The future of the Western Balkans is the European Union, according to former Foreign Minister Tritan Shehu. He thinks the theses for border correction or changes are something of the past, not the future. “We are about to devalue borders in the region at these moments, by implementing EU laws and regulations. Tomorrow we will eliminate the borders between us, because we will all be members of the EU”, Shehu told Top Channel.
Kosovo President Hashim Thaci’s idea, which in any case implies changing the map of the Independent State of Kosovo, would go against the strategy of the European and American partners that have invested in the country.
“You give the message that “you have done a mistake” and now you have to open the box again. But this box could be very wide and no one how it will go and where it will lead. If anyone thinks Serbia has become a “gentle lion” that can give everything, they are so wrong. After Serbia, there are other powered interested to delay the Balkans integration into the EU”, Shehu added.
Russia and Turkey, according to former Defense Minister Fatmir Mediu, are increasing the impact on the Balkans, which is no longer on the EU or US attention as before, when Albania joined NATO or Kosovo won Independence. “I would say that Albanians are today in the most dangerous situation possible after the 90s, or after the declaration of Kosovo’s independence,” Mediu said.
Europe’s skepticism towards the region and America’s focus on domestic and global politics and security issues means that Albanians should send the right messages. “Every negotiation needs to start with one thing only: recognition of Kosovo’s independence by Serbia. Then all the other elements should be discussed, but both parties should sit as equals on the table”.
Top Channel
