, and Serbia," Spasovski said. The Frontex Agreement, he said, was of special importance to North Macedonia and the Ministry of Interior, not only because it was signed in Macedonian but also from an operational aspect. "Dealing with migration is only possible through joint policies," Spasovski said.

 

Osmani: We don't want to see alternative approaches to EU membership, but ways to speed up the process (MIA)

 

We don't want to see alternative approaches to EU membership, but ways to speed up the process, Foreign Minister Bujar Osmani told Thursday's panel "Is the Franco-German initiative on EU reform putting the engine back in (loco) motion?" held as part of the Prespa Forum Dialogue in Struga. "It's been twenty years since the Thessaloniki Summit, and that only shows how disappointing and slow this process of accession to the EU is. And since 2003, after the commitment was made that this region will join the EU, of the Western Balkan countries only Croatia joined the Union, so we have a problem," said Osmani.  He pointed out that the Russian aggression against Ukraine has served as a significant reminder that EU enlargement is not only an internally integrative process, but also a matter of foreign policy and has security consequences. "It's time to say enough is enough, we can't carry on as usual. There are opinions that the EU is not ready to absorb new member states mainly because of the complexity of the decision-making process in a Union of 27, and considering further enlargement the EU could become completely dysfunctional, and I think this is the main reason as to why some EU member states don't have a clear decision in terms of completing this process," Osmani said. According to him, such hesitation brings great unpredictability with the Western Balkan countries and unfortunately this is also reflected in people's perception of the process itself. "And we see that the popularity of the idea of the EU in the region is deteriorating. If you consider the example of North Macedonia where we see historically low levels of approval of the process from over 90 to 50 percent. This is because certain things had to be done in the region, without having the results delivered by the other side," said Osmani. The Minister noted that North Macedonia represents a paradigm of this process of endless accepting - the name change, and now the constitutional amendments. "We don't want to see alternative approaches to EU membership, such as a multi-level European Union, but see ways to speed up this process and make it credible," Osmani told the panel in Struga.

 

Marichikj: We need EU's clear vision for Western Balkans (MIA)

 

We need the EU's clear vision for Western Balkan countries. There is no time for the enlargement process to keep stalling, given Europe's new geopolitical situation, such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine, said participants in the 'EU Enlargement in the Transforming Geopolitical Dynamics' session at the 2023 Prespa Forum Dialogue on Thursday. "Russia's invasion of Ukraine delayed the EU enlargement process. We need to function in such a way that we find the right people, assess the needs to create strategic positions and see how the EU can help the Western Balkans clarify the processes that will bring us closer to the EU, and we need it now," said Deputy PM for European Affairs Bojan Marichikj. Marichikj added that North Macedonia was the most pro-European country in the region, but Euro-enthusiasm among citizens has fallen from 80 percent to 65 percent, which has made them think about what could be done to change it. "This means that we need a clear reform agenda that will attract all political parties to a dialogue and unite around this issue, because this surpasses political interest," added Marichikj. In terms of the constitutional amendments, the Deputy PM said that every moment is suitable for finding solutions and to have it discussed in Parliament. "We cannot prolong this issue because we have lost 20 years on the issue with Greece. We don't have that much time to waste on this one. All of these issues will not be resolved if we postponed them, but will become bigger and bigger," said Marichikj. Irish Minister of State for European Affairs, Peter Burke, said that by uniting the EU, the states will not dilute their sovereignty but amplify their influence. "Openness to the EU is the path that the Irish people have travelled, a journey we wish others take today and along with we are determined to help you," Burke noted. Serbia's Minister for European Integration, Tanja Miscevic, said that the tunnel to the EU is too long, and unfortunately, we cannot see its end. "When we try to explain to EU member states that enlargement will improve the issue of reform fatigue in the region that exists in every candidate country in the region, because it is an imminent situation, nobody wanted to listen. Now we have to seize a momentum somebody else created after 20 years, or even 23 years, ago for the integration process of all Western Balkans. It is a strange situation," Miscevic said. "Of course, we are to blame. We are exempt as a society and as institutions, and at the same time there are many internal struggles and problems, but we should not forget that the rule of law is a primary condition for each and every of us is very difficult to deeply establish and root as a strong institution," Miscevic added.

 

Bundestag resolution a symbolic recognition of Macedonian identity, says FM Osmani (MIA)

 

The resolution of the German Bundestag supporting North Macedonia’s EU accession is just a symbolic recognition of what the negotiating framework formally states, because even without the resolution the Macedonian identity is guaranteed and when we become a member, it will only undergo greater promotion, said Minister of Foreign Affairs Bujar Osmani at a press conference Thursday in Struga. In answer to a journalist’s question over the meaning of the resolution titled "Actively support North Macedonia on its path to the European Union" which the Bundestag is set to debate and adopt today, and the way in which “it will protect the Macedonian identity”, Osmani stressed that Germany is the country’s most consistent supporter. “First, I want to thank the political parties who initiated this resolution in the German Parliament. I hope that it will be supported by all political parties in the Bundestag, which will send a serious message of support. These support resolutions are only a symbolic recognition of what the negotiating framework formally includes. Even without them, the identity within the EU is guaranteed, and once we become a member it will only be promoted more and more,” said Osmani. Regarding the dilemmas which, he said, are present in the public, the FM explained some countries initiate such motions in order to tell the citizens: “it is true, the negotiating framework guarantees the identity attributes.” “The language will become an official language of the EU, and this was proven with the signing of the Frontex Agreement. In a society with mutual understanding, there is no greater proof after the signing of the Frontex Agreement. But the opposition is abusing the topic, scaring the citizens and also refused to support the Frontex Agreement,” said Minister Osmani. Osmani stressed the Frontex Agreement is “the most important agreement concerning the official use of the Macedonian language in the EU.” “There is no need for more convincing, this issue is closed, but the opposition continues to sow fear and we end up pushing our friends to adopt such resolutions and affirm our identity. This is a result of unprincipled fearmongering when this issue has already been closed,” added Osmani. The German Bundestag will debate on several documents focusing on the Euro-integration and situation in the Western Balkans, including a resolution titled "Actively support North Macedonia on its path to the European Union", submitted by MPs from the ruling coalition from the ranks of the German Social Democratic Party (SPD), the Greens and the liberal Free Democratic Party (FDP).  With the documents, the German MPs call on the federal government to reach agreement at EU level that the EU accession prospects for North Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, and Serbia are "unequivocal, credible and underpinned with tangible progress".  "It is in the EU's own interest that the six Western Balkan countries - Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia - which are not yet members of the EU but are directly surrounded by EU member states, achieve long-term stability, rule of law, peaceful settlement of disputes, solid democratic structures and economic prosperity. For this to happen, the goal must remain to include these countries in the EU," reads the document to be debated in the German Bundestag on Thursday.

 

Sarrazin: German parliament recognizes Macedonian identity, language and history (MIA)

 

The German parliament will vote on a resolution on the role or membership of North Macedonia in the EU. Many citizens express the fear of losing their language, identity and history. We cannot say what the Bulgarians should do, but the German parliament can promise you friendship and we promise you that the German parliament recognizes the Macedonian identity, language and history, Germany's Special Envoy for the Western Balkans Manuel Sarrazin told Thursday's official opening session of the 2023 Prespa Forum Dialogue in Struga. "This is a promise that we support you and always stand by you in your membership efforts. North Macedonia is an example of respect for diversity and fundamental European values. Tonight, the German parliament will confirm this, and this is very important," said Sarrazin.  Earlier at the opening session, European Council President Charles Michel said in a video message the Prespa Agreement has shown that even the most difficult obstacles can be overcome with courage, leadership, and responsibility, for the benefit of everyone. "One year ago you took another pivotal step and together with North Macedonia, we held the first inter-governmental conference in the accession process. With the ongoing screening process, you are steadily advancing on your path to the EU. I’m confident this will continue," said Michel. He urged for the need to take full advantage of the fresh momentum injected into the EU enlargement process. "Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has brought war back to our European continent. As fellow Europeans, we stand with the people of Ukraine at this dark hour. We believe that the best way to defend peace and security in Europe is by spreading democracy and prosperity in a spirit of respect and cooperation. So we need to take full advantage of the fresh momentum we have injected into the EU enlargement process. We need to get ready -- both the EU and the Western Balkans -- for our shared future together," the European Council President said. Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski, under whose auspices the forum is held, kicked off the 2023 Prespa Forum Dialogue with a keynote address at the official opening session "Prespa Agreement Five Years on: Challenges Turned into Opportunities". The official opening session of the 2023 PFD, held outdoors, was briefly interrupted due to an incident with the equipment caused by the strong wind. Fortunately, there were no consequences and the session continued in line with the agenda. The third annual Prespa Forum Dialogue which features discussions on the topic "Widened European family by 2030: Mission (Im)possible)?" is organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the auspices of Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski. Participants include the heads of state of Montenegro, Croatia, Albania; regional prime ministers; the foreign ministers of Croatia, Ireland, Czechia; and high representatives of the UN and OSCE. The forum also brings together representatives of the academic and business community, civil society, and youth organizations.

 

Milatovic: In order to de-escalate tensions, it is necessary to re-hold elections in the north of Kosovo and fulfil the prerequisites for the formation of the ZSO (MIA)

 

Montenegrin President Jakov Milatovic said that Montenegro strongly supports the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina and that he fully shares the position with the EU that in order to de-escalate tensions, it is necessary to hold elections again in the north of Kosovo and fulfil the prerequisites for the formation of the Community of Serb Municipalities (ZSO). "I think that we have a completely identical position on this issue with the EU, that in order to achieve that de-escalation, it is necessary to hold elections again in the north of Kosovo, that the preconditions related to the formation of the ZSO in the north of Kosovo should be fulfilled, as some steps towards further de-escalation of tensions. "Montenegro supports everything that leads to that," said Milatovic. In an interview with the MIA agency, he emphasized that Montenegro's position in this regard is clear and that he thinks it is similar to North Macedonia's position. "I believe that we really need a prosperous and stable Western Balkans as part of the EU", emphasized Milatovic in an interview given on the sidelines of the Prespa Forum for Dialogue, which is being held in Struga.

 

Rama: 100% focused on the release of the officers in Kosova, de-escalation remains a priority (Radio Tirana)

 

Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama reacted again regarding the kidnapping of three Kosovo police officers, noting that KFOR will not come out with public conclusions about the location of the three Kosovo police officers. Rama listed several points that summarize his and Albania’s government position regarding the situation in Kosovo, first focusing on the kidnapping of the officers. "Despite various claims about the location, they must return home as soon as possible. Since yesterday, we are 100% focused on their release," Rama emphasized. "There is no parallel between the three police officers and the person with criminal records arrested by the Kosovo police in the North," he continued. "De-escalation remains the priority of priorities and the points set by the Euro-Atlantic community must be fulfilled as soon as possible," said Rama. Kosovo Police informed yesterday that three border officials were kidnapped by Serbian forces during a patrol on the border line in the north of Kosovo. The police have announced that the police unit has been patrolling deep within the territory of Kosovo to prevent the use of illegal roads.

 

Xhacka: Kurti should listen to the internationals (Radio Tirana)

 

Foreign Minister Olta Xhacka has clearly stated that Albania will always be in the arms of Kosovo and will advise it not to deepen the gap between it and the US-EU, as the consequences will be serious for the country. Xhacka said that the government of Kosovo should listen to the international allies because otherwise it faces international isolation and serious consequences for the country's economy. "We are worried by the increase in tensions in the north and we are engaged with the allies so that the situation does not deteriorate further. We are sorry to find ourselves in this delicate situation at a moment when there was a golden opportunity that would lead to the final solution of the normalization of their relations. In our case, the concern becomes great where the allies unanimously find the greatest responsibility in Kosovo, weakening its positions in the eyes of the USA and the EU. For us, Kosovo is sacred, we share the objectives of the government of Kosovo for a final negotiated solution with Serbia. It is imperative that the government of Kosovo listens to internationals to de-escalate the situation. Stop deepening the gap with the US and the EU because the consequences are great. Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, the only way to peace. Reaching an agreement on mutual recognition between the two countries, Kosovo's membership in the EU and the UN is very important and requires a lot of courage than what is happening today in the north", said Xhacka. Regarding the kidnapping of 3 Kosovo border police officers by Serbia, Xhacka demanded that they be released, and that Albania is awaiting the final report of KFOR. Xhacka called for maintaining calm and taking steps to reduce tensions. "The most recent situation with the 3 policemen kidnapped by the Serbian army risks adding fuel to the fire. We have been in close contact with the allies about this event and have asked for KFOR's assessment of what happened, and we are waiting for the end of the investigation. It is imperative to maintain calm and the Serbian government to release the three policemen without wasting time. Their release would be a great contribution towards reducing tensions. We are of the position that the soldiers have not threatened the national security of Serbia and in such cases even crossing the border or entering an area that can be considered Serbia would not lead to their arrest, but to their return, therefore they must be released. Albania must maintain a constructive attitude that supports Kosovo and de-tensions the situation”, Xhacka said. Xhacka also spoke about the country of Kosovo regarding the ban on vehicles with Serbian license plates, where she added that she hopes that this will only be for security reasons, as it could damage not only the regional market but also Kosovo itself. "Banning the circulation of vehicles with Serbian license plates. We emphasize that free movement is part of the commitments that our countries have undertaken, within the framework of the work for the creation of a common regional market. The measures are not for economic purposes, but for security measures. It remains to be seen what this means in reality because it would damage the economies of the region and Kosovo. It would weaken its position in the eyes of the international community. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has followed closely the session held after the elections and the subsequent unnecessary and harmful measures. We have been in contact with the US-EU, we have worked pro-actively to find a solution. Rama has sent them a draft for the association, an important and essential step for de-tensioning", Xhacka added.

 

Contact Group, Albania reaffirms support for Ukraine (Radio Tirana)

 

Albanian Minister of Defense, Niko Peleshi participated in the meeting of the Defense Contact Group for Ukraine. Informing on this meeting, Mr. Peleshi said that "together with our allies, we are determined to support peace and security in the region". "We once again joined with our allies, in the Defense Contact Group for Ukraine, under the leadership of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III to reaffirm diplomatic, political, military, economic and social support for Ukraine. Determined in support of peace and security in the region and beyond," wrote Mr. Peleshi on social network. The Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) is an initiative of the US Secretary of Defense that brings together allies and partners from around the world to discuss cooperation and the security challenges facing Russian aggression in Ukraine.

 

Manja: Justice Reform, the government's biggest investment against corruption (Radio Tirana)

 

The Minister of Justice, Ulsi Manja, participated in the Prespa Forum for Dialogue that is being held in Struga, where he gave a speech on the panel on the eradication of corruption through good governance policies and Justice Reform. As the National Coordinator against Corruption of Albania, the institution that leads all government policies to eradicate corruption in the public administration, Manja emphasized the fact that the biggest investment of the Albanian government in the field of the rule of law is the fight against corruption in the justice system through the Justice Reform, in the public administration through the mechanism of the Anticorruption Directorate and the digitization of public services, where Albania is the leading country in the region, with 1277 services it offers online to its citizens. Manja reiterated that the Forum for Dialogue created the opportunity, not only to talk about the experiences of each country, but above all to find new solutions for common problems of the region to strengthen good governance and transparency in decision-making.