LOCAL PRESS

 

Brnabic: Kurti doesn't even want to say two words - the Brussels Agreement, peace and stability suit us (RTS)

 

Ahead of the talks in Brussels between the delegations of Belgrade and Pristina, Prime Minister Ana Brnabic said that those talks will be difficult. And we still don't have the Brussels Agreement and the ZSO, Pristina has no intention of implementing what was agreed, and Kurti doesn't want to say the words Brussels Agreement, says Ana Brnabic.

 

Prime Minister Ana Brnabic said that the talks in Brussels, which should take place on Thursday, will be difficult. "Gratitude to President Vucic for taking it upon himself to lead those talks, and freeing the Government to deal with other matters," the Prime Minister said.

According to her, the implementation of the Brussels Agreement, the implementation of the Union of Serb Municipalities (ZSO) is a priority. And we still don't have the Brussels Agreement and the ZSO. "Pristina has no intention of implementing it, and Kurti does not want to say the words Brussels agreement," says Brnabic. She pointed out that instead of implementation, we only saw additional escalation. "Peace and stability suits our people because it allows us to have prosperity," says Brnabic.

 

Answering questions about whether citizens will go to the polls by the end of the year, the Prime Minister says that she sincerely hopes so. Brnabic stated that Serbia cannot be a sunflower that turns around as dictated by foreign power centers through the opposition in Serbia. She emphasized that the opposition has one goal: the overthrow of the President of the Republic, Aleksandar Vučić, and that in this sense, everyone is ready to unite "both those who are for NATO and those who are against, and those who are for an independent Kosovo and those who allegedly swear to Kosovo".

 

The Prime Minister stated that she saw that the opposition had completely changed their opinions and reminded the citizens: "Everyone remembers that during June, July and August we were exposed to open threats from the opposition. They claimed that if extraordinary parliamentary elections were called, they would take to the streets, block institutions, call for civil disobedience and cause chaos in Serbia. Suddenly, at the beginning of September, they say that if extraordinary parliamentary elections are not called, there will be chaos, civil disobedience and the blocking of institutions. So, everything is the opposite of what they said in August, July and June this year. We see that the opposition cannot decide what it wants. But there is one clear reason why this is so: decisions are not made here, but in some other centers of power, and they are only communicated to our opposition, both left and right. Then they start causing chaos in the Republic of Serbia," said Ana Brnabic, being hosted on RTS.

 

She added that RTS also backed down a little under the pressure of the opposition, stating that the SNS is always ready for elections and that she, as Prime Minister, from her position, absolutely thinks that it is in the interest of the elections to be held as soon as possible. "We will fight for everything that means a better quality of life for citizens and we will continue as we started," concluded Brnabic.

 

Vucic: Elections maybe even before March 2 (Beta)

 

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said the government will meet the opposition’s demands regarding the date for the holding of early elections, but not necessarily regarding when they will be called. “I have read the opposition parties’ letter, according to them elections should be held no later than March 2, maybe even sooner, they’ll get an answer by the end of the month, they’ll be happy with the decision,” said Vucic. “In their letter they formally asked for elections to be called by the end of December, which means that they should be held by March 2. Now, either they are illiterate, and they wanted the elections to be held by end of December or they wanted them to be called by end of December – they wrote called. We will meet all their demands. But not like a wishing well regarding which elections they want – just regarding the date,” Vucic told reporters at the opening of construction work on the Palfinger company’s new plant in the southern city of Nis. “They’ll get an answer, and they will be happy with it. I just fear they once again won’t be happy with their people,” added Vucic.

 

Leaders of Brdo-Brijuni process pass declaration on EU accession, climate and youth (Beta)

 

The leaders of the countries participating in the Brdo-Brijuni Process adopted a declaration in Skopje on Sept. 11 in which they pledge to step up strategic dialogue with European Union institutions in order to speed up the accession process, accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources and boost energy efficiency, and work on keeping youth in the region.

 

"We pledge, by reiterating our position on the EU enlargement policy and European Union membership perspective of the Western Balkans as the most direct contributor to the maintenance of peace and stability, and more than ever a geopolitical issue, to intensify the strategic dialogue with the EU institutions with the aim of speeding up the EU accession process and prevent[ing] the region being left behind," the leaders state in the declaration. In order to reach that goal, the EU and Western Balkans should be ready for enlargement as quickly as possible and no later than 2030, the document states further.

 

The leaders stressed the importance of comprehensive political, economic and social reforms ahead of EU accession, and the importance of regional cooperation and good neighborly relations, undertaking to work together to nurture an atmosphere of mutual trust, understanding and solidarity, and a commitment to peaceful and lasting solutions to any remaining bilateral issues. On the subject of fighting climate change and curbing its effects, the leaders advocate facing the challenges of climate change, carrying out green transition and encouraging green growth, along with increasing energy diversification and moving to

producing energy from renewable sources.

 

The Skopje declaration was endorsed by the presidents of Croatia and Slovenia, Zoran Milanovic and Natasa Pirc Musar, the presidents of Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo, Aleksandar Vucic, Jakov Milatovic, Stevo Pendarovski, Bajram Begaj and Vjosa Osmani, and by the members of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Zeljko Komsic, Denis Becirovic and Zeljka Cvijanovic.

 

REGIONAL PRESS

 

Bosnia and Herzegovina

 

Court of B&H confirms indictment against Dodik, Lukic (N1)

 

Exactly one month since the indictment was filed against Republika Srpska (RS) President Milorad Dodik and Acting Director of the Official Gazette of the RS Milos Lukic, a confirmation came from the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) that the mentioned indictment was confirmed. The state Prosecutor’s Office filed the indictment against Dodik and Lukic for the criminal offense of not implementing decisions of the High Representative in B&H. The indictment came after the RS National Assembly (RSNA) adopted two disputable laws on June 27 which Dodik signed through a regular procedure, and which were published in the RS Official Gazette. Now a court proceeding will follow in this case against Dodik and Lukic.

 

After the indictment was filed, Dodik said that he would respond to the call of the Court of B&H. However, in the meantime, Dodik’s defense tried to buy some time and even submitted a request for exemption of one of the judges, Jasmina Dedovic-Cosic. Dedovic-Cosic was one of the judges that decided on whether the indictment will be confirmed or not. Dodik’s lawyers claimed that she was biased. The request was rejected in the end. The entire proceeding could last for months. Reporter learned what the Defense plans to build its case on. They probably plan to focus on the legitimacy of High Representative Christian Schmidt, as Dodik has been claiming since Schmidt arrived to B&H that he was not legally appointed to the post and thus his decisions are not legal or valid. Dodik keeps on repeating that Schmidt was not appointed by the UN Security Council (UN SC), as there was no support from Russia and China for that. On the other hand, Dodik points out that he signed the mentioned laws as the RS President, which he had to do, adding that the laws were adopted by the RSNA.

 

N1 also learned that prison sentences in this case, if Dodik or Lukic are convicted, go from three months to five years. Jelin-Dizdar noted that there is one judge in this case, and it can be expected for that judge to be under strong pressure now due to the mentioned case. There are already pressures exerted onto the Court and the Prosecutor’s Office of B&H, which according to Dodik are not legal institutions. Reporter says if Dodik gets a probation sentence, then there would be no ban on his political work. This is all in line with changes made to the Criminal Code of B&H, imposed by HR Schmidt. For the first time, a court proceeding will be held under these new law provisions. There were speculations that the state Prosecution would ask for Dodik’s political work to be banned during the court proceeding. However, the Court of B&H confirmed for N1 that there would be no bans, or some prohibitive measures prescribed by the law. The trial is expected to commence very soon.

 

Reactions to the indictment against Dodik, Lukic (ATV, FTV)

 

Serb member of the Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Presidency Zeljka Cvijanovic commented on the information that the Court of B&H confirmed the indictment against Republika Srpska (RS) President Milorad Dodik and Acting Director of the RS Official Gazette Milos Lukic. She said that this represents continuation of the political persecution of the RS and its officials. She argued that this has nothing to do with law and justice, but with the intention to break down and remove those who prevent illegal take away of the RS property and further disempowering of the RS. “Only in B&H is it possible for an unelected foreigner, who is also an illegal High Representative, to place himself above the democratically elected institutions, and change laws, absolutely outside the authority defined by the Dayton Agreement, and then on that basis settle accounts with the elected, legal and legitimate President of the RS”, Cvijanovic said in a statement.

 

Speaker of the RS National Assembly (RSNA) Nenad Stevandic said that this is an open act of hostility towards the RS and undermining of the Dayton Peace Agreement (DPA). Stevandic noted that this is not coincidentally at the time when Schmidt announced his arrival to the RS. Stevandic also said that this confirms the crisis in B&H. In his opinion, this confirms their doubts that this is about deliberate causing of riots and crisis and that it would be the best to target those with the biggest political capacity and with the biggest number of votes. Stevandic added that he will not allow to call the will of people of the RS – reflected in the elections and in the function of the RS President - into questions by some staged indictments. He said: “Let them think how much we are capable to do and let them be scared of us. We are not scared of them.” Stevandic said this is “an attempt at incrimination of Milorad Dodik due to his wish to protect the state property of the RS”. “If they thought that we have no response, they are sorely mistaken. We do not fear the indictment, and they should fear our responses, because this is an attack on peace, attack on the Dayton Peace Agreement and an attempt to use illegal decisions of the illegal High Representative to produce legal consequences. In line with that, if he (Schmidt) is illegal, and he is, he has no appointment, his decisions are illegal, there are no laws that can be derived from that, and there is no way to incriminate people based on imposed, illegal laws”, Stevandic said in a telephone statement. He promised that the RS will have, as always, a legally formulated and serious response to this. “No one should doubt our seriousness and determination”, Stevandic underscored.

 

RS Prime Minister Radovan Viskovic said that we must be aware that this is one of the continuous attacks on the RS, a renewed attempt to expropriate it, this time in an open and illegal way. Viskovic pointed out that, no matter how surprising this decision is, it is just as worrying how the B&H judiciary functions and who manages it. Viskovic also said that attack on individual, i.e. RS President Dodik in this case represents an attack on the entire RS. Viskovic said: “It is important that we repeat this because this is another confirmation of what the imposed framework called B&H represents and that is different from everything that was agreement and internationally-confirmed in the Dayton.”

 

Leader of NPS Darko Banjac stated that this is a political persecution that has nothing to do with law. Banjac said: “An individual cannot impose a law by any act of the international law much less by the Dayton Agreement.” Banjac reminded that Christian Schmidt is not a High Representative because he was not appointed arguing that even if he was, he cannot impose laws in B&H. Banjac stated: “Imagine the paradox – a man who is a foreigner imposes a law for you to adjudicate to elected president of one country, the republic. In this case, it is the RS.” Banjac reminded that a tourist imposed a law to adjudicate to RS President, elected by the will of people of the RS, adding that this reminds him of much worse actions than the ones that happened during the World War II. Banjac said: “Obviously, Schmidt comes from such country. We must be ready to that and we must be aware that this is the beginning of a struggle because only in this way, they can stop fight of the RS to preserve the Dayton Agreement. What none of them understands is that RS President was obliged by the RS Constitution to sign the law that the RSNA adopted. This degrades the entire law system of the RS, B&H and the RS Constitution.”

 

Leader of the List ‘For Justice and Order’ Nebojsa Vukanovic confirmed that to the surprise of many a session of the RSNA Collegium was announced for Tuesday at noon, and the date of the next session will be determined then. It is yet unknown what the character of this session will be and the discussed topics. Not many opposition members in the RS commented the confirmation of indictment. PDP leader Branislav Borenovic commented this for N1 and said this is a political and judicial process, and he has no type of expectations from that process. Borenovic believes all this is some kind of “trade” between some people from the international community (IC), the judiciary of B&H and Milorad Dodik. In a statement for N1, Borenovic said he has a feeling this court proceeding will be a long one. He called the entire case a political game, saying he does not know how this will end but he knows this game suits Dodik and all those that are part of the mentioned process. “I believe that should be ended as soon as possible. I have no expectations. I will be completely honest, for me the entire thing is completely pointless”, Borenovic stated.

 

Dodik’s adviser Milan Tegeltija said the confirmation of indictment is continuation of political instrumentalization of the judiciary done by political Sarajevo and the foreign factor. Tegeltija says this is a classic example of political “showdown” with the RS and Dodik. Tegeltija noted that there is a decision of a man that has no legitimacy in B&H. He says even if that man was legally appointed in B&H, he would not be able to make such decisions, especially not to impose changes to the state Criminal Code. “Such thing does not exist anywhere in the world. That is dictatorship”, Tegeltija underlined. Tegeltija says foreigners believe that by removing Dodik from politics, they would be able to manipulate with the RS as they want. He says they are wrong to think that. He is certain the RS is strong enough to defend all its legitimately elected representatives. Tegeltija assessed that this is the best indicator that ‘political Sarajevo’ as well as foreigners govern the judiciary and that the reform of judiciary has not brought anything good.

 

Schmidt expected to visit Banja Luka and meet with RS Vice Presidents, Secretary General of RS President’s Office prohibits use of official premises for meetings with Schmidt (Dnevni avaz)

 

High Representative Christian Schmidt will visit Banja Luka on Tuesday where he is expected to meet with Republika Srpska (RS) Vice Presidents Camil Durakovic and Davor Pranjic. The meetings were scheduled to take place in the offices of the RS President. However, Secretary General of the RS President's Office Services Jelena Pajic Bastinac issued an order prohibiting the use of presidential offices for the meetings with Schmidt and banning Schmidt from entering the RS President’s Office building. Pajic Bastinac’s order reads: “All persons using the official premises of the institution of RS President, which includes the Services of RS President and Vice Presidents, are prohibited from organizing meetings in those premises with the person who falsely presents himself as High Representative Christian Schmidt, which is in line with the conclusion of the RS National Assembly”. Pajic Bastinac warned that any person violating her order will be considered in violation of the status of protected building.

 

Media wondered who are the people Schmidt would meet during his visit to the RS, knowing that “the doors to all institutions in the RS have been closed for him and he did not place his foot in those since he arrived to B&H two years ago”. A source speculated that Schmidt could go to Srebrenica where representatives of Potocari Memorial Center would gladly meet him, he could hold a meeting with representatives of Bosniak or Croat returnees to the RS, he could hold a meeting with representatives of opposition parties in the RS, representatives of Islamic or Catholic religious communities or “he could pay a tourist visit to mosques or Catholic churches in the RS”. The source also reminded that there are numerous non-governmental organizations in B&H which often hold various seminars or panel discussions in the RS “so Schmidt could appear as a guest in one of those”.

 

RS Vice President Durakovic confirms Schmidt cancelled the meeting (N1)

 

Republika Srpska (RS) Vice President issued a statement Tuesday confirming that Christian Schmidt, the international community’s peace envoy, cancelled the meeting announced for today. “Today, I was supposed to meet the High Representative of the International Community in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H), His Excellency Christian Schmidt, in my cabinet, but the meeting did not take place, since I was informed only a few hours before the announced meeting that it had been cancelled and that the (Office of the High Representative) OHR would subsequently inform the public about the reasons for its cancellation. There is no good enough reason why the said meeting should not be held,” Camil Durakovic said.

 

After Schmidt announced his arrival in RS and a meeting in Banja Luka with the vice-presidents of the entity, RS President Secretary General Jelena Pajic-Bastinac issued an order banning the use of the official premises of the Palace of the RS. The order states that any person who acts contrary to the order will be considered to have violated the status of a protected building.

 

RS Vice President Camil Durakovic previously said that he would meet with Schimdt, while Davor Pranjic told “Nezavisne novine” daily that due to his earlier commitments, he would most likely not meet with the High Representative. RS opposition representatives also refused to meet with Schmidt.

 

Heads of RSNA Caucuses calls on Schmidt to refrain from all future announced and unannounced provocations that cause political instability in B&H, disrupt its constitutional order and DPA (RTRS)

 

RTRS carries that Christian Schmidt is personally responsible for the growing political crisis in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H), which is a consequence of his intention to impose himself as a High Representative for B&H at any cost, even though he does not meet the basic requirements for this, because the UN Security Council did not accept the proposal for his appointment to this post, it is stated in a joint statement by the heads of the caucuses in the RS National Assembly (RSNA). They called on Schmidt to refrain from all future announced and unannounced provocations that cause political instability in B&H, disrupt its constitutional order and the Dayton Peace Agreement. They also called on the competent institutions of the RS to do everything in their power to minimize the damage of Schmidt’s behavior, defend the constitutional order and prevent the violation of the Dayton Peace Agreement. “We see the announced provocations, in the form of his arrival in Republika Srpska (RS) despite the fact that he is unwelcome on its territory, because his appearance provokes harsh and negative reactions from citizens and institutions that do not accept his attacks on the constitutional order and the Dayton Peace Agreement, as his desperate attempt to invite unrest that would cancel the previous results of the peace process in B&H and set it back, and give him room for political activity”, reads the statement of the heads of caucuses in the RSNA.

 

German Embassy: Dodik’s statements about Schmidt are unacceptable, Dodik’s secessionist policy has consequences (Dnevni avaz)

 

Asked by the daily to comment the statement of Republika Srpska (RS) President Milorad Dodik who announced that High Representative Christian Schmidt would be arrested and deported if he enters the territory of the RS, German Embassy to Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) stated that such statements are completely unacceptable. “Issuing of such an order would be illegal and it would constitute violation of the Dayton Peace Agreement”, the German Embassy underlined. The Embassy noted that for nearly three decades, the Dayton Peace Agreement has been providing a significant contribution to preservation of peace in B&H, and that maintaining the peaceful order is the main task of the High Representative. Furthermore, the Embassy emphasized that Schmidt enjoys full support of the German Federal Government. The Embassy reminded that German Special Envoy for Western Balkans Manuel Sarazzin visited B&H last week and conveyed this message to Dodik. According to the Embassy, continuation of secessionist policy of RS President is harming people who live in the RS, and it has serious consequences. The Embassy reminded that several weeks ago, German Government let four infrastructure projects in the RS expire, and that the European Commission also cancelled funding for projects in the RS.

 

Croatia

 

Brdo-Brijuni summit takes place; Statements of participants (HRT1)

 

The meeting of heads of state as part of the Brdo-Brijuni Process, a political platform launched ten years ago by Croatia and Slovenia in order to speed up the integration of the Western Balkans into the EU, was held in Skopje on Monday. HRT1 pointed out that in contrast to last year’s summit of the Brdo-Brijuni Process where the final declaration was not adopted because part of the tripartite Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) Presidency did not agree with Croatian President Zoran Milanovic's proposal to mention in the document the constituent status of the peoples in B&H, everything went smoothly in Skopje.

 

HRT1 pointed out that the host of the summit of the Brdo-Brijuni Process, President of North Macedonia Stevo Pendarovski, and initiative co-chairs, Slovenian President Natasa Pirc-Musar and Croatian President Zoran Milanovic, made an effort to find topics around which countries in the European waiting room can find common positions despite many open issues between individual countries. Milanovic pointed out that the atmosphere at the summit in Skopje was good, unlike the previous two. “We can help, I mean Croatia and Slovenia, as much as we can, I think we can help a little more so that this part of Europe is integrated into the EU and that this one philosophy and policy of procrastination does not last as long as it has,” Milanovic emphasized. Pirc-Musar pointed out that there are many difficulties on the path to the EU and that Slovenia also faced them. “It is not an easy path. However, our conclusion is not less Europe, but more Europe, more Europe in this region,” Pirc-Musar underlined.

 

Pendarovski stated that stability and prosperity in the region are interdependent. “That is why it is necessary to openly discuss the most difficult issues. We are looking for sustainable solutions. Also, with joint efforts, we must ensure that the Western Balkans is fully returned to the European agenda and remain there,” Pendarovski stressed. The importance of the dialogue between the countries of the Western Balkans was also confirmed by the decision to continue the Brdo-Brijuni Process next year.

 

The Croatian President and the Slovenian President once again confirmed that they will continue to wholeheartedly encourage the acceleration of negotiations and that they will help with their knowledge and their own experiences to ensure that B&H, Serbia, Kosovo, Albania, Montenegro and North Macedonia find themselves in the company of EU countries as full members as soon as possible.

 

The final Declaration signed in Skopje asks the EU to continue its enlargement process and for all the Western Balkans countries to join the Union by 2030. For years, the Western Balkans countries have been waiting for this. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic is especially pessimistic about this process. However, during the summit, all leaders of the region were encouraged by the calm and positive atmosphere in which the meeting was held. They say there are unresolved issues between the countries, but there is also hope that all of this can be solved in the coming period, and that all countries will join the EU by the stated deadline. Leaders thanked Croatia and Slovenia, countries that are part of the EU, for always helping the other Western Balkans countries on their paths towards the Union.

 

Vucic explains that the signed Declaration says that Western Balkans countries wish to become part of the EU “as soon as possible”, and that that should be completed by 2030. Vucic said these are just “nice wishes” and he would not like to burst anyone’s bubble. It would be good if this happened, Vucic said, but he is not sure that that will actually be implemented by 2030.

 

Pendarovski pointed out that the meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere, with confirmation of the importance of regional cooperation, based on honest and open dialogue. Pendarovski said that the desire for membership in the European Union is present in all countries of the Western Balkans, without exception. “Stability and prosperity in the region are interdependent. That is why it is more than necessary to openly discuss the most difficult issues, seek sustainable solutions and close open issues. Also, with joint efforts we must ensure that the Western Balkans is fully returned to the European agenda and remains there”, said Pendarovski. We can help - I mean Croatia and Slovenia - to integrate this part of Europe into the EU and that the philosophy of procrastination and stalling no longer lasts too long, emphasized Milanovic. Montenegro President Jakov Milatovic said that his country can join the EU even before 2030, while Vucic stated that the deadline is way too optimistic.

 

Croatian FM Grlic Radman: We expect from political factors to accelerate European path of B&H by end of the year (Vecernji list)

 

Croatian Foreign Minister (FM) Gordan Grlic Radman stated during his visit to Sofia on Monday that he hopes Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) will open the EU accession negotiations with Brussels by end of this or early next year. “We expect from all relevant political factors to accelerate the European path of B&H by end of the year. Continuation of the Euro-Atlantic integration is crucial for stable and functional B&H”, said Grlic Radman after a meeting with his Bulgarian colleague Mariya Gabriel. Grlic Radman also stated that Serbia and other Western Balkans countries, which have opted for the EU, must follow the EU foreign and security policy, and that each Western Balkans country that has opted for the European perspective must abide by the principles and European values. According to him, it also applies to condemnation of the Russian aggression and the EU sanctions against Russia because of the aggression of Ukraine. “Serbia also must adapt its foreign policy to the common foreign and security policy of the European Union”, added the Croatian FM.

 

Montenegro

 

Milatovic remarks on 2030 as year of EU enlargement: We can be ready to become new EU member much earlier (CDM)

 

President of Montenegro Jakov Milatovic said in Skopje, where the Brdo – Brioni summit is being held, that he is enthusiastic about Montenegro’s membership in the EU, adding that Montenegro’s membership would show that enlargement is alive and really happening, and that it does not exist only at conferences. “We are enthusiastic, and I don’t think we should stop being, when it comes to the EU”, Milatovic has said in response to Tanjug’s question.

Milatovic has confirmed he had an objection to the first draft of the declaration in which 2030 was mentioned in a way that was not precise and clear enough. He assesses that after the democratic changes in Montenegro, important conditions have been achieved for Montenegro to further intensify the process of reforms, above all, those concerning the rule of law. He has added that his proposal that Montenegro be the host country for the next Summit was supported by all participants.

 

Abazovic: I’m surprised by Milatovic’s reaction, he knew everything about trip to USA long ago; support for Becic to be discussed after talks (CDM)

 

Caretaker PM Dritan Abazovic says there will not be two delegations of Montenegro travelling to the session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, but only one led by President Jakov Milatovic. Abayovic points out that Milatovic was informed about him being in the delegation as coordinator of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

 

Milatovic previously assessed that Abazovic’s decision to appear with a special delegation at the gathering of statesmen in New York would introduce confusion and not contribute to the seriousness of the diplomatic representation of the state. Namely, in accordance with the previous practice, Montenegro is represented at the session of the UN General Assembly one year by the president, and the next by the prime minister. Last year, the Montenegrin delegation was led by Abazovic, so this year the delegation should be led by the president.

 

“Montenegro will not have two delegations but one. Each country will be represented by a president or prime minister and a minister of foreign affairs. It will be the same with Montenegro. Milatovic knew this long ago. He volunteered to head the delegation with good will. I don’t want to get into arguments with people who don’t understand what their constitutional powers are. I think there is a misunderstanding in some communication. There is one delegation, it is led by the president, we will go in the capacity of the Minister of Foreign Affairs. The agenda, which is big for the Montenegrin delegation, does not refer exclusively to activities for the General Assembly of the United Nations, and the fact that ordinary people do not understand this does not bother me at all. It is strange that the people who should participate and be part of that delegation do not understand this. I was very surprised by the reaction of Milatovic’s cabinet, which was informed about every detail”, said Abazovic, who visited today the Cetinje Health Center together with Minister of Health Dragoslav Scekic.

 

The public was also surprised when they saw that Abazovic, as the coordinator of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was taking members of his cabinet to the US at the expense of the citizens. The delegation of Milatovic and Abazovic consists of 20 people who will travel to New York at the expense of citizens. Abazovic has no information on how much it will cost.

 

When asked whether URA will support the leader of the Democrats Aleksa Becic as Parliament Speaker, Abazovic said that his party had to talk to the Democrats first.

 

North Macedonia

 

Kovachevski-Sarrazin: Constitutional changes - decision to be part of EU (MIA)

 

Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski met Monday with Germany's Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Manuel Sarrazin, discussing current topics of interest for both countries.

Special Envoy Sarrazin reaffirmed the German government's strong support to North Macedonia progress on the Euro-integration path and Berlin's expectations for swift advancement on that path, the Government said in a press release. Kovachevski and Sarrazin agreed that the decision on the constitutional changes is a decision to be part of the EU.

PM Kovachevski thanked Germany for its continued support, highlighting the German Bundestag's resolution that reaffirmed the strong support to North Macedonia's EU accession, the Macedonian identity, language, culture and history as part of the European mosaic. In addition, the PM voiced expectation that Germany continues to play a key role in the European future of the Western Balkans. Kovachevski expressed optimism that all political parties would unite in securing the required broad support around the realization of the common strategic objective - EU membership - as well as realization of the reform agenda.

Interlocutors agreed that North Macedonia is facing a historic moment that inevitably leads to accelerated economic development and creation of a prosperous European country that provides better life for all citizens, reads the press release.

 

Vucic: We love Macedonian people, we respect North Macedonia and we must protect our friendship (MIA)

 

Someone will always come up with something, we love the Macedonian people, we respect North Macedonia, we do not ask for anything and we must protect our friendship, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said Monday in response to a reporter's question regarding his position on the Bulgarian blockade of North Macedonia's European integration process, MIA's Belgrade correspondent reports. He added there is something important he wants to say, in Skopje, but also to the representatives in Belgrade.

 

"It is important for all of us in the region to be close to one another, to develop our relations, shorten procedures between us, ensure free flow of people, goods, services and capital, have our own growth rate be higher than the European one within the next 10-15 years, and if you were to see the predictions made by the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, we can drastically reduce the difference with Western Europe and present ourselves as a single block despite the differences, and stand before the EU," Vučić stressed at a Brdo-Brioni Process press conference in Skopje. The Serbian President added he had said numerous times and on countless forums "that Serbia recognizes the Macedonian language and the territory of North Macedonia and church; we have not had any issues and we will continue to lead such policies."

 

Pendarovski meets Osmani and Begaj at Brdo-Brijuni Process meeting (MIA)

 

President Stevo Pendarovski met with Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani and Albanian President Bajram Begaj at the sidelines of the Brdo-Brijuni Process leaders' meeting in Skopje on Monday.

 

Pendarovski and Osmani expressed satisfaction from the North Macedonia-Kosovo relations, which have been labelled as friendly, dynamic and based on mutual respect, the President's Office said in a press release. It was agreed that enhancement of goodneighborly relations would contribute to progress, stability and security in the region. Interlocutors reaffirmed the interest for enhancement of cooperation in all fields of mutual interest, especially in the economic sector, while highlighting their commitment to developed infrastructure in the region.

 

Pendarovski and Begaj expressed satisfaction from the continued political dialogue and development of bilateral relations, expecting them to strengthen further in fields of mutual interest. As NATO allies, the two countries are prepared to enrich bilateral cooperation, for the purpose of more active contribution in the security of the region and beyond. Interlocutors assessed that acceleration of North Macedonia and Albania's EU accession would have a positive impact on the entire region, representing a geostrategic investment into a stable and prosperous Union, reads the press release.

 

Pendarovski: No Western Balkans country to join EU if settlement of bilateral issues required first (MIA)

 

Over the past three years, we have had a serious disbalance between the traditional EU accession criteria and the settlement of bilateral disputes, because the Bulgaria row has unfortunately blanketed the traditional accession agenda, said President Stevo Pendarovski on Monday. President Pendarovski held a joint press conference with Slovenian and Croatian counterparts, Natasa Pirc Musar and Zoran Milanovic respectively, after the leaders meeting within the Brdo-Brijuni Process in Skopje. Pendarovski said there has been a rather big disbalance in this regard when it comes to North Macedonia.

 

"We are clear with the fact that the so-called regional clause or goodneighborly relations must be met. In regard to our path until now, it is clear there has been a rather large disbalance between the traditional EU accession criteria and bilateral relations with at least two of our neighbors, while over the past three years the bilateral problem with Bulgaria has blanketed the entire traditional accession agenda. We hope this will change soon because if we insist on solving purely bilateral disputes first, especially if they are based on history and emotions, then no country of the Western Balkans will ever join the EU," said Pendarovski.

 

Croatian President Milanovic highlighted the importance of criteria and dispute settlement, adding they are processes developing in parallel. "There are open issues, especially between Serbia and Kosovo. These are processes developing in parallel and I believe this type of dialogue is beneficial and the worst thing is when phone lines die down, representing the death of dialogue, communication, mutual understanding. One of the most important moments in the recent past is related to identity and self-respect of countries in this area, namely when Ukraine received a candidate status before Bosnia and Herzegovina, something that was unimaginable but it happened," said Milanovic.

 

Slovenian President Pirc Musar said it is unequivocal that settlement of bilateral issues is in the interest of EU, Union accession, but also in the interest of countries aspiring to join. Pirc Musar added she is not a proponent of EU accession delays because of bilateral problems.

 

Brdo-Brijuni Process: Stability and prosperity in region interdependent, regional cooperation based on honest and open dialogue especially important (MIA)

 

The Brdo-Brijuni Process is the only mechanism for cooperation in the region at the level of heads of state, and it is especially important because stability and prosperity in the region are interdependent. That is why it is more than necessary to talk openly about the most difficult issues, to look for sustainable solutions and to close open issues, President Stevo Pendarovski and co-hosts Slovenian and Croatian counterparts, Natasa Pirc Musar and Zoran Milanovic, told a joint press conference after the leaders' meeting within the Brdo-Brijuni Process in Skopje on Monday.

 

The meeting has taken place in a constructive atmosphere, and participants have reaffirmed the importance of the regional cooperation based on honest and open dialogue. As a result, the Skopje Declaration is adopted, which contains the joint findings and commitments of all nine Presidents regarding the topics that were the subject of Monday’s discussion.

 

Croatia's President Zoran Milanovic said it was an encouraging sign that the atmosphere at today's meeting was better than at the previous two meetings. "We discussed topics that connect us and have such potential, not topics that have not yet been resolved because experience has shown that it is counterproductive and even harmful," said Milanovic. According to Milanovic, this is the only process that is regionally owned, and there are no mentors, commissions and other EU members involved. "We've had promoters and mentors as guests several times in the previous years. I looked at that from another position at the time, and I didn't like it too much. In a political sense, we are all adults as states and political nations. We are talking in this format, and I think it should continue like that," Milanovic said.

 

Slovenia's President Natasa Pirc Musar pointed out that talks were constructive, and mainly focused on the European Union and the young people. "Slovenia supports all Western Balkan countries in the accession process and is always ready to help with its own experience," Pirc Musar said. Pirc Musar expressed satisfaction that the joint declaration, which also identifies several concrete actions for the first time, has been harmonized. She stressed that the Brdo-Brijuni Process will continue, noting that there are already two candidates to host the next meeting. "As the President of Slovenia, I'd like to thank all my colleagues from the Western Balkan countries for the help provided in dealing with the floods. These were the countries that first offered their help and were among the first to arrive in Slovenia," said Pirc Musar.

According to Pirc Musar, after 11 years since the beginning of the process this is the first time that three women sit at the table, and according to what she had seen today, she noted that it is very important to talk to each other. "You mentioned the Berlin Process, and these two processes are primarily different. Brdo-Brijuni is primarily intended for the heads of state, while the Berlin Process is for the executive. But in the end, as presidents, with our rhetoric and our attitude, conversation and calmness, we can do a lot. Slovenia and Croatia are EU members. The two countries can help the Western Balkan countries with their advice. I sincerely wish that this process continues because it is extremely useful," Pirc Musar pointed out.

 

President Pendarovski noted that the first topic of today’s meeting was the number one priority for the countries of the Western Balkans, namely their European aspirations. "The desire for membership in the European Union, without exception, present in all countries that are part of this forum, is a significant factor that motivates and connects us. In that context, it is clear to all of us that we need to achieve European standards of good governance and a functioning market economy," Pendarovski said. With joint efforts, Pendarovski stressed, we must ensure that the Western Balkans return fully to the European agenda and stay there. "There is no doubt that the future, not only of our region, but also of the world, will be defined by the biggest global challenge, which is climate change. In that sense, we all agree that we must strengthen our efforts in this global race against time, by bringing solutions that will mitigate the negative consequences of climate change, and include social, political and regional solidarity," said Pendarovski. Pendarovski added that talks also focused on, without hesitation, the biggest challenge for the region – the emigration of young people.  "The common conclusion of all those present was that if we do not stand in the way of this trend and if it is not slowed down with concrete policies, a much worse future awaits us than the one that we can currently anticipate. Our common message is to redouble bilateral and regional efforts to create prospects for young people to stay in the region and realize themselves in their countries," Pendarovski pointed out.

 

The Brdo-Brijuni Process was initiated in 2013 by Slovenian president Borut Pahor and Croatian president Ivo Josipovic. The first meeting was held in Slovenia's Brdo near Kranj.

The main goal of the process is the full integration of the Western Balkans into the European Union, as well as the stabilization of the regional situation by strengthening cooperation and resolving open issues. The leaders of the Brdo-Brijuni Process countries meet at least once a year.

 

Albania

 

President of the Republic, Bajram Begaj, participates in the Meeting of Leaders of the Brdo-Brijuni Process (Radio Tirana)

 

The President of the Republic, Bajram Begaj, participated in the next Meeting of Leaders of the Brdo-Brijuni Process in Skopje, North Macedonia. During the Plenary Session of the Heads of Delegations of the Brdo-Brijuni Process that took place behind closed doors, President Begaj delivered his speech, where he gave his perspective on the summit.

 

In a statement to the media, President Begaj assessed: "Today's meeting comes at an important moment, as we know, from the geopolitical situation, which is related to the Russian aggression in Ukraine. Being together to discuss the challenges that the countries of the Western Balkans have to face is extremely important. The challenges are almost the same in all the countries of the Western Balkans and the issues that were addressed during this summit were related to the process of integration into the European Union of the countries of the Western Balkans, it was related to some more sensitive issues for our peoples who are related to youth, to emigration, and also to challenges related to climate change", said President Begaj. The Head of State expressed that he was optimistic that the strategic objective for all Western Balkan countries, that of entering the European Union, will become a reality.

 

At the end of the meeting, the Heads of State of the Brdo-Brijuni Process approved a joint statement, underlining the need to accelerate the EU enlargement process with the countries of the Western Balkans, cooperation and coordination to face together the effects of climate change , as well as the creation of joint projects and programs to mitigate the effects of the emigration of young people from the countries of the region.

 

During the day, President Begaj held a series of bilateral meetings with some of the Heads of State of the region. Initially, President Begaj met with the President of North Macedonia, Stevo Pendarovski. During the meeting, the presidents appreciated the very good relations between Albania and North Macedonia, which are an example of constructive cooperation, in the interest not only of the progress of the two countries, but of the entire region.

 

The Head of State also met with the President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatovic. The focus of the meeting was the strengthening of cooperation between Albania and Montenegro, as well as the common interest of advancing the European agenda. The two countries have an important role in the stability and prosperity of the region.

 

Part of the agenda was also the meeting with the representatives of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Zeljko Komsic, Denis Becirovic and Zeljka Cvijanovic, with whom it was discussed the necessity of promoting the spirit of regional and comprehensive cooperation, for a Western Balkans as safe and integrated as soon as possible in the European Union.

 

Begaj meets with representatives of Albanian political parties in North Macedonia (Radio Tirana)

 

During his stay in Skopje, the President of the Republic, Bajram Begaj met with the representatives of the main Albanian political parties in North Macedonia. Meetings were held with the Chairman of the Albanian Democratic Party, Menduh Thaci, with the Chairman of the Democratic Movement, Izet Mejhiti, with the Chairman of the Democratic Union for Integration, Ali Ahmeti, with the Chairman of the European Democratic Party, Arjanit Hoxha, as well as with other figures of important of politics in North Macedonia.

During the talks, President Begaj focused on the need for closer coordination between the Albanian factor in the region. This would be primarily to the benefit of all the Albanians' well-being, and also to the fulfilment of the strategic objective as soon as possible, that of the integration of the countries of the region into the European Union.

 

Albania aims to further align Albanian legislation with that of the EU (Radio Tirana)

 

Albania aims to accelerate the approximation of legislation with the EU within the process of the country's integration into the European Union. Under the direction of the vice president, Blendi Klosi, the Committee for Foreign Policy met today. The committee considered the draft law "On some additions and changes to law no. 116/2014 "On the accreditation of conformity assessment bodies in the Republic of Albania". Invited to present this bill were the Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy, Endrit Yzeiraj and Ardita Mele, vice-Director of Accreditation.

 

The Deputy Minister of Finance, Yzeiraj, during his speech stated that, "the draft law in question aims at the further alignment of Albanian legislation with that of the European Union in accordance with the priority measure of the point the primary goal of European integration, where it is determined that Albania intends to fully implement the Agreement of Stabilization Association".

 

The relator of the case, Lavdrim Krashi, underlined that, "the reason why this draft law is coming is the improvement since there is no compatibility with the EU". According to him, the request of all Albanians is that the integration of Albania in the EU should be a process as fast as possible. "Improving this existing law is our duty and alignment with EU legislation will provide the opportunity to have a conformity assessment system in the accreditation process, ensuring impartiality, fair competition and combating conflict of interest in terms of standards for which we all work", declared Krashi. After questions and discussions, the committee approved in principle, article by article and in its entirety the draft law in question.