Kosovo President Hashim Thaçi told Top Channel in an exclusive interview that the unification of the Persheva Valley with the country does not mean territorial exchanges with Serbia. He admits not having discussed the issue with Albanian authorities but believes Albania will not oppose the will of Presheva citizens.
“Kosovo’s territories will not be divided or exchanged under any circumstances. But we are seeking to unify Presheva Bujanovci and Medvegja with the Republic of Kosovo. Territorial exchange is an historical request from Serbia and will not happen. On the other side, our request is I think legitime, logical, historical and reflects the peoples’ will”, Thaçi told Top Channel.
Thaçi thinks the request can and should be accomplished peacefully and it will not meet opposition from the US, NATO and EU countries. “If there will be a bipartisan agreement no one will be against it. Belgium and The Netherlands did the same thing two years ago”, Thaçi added. “We have yet to discuss officially anything with Albanian authorities, but I don’t want to believe that Albania will oppose this action. I hope Albania will support the will of the people of Presheva, Bujanovci and Medvegja”.
Asked by Top Channel if this step paves the way for Kosovo and Albania to unify, Thaçi responded: “The will of the citizens of Kosovo is that of a future within EU. That is our vision too”.
When it comes to comment on his apparent reply to former Prime Minister Sali Berisha on Facebook, Thaçi denies having a problem with him. “I have not responded to someone personally, I just commented on past developments in Kosovo and in the region. With all Albanian Presidents and Prime Ministers I have had correct discussions on any topic”, Thaçi added.
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