The President of Kosovo, Hashim Thaci, said that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission intends an internal reconciliation between Albanian and Serb communities.

During his speech at the second meeting of this commission, Thaci said that this process is  separate from the one of the discussions with Serbia in Brussels, but it will help on reaching new agreements.

On today’s first meeting of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, President of Kosovo Hashim Thaci said hostilities that have caused wars are still present and dominate social discourse. “There is still a gap between the communities and this could still keep us in the depths of hatred and hostilities caused by war.” Thaci said adding that Kosovo society cannot build a better future if it remains prisoner of the past.

Prime Minister of Kosovo, Isa Mustafa, said that Kosovo and Serbia will not be able to build a future if they don’t deal with the past. In the first meeting of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission set up by President Hashim Thaci, Mustafa said that war crimes will not be forgotten. “By bravely addressing our past we win trust and strengthen the hope of our citizens for building a safe future. The past cannot hinder us in building the future if we prosecute and sentence those that have committed crimes,” Mustafa said.

The United States Ambassador in Kosovo, Greg Delawie, has congratulated Kosovo’s institutions for their steps toward reconciliation. He said the Truth and Reconciliation Commission must be independent and transparent and include citizens from all ethnic backgrounds. Delawie also said that individuals that are part of this commission and share their experiences must be given protection by the government and the commission. “The United States of America will remain your partner as long as you seek justice and the truth,” he added.

Kosovo Assembly President, Kadri Veseli, has welcomed President Hashim Thaci’s initiative to establish the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. At the first consultative meeting, Veseli said Kosovo’s institutions are proving their readiness to shed light on the past, face its truths and help heal the wounds of the past. “Our people paid a very high price for freedom and independence. The wounds were deep and unfortunately they have not healed yet. Years go by and we still don’t know about the fate of thousands of Kosovo citizens.