The Council of Albanian Ambassadors welcomes the latest developments in the dialogue between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Serbia for the settlement of their inter – state disagreements.
As we have continuously and with full confidence emphasized, the source of problems and tensions between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Serbia is Belgrade’s refusal to recognize Kosovo’s right to exist and its incessant attempts to undermine Kosovo state with might and main.
Official Belgrade has not given up its past hegemonist policies, remaining in this way a generator of tensions in the region.
The Council of Albanian Ambassadors voices its support for the increased European and American commitment towards moving to the conclusion of the process of dialogue between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Serbia.
This painstaking but indispensable process will reach its natural destination only when Serbia recognizes Kosovo as a sovereign independent state and when it is sincerely oriented to the Euro-Atlantic orbit. This would benefit the entire region and the Republic of Serbia first.
The CAA considers the so – called Franco-German Plan as a general frame, which sets the track for the settlement of inter-state relations between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Serbia.
Although this plan does not explicitly specify the obligation of the Republic of Serbia to recognize the Republic of Kosovo, it frames their relations on the basis of the principles of sovereign equality and other principles of UN Charter, the underlying basis for the promotion of peaceful relations and cooperation among independent states.
While expressing the readiness by the Republic of Kosovo to accept this European proposal supported by the USA, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Mr. Albin Kurti has shown that the Republic of Kosovo is serious and committed to solve the problems with the Republic of Serbia, as two sovereign and equal states and to move ahead towards the Euro-Atlantic integration.
The CAA emphasizes that the Republic of Kosovo has displayed its will to safeguard both the rights and its very advanced position for the Serbian minority in Kosovo, as well as the Serbian religious and cultural heritage.
Accordingly, each and every further commitment by the Republic of Kosovo on additional rights and privileges for the Serbian citizens in the Republic of Kosovo, including obligations stemming from international agreements signed during the dialogue process should fully comply with the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo.
The CAA expresses its firm confidence on the successful conclusion of the process of the dialogue between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Serbia; to this end, the EU and USA should step up their own pledges and commitment to carry on the process of integration for the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Serbia in the international system.
Kosovo’s accession to the major European and international organizations and its recognition by the five EU Member States that have not as yet done it is essential to increase citizens’ trust in the dialogue facilitated by the EU with the US support.
The CAA appeals to Greece, Spain, Romania, Slovakia and Cyprus to recognize Kosovo’s Independence, whose legitimacy is also acknowledged by the International Court of Justice.
Failing to recognize Kosovo, these countries will willingly or unwillingly, become a major hindrance, not only to the unstoppable process towards the full integration of the Republic of Kosovo in the international system but also to strengthening peace, security and stability in Western Balkans.
Finally, CAA calls on the Government of the Republic of Albania and on the other central institutions of Albania’s state to pursue an active and courageous policy in supporting the Republic of Kosovo during this decisive period.
Tirana, 2 March 2023.
/Argumentum.al
