8th round of Kosovo talks ends without agreement

I hope both sides find a solution, and we can all move along! Kosova is finally free -Serbia needs to accept that. Yes we got help from NATO but you got Vojvodina with the help of Russia too.

Vučić "offered his resignation, which was rejected."

Actually Vucic said I'm not coming anymore to these meetings since Thaci shouts at me.. :(

on more serious note (although Thaci effectively showed Vucic the exit door if he does not behave), I think Kosova needs to grant slightly more autonomy to the north but of course not agree with the Serbian BS of no Army or which laws need to be applied.

The situation is very clear: Kosova's laws and future Kosova's army operational range cannot be limted.

The rest how will those laws be implemeted in north, what special ties north will have with Serbia that is all easy solutions if there is a good will.

I strongly bealive thou that the best possible solution would be a) land swap between Kosova and Serbia, b) mutual recognition, c) large autonmy to the serbian municipalities in Kosova with international guarantees and d) special links of Serbia municipalities with Serbia in helth education and social services.

Serbian municipalities are very poor, under-developed and unemployment rate is +50%.

We have our own poor people. I don't want my tax money to be spent to pay for the education, health and social aids to Serbs in Kosova that hate me. Serbia is eager to pay for them? be my guest. Stupid as they are, they will even claim it a victory.

Prishtina(slavic name) has to give up the north in my opinion.
As an Albanian (from Fier), I believe that Kosovo was part of Serbia.
The truth is that during the Ottoman occupation most of the Muslim Albanians moved there.
Don't forget that there are no Albanian medieval Churches present in Kosovo (a slavic name). Investigate History.

To all those albanians who said their was going to be a deal because of Serbia so desperately needs Eu candidate status: Hahaha! You thought serbs were that desperate. Haaaaaa!

@Ben,

The best solution would be a large autonomy to Pristina (which is already has) and no possible recognition of the secession of the southern province of Serbia.

The next best solution would be to stop the ethnic cleansing and scare tactics Albanians are using on a daily basis to rid the population of Kosovo of all Serb minorities.

Then Pristina should pay for the complete reconstruction of all cemeteries and churches that were destroyed.

Then Pristina should immediately cease to change the history of Kosovo with lies and propaganda from Albanian historians who cannot accept the truth.

Then NATO should clean up depleted Uranium in Kosovo and then be shown the exit door for good.

EULEX should be prosecuted for doing absolutely NOTHING and answer for the billion + euros that have been uselessly spent whilst Kosovo remains the main heroin hub for Europe.

To "Ben": Its your type of stupid comments about Serbs which illustrates perfectly why we do not want Kosovo to be part of the EU. The majority of citizens of EU Member States do not want an "independent" Kosovo in the EU. I don't want my tax money supporting racist, bloody-minded people such as you.

By not agreeing to the Freedom of the Serbian Muncipalities,
the Kosovo Albanians will cause the Kosovo issue to be solved by War only.

The Kosovo Albanians will lose everything by demanding everything.

Arn.Sweden.

Cause of this failure to negotiate, support in Serbia for EU memebership will drop. Serbia really expected for EU to put some pressure on Pristina as well.

"The eighth round of the Kosovo dialogue ended in Brussels late on Tuesday with the two sides unable to reach an agreement."

Of course; why on Earth would Kosovo help Serbia to become an EU member ?!

ben, 3 April 2013 00:58)

I’m very curious. What are you going to fund this Kosovo army with? The EU is no longer able to sustain anyone for too long and this has been shown by the level of unemployment reaching 12% within the Union. Germany is in deep recession so no help from there.

Where is this pot of gold coming from?

On the issue of unemployment, Kosovo is now at 80% so the Serbian parts are no worse off than the Albanians.

I'm glad that Serbia finally has someone with a spine. Of course, that he won't accept that Serbs are in the juristiction of Kosovo courts and police. Serbia lost nothing yesterday. If we accept nothing we gain nothing, if we reject nothing, we again gain nothing.

Dardania why do albanians keep saying"you got Vojdovina".its been serbian for 100 years and in 70% serbian.

Well, rest assured that the Serbian media is preparing the next round of "Organ Harvesting" propoganda for next week! Like clockwork, they always present some crazy stories in the middle of important negotiations. Its laughable at best.

Not much a surprise. Vucic offered resignation is another clear sign of the failure of the Serbian policy. The door to the EU is now for at least one year closed and Serbia loses tremendous amounts of investments. I even doubt that next year there will be any serious considerations, since EU enlargement fatigue will just grow.

Serbia's return to the 1990s is effectively consolidated.

Surprise, surprise.
Serbia doesn't seem to get it. How can you go into negotiations without a trump card and expect to get out on top.
They have nothing to bargain with while at the same time the Albanians already have recognition from many countries.
Serbia can claim to being backed by China and Russia, two powerful nations, but who are suspect of only being selfish in their support. If China recognised Kosovo then why not Tibet. If Russia recognised Kosovo then why not Chechnya. A good reason to back Serbia.
On the other hand Kosovo needs recognition from these two superpowers in order to get a UN seat. I am sure that Serbia used this carrot but Kosovo knows it has full support of the USA and is playing for time which is much more on their side than on the side of Serbia, who is vying for EU membership.
However having said all of this maybe after all it is not such a bad thing for Serbia. Serbia may have lost Kosovo but will have saved face and saving face has much respect from Russia and especially China.
Serbia has friends, it does not stand alone but knowing that the situation with Kosovo has reached a stalemate they should now forget the EU and focus instead on the economy and on forging relationships with those it can rely on to help it progress.

Hahahaha. Bye-bye EU-status for Serbia. Don't cry for me Argentina....I never left you...

In case you don't know: 'Kosova' doesn't have an army, UN1244 only allowed armed forces without heavy weapons.
(Comm. Parrisson, 3 April 2013 10:50)

Of course Kosova doensn't have an army yet. We currently have the 3,500 strong Kosova Security Force which is currently lightly armed however come June it will be transformed into the Kosovan Army. The Kosovan Air Force will also be established, we already have pilots being trained in Turkey. JUNE 2013!

Serbia went into these talks with the full knowledge that they will fail. The EU expected the Serbs to buckle under the pressure of “do as we say or no EU”.
Kosovo is now and will remain stagnant until Belgrade changes its mind and time is certainly on the side of the Serbs. The latest economic indicators show the EU is heading for very high unemployment with Germany’s economy predicted to rise by 0.3% in 2013 which means a very sharp increase in unemployed in that country.
The Asians have factored into their five year plans a stagnant EU economy with the highest levels of unemployment since the 1930s. Meanwhile back at the ranch the US is starting little fires to take away the American population’s attention from the terrible economic problems.
The breakdown of these talks is exactly what Moscows wants.
Well done Serbia. It’s one of the best manoeuvres I’ve seen in a long time and it’s something my grandchildren will be reading in textbooks at University in the future.

“... what you;re grandchildren will learn about is what you yourself learned about, nonsense about Lazar and Dushan”.
(Nikolle, 3 April 2013 12:33)

There is a lot of words here in your post but tell me what is the obvious that you talking about? It’s been 14 years since the west came into Kosovo and what has changed? The answer is ZERO.
Oh, the bad news is Serbia is not going to join the EU. Yeah it’s real bad and I’m weeping uncontrollably. It’s only the Albanians who think that money grows on trees and there is a pot of gold in Brussels. I’m sure your mother will never send you to the market to sell the family cow otherwise you’d come back with three magic beans.
But it makes me happy to see the Albanians pissed off and you certainly are at that.

(Nikolle, 3 April 2013 12:31)
“... i don't know, maybe some here like to see burning villages and columns upon columns of refugees”.

Then why do your Albanians from Kosovo constantly leave that piece of Albanian heaven for Serbia proper and pretend to be Serbs looking for work???????
Why??? To work for people that burnt their homes etc? Yeah take your hand off it please otherwise you’ll pull it right off.

oh no sj, i am aware that you think Serbia has become a haven for migrant workers :-). not only Albanians are going to Serbia sj, we have the French, the Spanish, the Cypriots, Italians, Greeks, Germans, we're all going to that workers paradise called Serbia :-), where the monthly wage is around 360 EURO's a month, like in Kosova :-) but hey, what is money compared to feeling the love of the heavenly people. p.s. there's a section on B92 called Economic Crisis in Serbia, you should click on it sometimes. face it looking for a job in Serbia is the same as looking for water in the sun...not gonna find it

trizo

its a good thing you're well balanced isn't it ? i make absolutely no apology for being biased, it still doesn't invalidate my claim that Kosova now is INFINITELY better than it was when belgrade ruled roost. as an Aussie, you can come and see for yourself anytime

The days of belgrade dictating the terms - by force of terror - are over, thank god. the rest are details...

we always said progress would happen when the internationals use carrot/stick approach, rather than their usual dumb bumbling. in a sense, europe has finally done something right in the balkans, despite all of the mistakes and unspoken truths...

if only this could be done for bosnia - the internationals are so utterly blind and short-sighted.

no more republika srpskas, built on genocide.

but there is still no mention of the missing, especially the over 1,000 albanians and some hundreds of serbs and others. the mass gravesite at raska has yet to be opened and exhumed. i feel like a broken record, but in the future i will loudly say, "i told you so." repeatedly.

the media, ALL of the media bears much responsibility. belgrade has used the lies and stories of the dick marty report (from moscow) to prevent all talk of serbia's war crimes and atrocities. the media has been stupid and kow=towing enough to follow suit. so pathetic.

talk on...

roberto pristina/frisco

"The situation is very clear: Kosova's laws and future Kosova's army operational range cannot be limted. "
(ben, 3 April 2013 00:58)

In case you don't know: 'Kosova' doesn't have an army, UN1244 only allowed armed forces without heavy weapons.

there's no such thing as bad news for you is there sj :-) ? its actually really sweet, you refuse to see the obvious. most people would say you're deluded, i just call you a dreamer, it sounds less hard hitting. what you;re grandchildren will learn about is what you yourself learned about, nonsense about Lazar and Dushan

On the issue of unemployment, Kosovo is now at 80% so the Serbian parts are no worse off than the Albanians.
(sj, 3 April 2013 02:05)

Fist it was 1 in 5 (20%) people in the UK are unemployed, when it was actually 7.8%. Now it is 80% of Kosovo is unemployed, that is a funny one mate. Unemployment in Kosovo stood at 40% in April 2012 and it will have decreased further in the last financial year as Kosovo's economy continues to grow.

http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/scr/2012/cr12100.pdf

The unemployment rate in Kosovo was at 47.5% in April 2008 and 45.4% in April 2009, uemployment fell to 40% by April 2010 but grew slightly in 2011 before going back down to 40% by April 2012.

But I do not know why I'm bothering to inform you of this because you clearly have no idea what unemployment is.

Kosovo is at 80% unemployment? You must be mad if you actually believe that. But then again, you actually believe that one in five in the UK are unemployed!

Joe

What is it like baking pizzas all day long in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada?

Ben,
you had stated that
"For each Serb in Kosova there are 9 Albanians"

but in reality you probably meant to say the following

For each Albanian in Serbia there are 9 Serbians!

or how about the following

For each Northern Kosovo Albanian there are 9 Northern Kosovo Serbs

Kosovo is at 80% unemployment? You must be mad if you actually believe that. But then again, you actually believe that one in five in the UK are unemployed!
(Ian, UK, 3 April 2013 14:19)
Why do you bother? sj is harmless, even the Serbs on here knows that 99.9997% of what he writes is bs.

What is it like baking pizzas all day long in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada?
(Another Canadian Serb, 3 April 2013 14:26)
One thing I have never been able to understand about the Serb mentality. Why do you equate baking pizzas as a bad thing. It is an honest profession. One minute you call all Albanians heroin dealers and then the next you try to paint people who work hardfor their money in an honest profession as some type of low life. I have never understood how Serbs developed their superiority complex as it is baseless. Many on here have been lucky to travel to countries that have afforded them educations and good jobs which they would never have gotten in the homeland of Serbia but they still hold on to the master race card.

My father told me that there is no shame to a man earning a living and supporting a family with an honest job. I have carried that philosophy all my life. Every waiter, cleaner, construction worker, road crew, farmer can hold their head high many times rightfully so more than CEO's definitely politicians, or those in the banking industry.

It was 2006 and I was 50 years old before ever being exposed to the rot in the balkans. It is an ugly sight. And the whole time there I never was able to tell the difference between the ordinary Serb and Albanian other than who they hated.

There's a way out. Pristina really doesn't care about "ruling" the Serbs in the North, but they are worried that politicians there and in Belgrade will use any powers they get to take the area out of Kosovo at some point in the future. So, let the politicians in the north and in Belgrade formally renounce any attempt at independence or joining Serbia in the future, just as the Albanians renounced joining Albania in their declaration of independence and constitution. Pristina will want guarantees, but then, the Serbs want guarantees for their churches and monasteries. There's no reason they can't come to an agreement. If Belgrade still wants to finance services under such an arrangement - please, be my guest.

I hope both sides find a solution, and we can all move along! Kosova is finally free -Serbia needs to accept that. Yes we got help from NATO but you got Vojvodina with the help of Russia too.
(Dardania, 3 April 2013 00:53)
There will have to be a split. There is no other choice for Prishtina. Serbs don't want to be ruled by the current Albanian authorities. Accept that and we can move on. Do you really want to have a pissed off population living under Prishtina's rule? They will just rebel and there will be trouble again. They will leave and that's the way it will end, and they will leave with their part of Kosovo intact and under Serbian rule.

Someone has to throw the towel. Four more rounds of kiddies boxing match lol

(Anthony (in Berlin), 3 April 2013 08:46

For each Serb in Kosova there are 9 Albanians. Yet this Serbs says I hate them all I don't want to do nothing with them, no to their school, no to their health care, no to their society.

And Serbian state says: yes you are right you should ignore all of your 9 neighbours and do not have any ties with them I will pay for your needs

And I am the racists??????

have you lost your ability of critical thinking or thing are much simpler you lost your mind????

"Serbia can claim to being backed by China and Russia, two powerful nations, but who are suspect of only being selfish in their support. If China recognised Kosovo then why not Tibet. If Russia recognised Kosovo then why not Chechnya. A good reason to back Serbia. "
(T, 3 April 2013 10:00)

Well, with his argument: The west supports Kosovo because they supports an independent state for minorities. Why does they not support Palestine? Why not South Ossetia? So I really wonder why Kosovo is supported by the western powers, especially when they must realize that this Kosovo is not a multi-ethnic, democratic, European state but a corrupt entity with ethnically motivated violence and criminal election faking politicians who turned it into a haven for drug mafia.

who has ever said the west doesn't support a state for Palestinians? don't they espouse a two state solution? however bad Kosova is today, its still infinitely better to what it was when Serbia had control. i don't know, maybe some here like to see burning villages and columns upon columns of refugees.

Hahahaha. Bye-bye EU-status for Serbia. Don't cry for me Argentina....I never left you...
(Joe, 3 April 2013 13:19)
The scene reminds me of the movie Great Expectations, where Ms Haversham is sitting in her decades old wedding dress overlooking the dried up wedding cake with all the decorations covered in cobwebs and rats. Sitting there in disbelief that her dream was gone forever. Serbia's party is gone, their foolish belief that the world would one day say sure you murdered, raped, tortured and tried to cleanse an entire group of people from their homes, but what the hell here are the keys, you can have it back.
The old geezers will sit in the bars cheering their past, the children outside realizing a dismal future.

What is it like baking pizzas all day long in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada?
(Another Canadian Serb, 3 April 2013 14:26)

Dont forget Srebernica kiddo....the world definitely has not. Largest act of genocide in Europe since WWII.

These talks must continue in order to explore the conditions for Serbia entering the EU. If the conditions are unfair, it is not a problem for Serbia to say no until the conditions are fair because the world, including BRICS, is much bigger economically than merely the EU. Serbia can trade with many nations, though it absolutely must clean up its own house. The province of Kosovo can't enter the UN and thus the EU without agreement pursuant to UNSC 1244 which governs this matter. Serbia is a UN nation, Kosovo is not. Serbia can wait and do business with others if Pristina won't negotiate because the West won't carry Pristina like a child forever. No UN for the province of Kosovo until Russia and China allow it.

So what about the burning and desecrating of our sacred churches and cemeteries?????

-- As a Serb burned Catholic churches and mosques don't count??????

Now to put it in perspective. If your house has been burned, if you cousins have been killed, if you have been deported and walked barefoot and hungry through snowy mountains in the middle of the winter how does that even compare with a church? You go to church once a week once week, once a yera for most people. You LIVE in your house. You LOVE your cousins and you DIE walking in the woods in the winter. You complain about an empty building raised to glorify a figment of your imagination, a fictitious supernatural building? Be real next time. You cannot compare a ruined life with a ruined building. If you care about ruined buildings and not ruined lives, don't forget to mention the destroyed catholic churches and mosques done by the hands of the church.

Still today the diehards write trying to convince mainly themselves that they are a better people and in a better place than Albanians. Look to yourself and realize your past and then only then will you have a future.

Well done Serbia. It’s one of the best manoeuvres I’ve seen in a long time,
(sj, 3 April 2013 11:34)
That is what you say when the contestent on Jeopardy wagers everything and he has the winning question, unfortunately this time Serbia overplayed their confidence, lost everything and went home empty handed. Good luck paying back those Chinese loans. I am sure Russia will be at your Going out of business sale to pick up some cheap assets.
Maybe Jeremic can secure an aid package for you before he leaves office.

Some EU Member States have started to express their disapproval of the treatment of EU candidate Serbia by Germany during the most recent negotiations between Serbian negotiators and ethnic Albanians in Kosovo.
All this has begun to annoy a number of existing members of the European Union, some of who see Germany “moving the goalposts” on Serbia every step closer it comes to the EU. “No other country has had to jump through as many hoops as Serbia during the accession process” said one parliamentarian under a condition of anonymity. Some countries have even considered revoking their recognition of Kosovo until a formal agreement between the two sides are met. Strong public pressure in countries such as the Czech Republic and Poland, both Slavic nations, that have recently experienced mass demonstrations in support of Serbia’s territorial integrity. Italian carmaker Fiat alone has invested over 940 million Euros in Serbia, and sees any delay in Serbia’s accession to the EU as detrimental to their business interests. There are currently 5 member states of the European Union that have not recognized Kosovo, but the likelihood of this number rising as a response to additional conditions being imposed on Serbia becomes greater with every delay.

Hey Captain America,

Serbia was found not guilty of Bosnian Genocide!

I don't know where you gather your infromation from,but I would recommend the following link for your viewing pleasure.

http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=serbian%20genocide%20suit%20in%20bosnia&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&ved=0CDoQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FBosnian_Genocide_Case&ei=RThcUf-wEcqprQGsxYDACQ&usg=AFQjCNFU5vE-MBsXdJC20NT_olY6Uql_PQ

(Leonidas, 3 April 2013 16:13)

So what if all them groups aren't included as "unemployed"? Them figuers don't include the retired, babies, school children and those in full time education either. The figure 7.8% is in relation to the available labour force, which is similar definition to most Western and European countries. The definition of "unemployed" is still the same as before the economic crisis of 2008. Also people on work programmes are still in education and are therefore not unemployed, also part time/ half time workers are not unemployed either. I've admitted that real unemployment in the UK is above the offical 7.8%, but it is certainly a lot lot lot lower than 20%.

Northern Kosovo can be dealt with and Kosovo has the necessary mechanisms at is't disposal. And this is clear to all of us.

Kosovos Territorial Integrity is respected by all Countries that have recognized Kosovo. It is same countries that have asked Kosovo not to intervene in the North hopping an agreement will be reached eventually, it it is not possible. No Serb politician as brave or strong enough to do the right thing at the moment.

Since no agreement reached than it is about time International Community agrees Kosovo uses it's state mechanisms it has to its disposal to bring law and order in it's entire territory. This silently would in fact be welcomed by Serbia as by than Serbian people and politicians will like in the case of KNIN say, well there is nothing one can do, lets move on with our lives.

The 8th round of talks failed because Pristina will not compromise. UNSCR 1244 specifically refers to "the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" of Serbia. Negotiations that are mindful of UNSCR 1244 should really include discussions on Kosovo status and its proper re-integration into Serbia. Anything short of this demonstrates an extraordinary compromise on part of the Serbian negotiating team. It is unfathomable to see how Serbia can compromise any further than it already has.

The 8th round of talks failed because Pristina will not compromise. UNSCR 1244 specifically refers to "the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" of Serbia. Negotiations that are mindful of UNSCR 1244 should really include discussions on Kosovo status and its proper re-integration into Serbia. Anything short of this demonstrates an extraordinary compromise on part of the Serbian negotiating team. It is unfathomable to see how Serbia can compromise any further than it already has.
(Nikola, 3 April 2013 19:14)

The 8th round failed as there wasn't a solution acceptable to both parties. When you say that "Pristina will not compromise", do you mean that Pristina didn't accept what Belgrade offered? Well Belgrade didn't accept what Pristina offered either.

No, UNSCR 1244 refers to "the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" of the 'Federal Republic of Yugoslavia', which was succeeded by a state called the 'Union State of Serbia and Montenegro' and one S&M's successor states recognises Kosovo.

FR Yugoslavia's sovereignty and territorial integrity was only guaranteed by UNSCR 1244 while Kosovo's future was to be established, it was by no means a permanent guarantee. Also UNSCR 1244 talks about FR Yugoslavia's sovereignty and territorial integrity in regards to the Helsinki Accords which itself isn't a legally binding act and there are several articles in the Helsinki Accords which can be used to legally justify Kosovo's independence.

Serbia is the successor state to Yugoslavia and Serbia and Montenegro. Montenegro doesn't count anymore because Serbia is the successor state. Kosovo was always part of Serbia not a part of Yugoslavia or Serbia and Montenegro and Kosovo!!! Provinces of Serbia follow Serbia anyway not Montenegro.

sj, 3 April 2013 11:34)
But probably not in the universities in Belgrade, however, I am sure a diploma will be cheap there. Hope your children learn the lesson that is to come out of this. Not to follow the advice of their father or choose to live in isolation and poverty.

Comm. Parrisson, 3 April 2013 11:15) you do see support for Palestine in the west, the US is the big holdout and that is due to its commitments to Israel. I think South Ossetia is an obvious answer, the same reason no one but Russia supports it. If you cannot figure that one out there is no reason to discuss it here as it has no relation to Kosovo.
But even Obama said that Palestine deserved their own state so it will eventually happen.

who has ever said the west doesn't support a state for Palestinians? don't they espouse a two state solution? however bad Kosova is today, its still infinitely better to what it was when Serbia had control. i don't know, maybe some here like to see burning villages and columns upon columns of refugees.
(Nikolle, 3 April 2013 12:31)

So what about the burning and desecrating of our sacred churches and cemeteries?????

You're so one sided it's ridiculous.

(pss, 3 April 2013 17:58)

I couldn't agree more with you when it comes to any honest work or type of job. A toilet cleaner and a professor at a university are equally honorable; the dignity is inherent in the person, not the profession. Moreover, he who is, and that which is, the least in the eyes of the world is the most in the eyes of the Lord. With that understanding, the rest of your comment is jibberish, especially the part on foreign education and master race. You should know better than anyone that the Dardanians are the master race in the Balkans and the rest of Europe. You Albanians made that true and are teaching it to your children on daily basis--in schools and at home.
The sarcasm contained in your comment about Serbs being the "master" race belies your envy at your brother Serbs' honest achievements despite being under the yoke of the Ottoman Empire for 5 centuries and more recently undermined by the more powerful west for not licking their boots like the Albanians and the rest of the Serbs' neighbors.
As for pizza, you should know that most men--and many women--love and are infatuated with pizza. They watch it on TV commercials and think about it many times each day and express themselves in various forms. I think it's your problem and not anyone else's that you may not like to hear, talk, eat or read about pizza.

@ Lenard

You have to show more real proof and evidence than a bunch of stinking cans and bottles with Albanian language. Maybe somebody else do this because they are jealous of Albanian/Croatian brotherly love.
You ever think about that?

Fist it was 1 in 5 (20%) people in the UK are unemployed, when it was actually 7.8%

(Ian, UK, 3 April 2013 14:19)

You are either clueless about what is going on in your country in which case you shouldn’t comment on the article, or you know full well and deliberately mislead in order to prove another poster wrong.

To start with even if one accepts the UK unemployment figures of 7.8% as correct one has to take into consideration that those figures include only the number of claimants up to a six month period after which claimants are either moved to income support(not counted as unemployed) or "work programme" which again is not officially classed as unemployed.
Another group not seemingly accounted for in unemployed figures are the disabled and sick people(app 3 million) with working partners who were placed in the Work Related Activity Group.Government's figures also do not include the 8.5 million part-time workers.If one takes the above into consideration then UK's official unemployment figures are fake.

My claim is further validated by the fact that income tax receipts have been constantly falling for the last three years thus fuelling rising deficits.It suffices to say that despite all the austerity measures by the UK government the national debt has increased by more than £300 billion(not including bank bailouts or money printing).The UK is doing just fine.

Canadian Serb - What planet are you on? It listed the massacre at Srebernica as "genocide". Serbia was charged with breaching the geneva convention for NOT PREVENTING the genocide. Why do you think that Ratko Mladic is in the Hague as well as Milosevic and hundreds of other Serbs answering for war crimes? The report says Serbia wasn't "directly" responsible, but they were responsible. Ask any Joe Shmo on the street about Srebernica and they will tell you "isn't that where the Serbs murdered all those civilians and dumped them in holes in the ground?"

The ICJ presented its judgment on 26 February 2007, in which, among other things, it confirmed the ICTY judgment that the Srebrenica massacre WAS genocide, stating:
The Court concludes that the acts committed at Srebrenica falling within Article II (a) and (b) of the Convention were committed with the specific intent to destroy in part the group of the Muslims of Bosnia and Herzegovina as such; and accordingly that these were acts of genocide, committed by members of the VRS in and around Srebrenica from about 13 July 1995.[1]
The Court found - although not unanimously - that Serbia was neither directly responsible for the Srebrenica genocide, nor that it was complicit in it, but it did rule that Serbia had committed a breach of the Genocide Convention by failing to prevent the genocide from occurring and for not cooperating with the ICTY in punishing the perpetrators of the genocide, in particular General Ratko Mladić

Looks like the Kosova* wood jackers and testerashi made a bad economic move by not clearing the road (no pun intended) for Serbia's EU talks. No EU for Serbia=cutting and selling wood for low prices in dinars,instead of euros.

Leaders of Kosovo Serbs not accepting compromise

Leaders of Kosovo Serbs in the north are determined not to accept any compromise with Pristina.

Ordinary people in Kosovska Mitrovica were yesterday waiting for the news from Brussels but also for water that in recent days has been supplied to the households only occasionally.

They said to ‘hope that no agreement shall be reached’ and that they ‘believe that everything has been agreed already’ and that now ‘only people are to be prepared to accept the unfavorable outcome’.

‘We shall refer to the Constitution of Serbia according to which Kosovo is an integral part of Serbia’, Nebojsa Jovic, President of the Serbian National Council of Kosovska Mitrovica says. His opinion is that the policy of Serbian negotiators is shameful because ‘they are ready to sacrifice 100,000 Serbs for the sake of six millions’.

Stories in comments who needs what and why are pointless. Vucic declined the offer so it seams that Serbia doesn't need it that badly. We'll see how thing progress from here.

Well, with his argument: The west supports Kosovo because they supports an independent state for minorities. Why does they not support Palestine? Why not South Ossetia? So I really wonder why Kosovo is supported by the western powers, especially when they must realize that this Kosovo is not a multi-ethnic, democratic, European state but a corrupt entity with ethnically motivated violence and criminal election faking politicians who turned it into a haven for drug mafia.
(Comm. Parrisson, 3 April 2013 11:15)

This is what the 'international audience' must realise.

pss

You are right, there is no shame in making a living.

I was just having some fun with Mista Joe

Texas pizza lover for ever,

You are the best pizza salesman that I have never met!

I bet that you could sell a Canadian Eskimo a snow blower.

Tonight I will order the "Canadian Pizza Special" as it is


Topped with classic pepperoni, fresh mushrooms, bacon topping and mozzarella cheese. Made by a proudly Canadian company named Pizza Pizza.

- It's even better with the Cheddar Jalapeno dipping sauce.

Eh!

pss, I enjoyed your comment about the Serbian mentality and the master race card. I have responded to you and wrote about my experience in Slovenia in the late seventies, where the Slovenes shared their opinion about that card with me. Well, as it turned out B92 didn't like the view of the Slovenes and you did not get a chance to read my posting.

(sj, 4 April 2013 00:05)

Kosovo's economy is going to grow through more trade, investment and economic development.

80% unemployment & you have to ask what Kosovo produces, you're rather ignorant on Kosovo's economy. Take Turkey for example, Turkey imports a lot Kosovan goods from the textile, metal & meat processing sectors. In the UK we imported 140% more resources in 2012 than we did in 2011, in the agricultural, energy & mining sectors. Does this give you a clue as to what Kosovo produces yet?

Kosovo has the fastest growing economy in Europe. This is why 37% of Kosovo was classed as being in Poverty in 2007 & by 2010 in had dropped to 30% (7% is a lot in 3 years) and it will have decreased further as we're in 2013. This is why in 2011, Kosovo had a GDP per capita of $7,043-$6,500 & in 2007 Kosovo it was only $1,800. You're the one who claims to be an expert on economics, you should know all this. Do you really think the West would support the independence of Kosovo if they couldn't make serious money?

I've said that the realistic unemployment level in the UK will be higher than 7.8%, but it won't be anyway near the 20% you claim.

Why am I interested in Kosovo? Because I find the politics of former Yugoslavia really interesting. The politics of the Balkans as a whole is really interesting, compared to lets say the Baltics, where nothing exciting happens in Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania. That region has rather dull politics compared to the Balkans.

"What is it like baking pizzas all day long in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada". Canadian serb, ask an other Canadian serb about, who is making a living of it. I never made it to Canada until now, what s/b by the way a province of the USA. I planned to visit Quebec many times since I speak French.

Captain America,

Read the last paragraph of your post one more time!

I am confident that you will see it clearly this time...

On a garbage note Albanians garbage again is being dumped in to the http://www.croatiantimes.com/news/General_News/2013-04-02/32744/Southern_winds_bring_tonnes_of_waste_to_Dubrovnik_beaches Adriatic Sea by Albania. Also Albania wants to process German garbage for a fee and they cant even take care of their own garbage. It looks like they just going to dump it in to the Sea very pathetic.

Texas pizza lover, could you please list those Serbian achievements since your liberation from the Turks? Please concentrate on the territory south of Belgrade

No, UNSCR 1244 refers to "the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" of the 'Federal Republic of Yugoslavia', which was succeeded by a state called the 'Union State of Serbia and Montenegro' and one S&M's successor states recognises Kosovo.
(Ian, UK, 3 April 2013 20:19)

So what if one of S&M's successor states recognises Kosovo? The other does not. What are lousy argument New Kosova Report commentator (Ian).

"All this has begun to annoy a number of existing members". Mario (what a nice Serbian name) Germany calls the shots and rightfully so. Before some of them "get annoyed" they better bring their house in order starting with Italy. It is a total mess. Elections two months ago and still no sign of a government. What is worse is that the coming financial crisis in Italy is just around the corner. Oh mama mia that will be a real mondo cane.

Texas Pizza Lover,
Did you even read my comment before you wrote.
No where in there is there any indication I do not like to hear, talk or eat pizza, my comment was on I did not understand why Serbs refer to Albanians as pizza makers as if it were a job they should be ashamed of.

As far as your comment about my jealousy of my Serb brethern. first I was not alive during the Ottoman Empire so don't really know much of your accomplishments. As I said my exposure to the balkans came in 2006 and the ethnic hatred is something I do not understand. I am a mongrel from the US so I cannot afford to hate people because of their genetics, because I may have some.
My thing is as far as I can tell there is no difference between an ordinary Serb from an ordinary Albanian and the feelings of superiority you all seem to possess is not warranted.

The 8th round of talks failed because Pristina will not compromise. UNSCR 1244 specifically refers to "the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" of Serbia. Negotiations that are mindful of UNSCR 1244 should really include discussions on Kosovo status and its proper re-integration into Serbia.
(Nikola, 3 April 2013 19:14)

Kosovo's declaration of independence is in accorndance with UNSCR 1244 and hence a status mindful of USNCR 1244 has already been achieved. Vuk heroic efforts 3 years ago to have that clarified really paid off. But if you want to continue beating a dead horse, please feel free to do so...

Kosovo's declaration of independence is in accorndance with UNSCR 1244 and hence a status mindful of USNCR 1244 has already been achieved. Vuk heroic efforts 3 years ago to have that clarified really paid off. But if you want to continue beating a dead horse, please feel free to do so...
(icj1, 5 April 2013 04:51)

Although Pristina's UDI according to the ICJ did not violate international law, the ICJ did not establish Kosovo's legitimate right to exist as an independent state. Persons interpret far too much into the ICJ ruling. In fact, the ruling sets a precedent in such a way that the possible bilateral declaration of both Serbia and its northern Kosovo provinces that states that the provinces are hereby and forever part of Serbia is now quite acceptable.

FR Yugoslavia's sovereignty and territorial integrity was only guaranteed by UNSCR 1244 while Kosovo's future was to be established, it was by no means a permanent guarantee. Also UNSCR 1244 talks about FR Yugoslavia's sovereignty and territorial integrity in regards to the Helsinki Accords which itself isn't a legally binding act and there are several articles in the Helsinki Accords which can be used to legally justify Kosovo's independence.
(Ian, UK, 3 April 2013 20:19)

First, UNSCR 1244 has no expiration date. Those who think otherwise only need to read the document. Second, UNSCR 1244 is still the rule of law because Kosovo's future status is not established. It is as valid today as it was in 1999.

(Ian, UK, 3 April 2013 14:19)

“Unemployment in Kosovo stood at 40% in April 2012…. as Kosovo's economy continues to grow”

How is it going to grow? Are you bereft of all intelligence to believe this crap? What does Kosovo produce? Kosovo employment stems from government which is funded by the EU. If Kosovo is such an economic miracle why do your youth leave and pretend to be serbs looking for work in Serbia proper???

Yes it only 7.8% in the UK and you keep on thinking like that.
Despite having been involved in producing stats like this, I’m always fascinated at the power of the media and the gullibility of individuals. It never ceases to amaze me.

Much like the US level of unemployment where it’s in single digits.

Now Ian why is an Anglo Celt so interested in Kosovo? Or is it Envher rather than Ian?

@ Lenard

You have to show more real proof and evidence than a bunch of stinking cans and bottles with Albanian language. Maybe somebody else do this because they are jealous of Albanian/Croatian brotherly love.
You ever think about that?
(Garcone bre, more propaganda please!, 3 April 2013 21:31) What was I thinking it could of been those dastardly Serbs. They went picking through good Albanian garbage then threw it in to the Sea so it ends up in Croatia how low can they stoop. Just to ruin the good relations between us, Garcone is on to you Serbs stop impersonating good Albanian garbage.

(Garcone bre, more propaganda please!, 3 April 2013 21:31)

it's not a propaganda mate. It has happened several times. Instead of blaming some great consipiracy you should perhaps blame that charlatan that we have as PM in Tiarana, and while you are there the entire poltiical elite in Tirana as they are the most irresponsable and egocentric idiots you can find.

The issue of environmental protection will come out (if not from Lenard and for that matter the justified Croatian and Monetegrin concrens) then it will come out from the EU as soone as the negotiations will start. In all reviews and comments of foreing tourists the environment is a big big minus for Albania. Instead of tackling the problem the idiot pasan acting PM in Tirana minimizes or completely ignores the problem for years now. In 23 years managed to build only one small dumpfield for Tiarana. It is time we demand more responsability from our leaders instead of blaming others.

So, no agreement in sight. Doesn't matter. New elections, why not?
Serbia should be firm on this negotiation.

First, UNSCR 1244 has no expiration date. Those who think otherwise only need to read the document. Second, UNSCR 1244 is still the rule of law
(Nikola, 6 April 2013 04:03)

First, I fully agree with you that UNSCR 1244 has no expiration date and most likely will never expire thus keeping the Serb army out of Kosovo forever. Second, I also agree with you that UNSCR 1244 is still the rule of law in Kosovo and therefore UNMIK regulations which mandate the collection of customs duties at Kosovo's boundaries with Serbia for goods destinated to Kosovo are the law that must be obeyed by Albanians and Serbs alike.

I hope both sides find a solution, and we can all move along! Kosova is finally free -Serbia needs to accept that. Yes we got help from NATO but you got Vojvodina with the help of Russia too.

Vučić "offered his resignation, which was rejected."

Actually Vucic said I'm not coming anymore to these meetings since Thaci shouts at me.. :(

on more serious note (although Thaci effectively showed Vucic the exit door if he does not behave), I think Kosova needs to grant slightly more autonomy to the north but of course not agree with the Serbian BS of no Army or which laws need to be applied.

The situation is very clear: Kosova's laws and future Kosova's army operational range cannot be limted.

The rest how will those laws be implemeted in north, what special ties north will have with Serbia that is all easy solutions if there is a good will.

I strongly bealive thou that the best possible solution would be a) land swap between Kosova and Serbia, b) mutual recognition, c) large autonmy to the serbian municipalities in Kosova with international guarantees and d) special links of Serbia municipalities with Serbia in helth education and social services.

Serbian municipalities are very poor, under-developed and unemployment rate is +50%.

We have our own poor people. I don't want my tax money to be spent to pay for the education, health and social aids to Serbs in Kosova that hate me. Serbia is eager to pay for them? be my guest. Stupid as they are, they will even claim it a victory.

Prishtina(slavic name) has to give up the north in my opinion.
As an Albanian (from Fier), I believe that Kosovo was part of Serbia.
The truth is that during the Ottoman occupation most of the Muslim Albanians moved there.
Don't forget that there are no Albanian medieval Churches present in Kosovo (a slavic name). Investigate History.

To "Ben": Its your type of stupid comments about Serbs which illustrates perfectly why we do not want Kosovo to be part of the EU. The majority of citizens of EU Member States do not want an "independent" Kosovo in the EU. I don't want my tax money supporting racist, bloody-minded people such as you.

The days of belgrade dictating the terms - by force of terror - are over, thank god. the rest are details...

we always said progress would happen when the internationals use carrot/stick approach, rather than their usual dumb bumbling. in a sense, europe has finally done something right in the balkans, despite all of the mistakes and unspoken truths...

if only this could be done for bosnia - the internationals are so utterly blind and short-sighted.

no more republika srpskas, built on genocide.

but there is still no mention of the missing, especially the over 1,000 albanians and some hundreds of serbs and others. the mass gravesite at raska has yet to be opened and exhumed. i feel like a broken record, but in the future i will loudly say, "i told you so." repeatedly.

the media, ALL of the media bears much responsibility. belgrade has used the lies and stories of the dick marty report (from moscow) to prevent all talk of serbia's war crimes and atrocities. the media has been stupid and kow=towing enough to follow suit. so pathetic.

talk on...

roberto pristina/frisco

By not agreeing to the Freedom of the Serbian Muncipalities,
the Kosovo Albanians will cause the Kosovo issue to be solved by War only.

The Kosovo Albanians will lose everything by demanding everything.

Arn.Sweden.

Well, rest assured that the Serbian media is preparing the next round of "Organ Harvesting" propoganda for next week! Like clockwork, they always present some crazy stories in the middle of important negotiations. Its laughable at best.

ben, 3 April 2013 00:58)

I’m very curious. What are you going to fund this Kosovo army with? The EU is no longer able to sustain anyone for too long and this has been shown by the level of unemployment reaching 12% within the Union. Germany is in deep recession so no help from there.

Where is this pot of gold coming from?

On the issue of unemployment, Kosovo is now at 80% so the Serbian parts are no worse off than the Albanians.

@Ben,

The best solution would be a large autonomy to Pristina (which is already has) and no possible recognition of the secession of the southern province of Serbia.

The next best solution would be to stop the ethnic cleansing and scare tactics Albanians are using on a daily basis to rid the population of Kosovo of all Serb minorities.

Then Pristina should pay for the complete reconstruction of all cemeteries and churches that were destroyed.

Then Pristina should immediately cease to change the history of Kosovo with lies and propaganda from Albanian historians who cannot accept the truth.

Then NATO should clean up depleted Uranium in Kosovo and then be shown the exit door for good.

EULEX should be prosecuted for doing absolutely NOTHING and answer for the billion + euros that have been uselessly spent whilst Kosovo remains the main heroin hub for Europe.

(Anthony (in Berlin), 3 April 2013 08:46

For each Serb in Kosova there are 9 Albanians. Yet this Serbs says I hate them all I don't want to do nothing with them, no to their school, no to their health care, no to their society.

And Serbian state says: yes you are right you should ignore all of your 9 neighbours and do not have any ties with them I will pay for your needs

And I am the racists??????

have you lost your ability of critical thinking or thing are much simpler you lost your mind????

"Serbia can claim to being backed by China and Russia, two powerful nations, but who are suspect of only being selfish in their support. If China recognised Kosovo then why not Tibet. If Russia recognised Kosovo then why not Chechnya. A good reason to back Serbia. "
(T, 3 April 2013 10:00)

Well, with his argument: The west supports Kosovo because they supports an independent state for minorities. Why does they not support Palestine? Why not South Ossetia? So I really wonder why Kosovo is supported by the western powers, especially when they must realize that this Kosovo is not a multi-ethnic, democratic, European state but a corrupt entity with ethnically motivated violence and criminal election faking politicians who turned it into a haven for drug mafia.

Hahahaha. Bye-bye EU-status for Serbia. Don't cry for me Argentina....I never left you...

“... what you;re grandchildren will learn about is what you yourself learned about, nonsense about Lazar and Dushan”.
(Nikolle, 3 April 2013 12:33)

There is a lot of words here in your post but tell me what is the obvious that you talking about? It’s been 14 years since the west came into Kosovo and what has changed? The answer is ZERO.
Oh, the bad news is Serbia is not going to join the EU. Yeah it’s real bad and I’m weeping uncontrollably. It’s only the Albanians who think that money grows on trees and there is a pot of gold in Brussels. I’m sure your mother will never send you to the market to sell the family cow otherwise you’d come back with three magic beans.
But it makes me happy to see the Albanians pissed off and you certainly are at that.

(Nikolle, 3 April 2013 12:31)
“... i don't know, maybe some here like to see burning villages and columns upon columns of refugees”.

Then why do your Albanians from Kosovo constantly leave that piece of Albanian heaven for Serbia proper and pretend to be Serbs looking for work???????
Why??? To work for people that burnt their homes etc? Yeah take your hand off it please otherwise you’ll pull it right off.

Dardania why do albanians keep saying"you got Vojdovina".its been serbian for 100 years and in 70% serbian.

I hope both sides find a solution, and we can all move along! Kosova is finally free -Serbia needs to accept that. Yes we got help from NATO but you got Vojvodina with the help of Russia too.
(Dardania, 3 April 2013 00:53)
There will have to be a split. There is no other choice for Prishtina. Serbs don't want to be ruled by the current Albanian authorities. Accept that and we can move on. Do you really want to have a pissed off population living under Prishtina's rule? They will just rebel and there will be trouble again. They will leave and that's the way it will end, and they will leave with their part of Kosovo intact and under Serbian rule.

Not much a surprise. Vucic offered resignation is another clear sign of the failure of the Serbian policy. The door to the EU is now for at least one year closed and Serbia loses tremendous amounts of investments. I even doubt that next year there will be any serious considerations, since EU enlargement fatigue will just grow.

Serbia's return to the 1990s is effectively consolidated.

To all those albanians who said their was going to be a deal because of Serbia so desperately needs Eu candidate status: Hahaha! You thought serbs were that desperate. Haaaaaa!

"The situation is very clear: Kosova's laws and future Kosova's army operational range cannot be limted. "
(ben, 3 April 2013 00:58)

In case you don't know: 'Kosova' doesn't have an army, UN1244 only allowed armed forces without heavy weapons.

who has ever said the west doesn't support a state for Palestinians? don't they espouse a two state solution? however bad Kosova is today, its still infinitely better to what it was when Serbia had control. i don't know, maybe some here like to see burning villages and columns upon columns of refugees.

These talks must continue in order to explore the conditions for Serbia entering the EU. If the conditions are unfair, it is not a problem for Serbia to say no until the conditions are fair because the world, including BRICS, is much bigger economically than merely the EU. Serbia can trade with many nations, though it absolutely must clean up its own house. The province of Kosovo can't enter the UN and thus the EU without agreement pursuant to UNSC 1244 which governs this matter. Serbia is a UN nation, Kosovo is not. Serbia can wait and do business with others if Pristina won't negotiate because the West won't carry Pristina like a child forever. No UN for the province of Kosovo until Russia and China allow it.

there's no such thing as bad news for you is there sj :-) ? its actually really sweet, you refuse to see the obvious. most people would say you're deluded, i just call you a dreamer, it sounds less hard hitting. what you;re grandchildren will learn about is what you yourself learned about, nonsense about Lazar and Dushan

trizo

its a good thing you're well balanced isn't it ? i make absolutely no apology for being biased, it still doesn't invalidate my claim that Kosova now is INFINITELY better than it was when belgrade ruled roost. as an Aussie, you can come and see for yourself anytime

I'm glad that Serbia finally has someone with a spine. Of course, that he won't accept that Serbs are in the juristiction of Kosovo courts and police. Serbia lost nothing yesterday. If we accept nothing we gain nothing, if we reject nothing, we again gain nothing.

Serbia went into these talks with the full knowledge that they will fail. The EU expected the Serbs to buckle under the pressure of “do as we say or no EU”.
Kosovo is now and will remain stagnant until Belgrade changes its mind and time is certainly on the side of the Serbs. The latest economic indicators show the EU is heading for very high unemployment with Germany’s economy predicted to rise by 0.3% in 2013 which means a very sharp increase in unemployed in that country.
The Asians have factored into their five year plans a stagnant EU economy with the highest levels of unemployment since the 1930s. Meanwhile back at the ranch the US is starting little fires to take away the American population’s attention from the terrible economic problems.
The breakdown of these talks is exactly what Moscows wants.
Well done Serbia. It’s one of the best manoeuvres I’ve seen in a long time and it’s something my grandchildren will be reading in textbooks at University in the future.

Joe

What is it like baking pizzas all day long in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada?

Ben,
you had stated that
"For each Serb in Kosova there are 9 Albanians"

but in reality you probably meant to say the following

For each Albanian in Serbia there are 9 Serbians!

or how about the following

For each Northern Kosovo Albanian there are 9 Northern Kosovo Serbs

Captain America,

Read the last paragraph of your post one more time!

I am confident that you will see it clearly this time...

Leaders of Kosovo Serbs not accepting compromise

Leaders of Kosovo Serbs in the north are determined not to accept any compromise with Pristina.

Ordinary people in Kosovska Mitrovica were yesterday waiting for the news from Brussels but also for water that in recent days has been supplied to the households only occasionally.

They said to ‘hope that no agreement shall be reached’ and that they ‘believe that everything has been agreed already’ and that now ‘only people are to be prepared to accept the unfavorable outcome’.

‘We shall refer to the Constitution of Serbia according to which Kosovo is an integral part of Serbia’, Nebojsa Jovic, President of the Serbian National Council of Kosovska Mitrovica says. His opinion is that the policy of Serbian negotiators is shameful because ‘they are ready to sacrifice 100,000 Serbs for the sake of six millions’.

who has ever said the west doesn't support a state for Palestinians? don't they espouse a two state solution? however bad Kosova is today, its still infinitely better to what it was when Serbia had control. i don't know, maybe some here like to see burning villages and columns upon columns of refugees.
(Nikolle, 3 April 2013 12:31)

So what about the burning and desecrating of our sacred churches and cemeteries?????

You're so one sided it's ridiculous.

In case you don't know: 'Kosova' doesn't have an army, UN1244 only allowed armed forces without heavy weapons.
(Comm. Parrisson, 3 April 2013 10:50)

Of course Kosova doensn't have an army yet. We currently have the 3,500 strong Kosova Security Force which is currently lightly armed however come June it will be transformed into the Kosovan Army. The Kosovan Air Force will also be established, we already have pilots being trained in Turkey. JUNE 2013!

On the issue of unemployment, Kosovo is now at 80% so the Serbian parts are no worse off than the Albanians.
(sj, 3 April 2013 02:05)

Fist it was 1 in 5 (20%) people in the UK are unemployed, when it was actually 7.8%. Now it is 80% of Kosovo is unemployed, that is a funny one mate. Unemployment in Kosovo stood at 40% in April 2012 and it will have decreased further in the last financial year as Kosovo's economy continues to grow.

http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/scr/2012/cr12100.pdf

The unemployment rate in Kosovo was at 47.5% in April 2008 and 45.4% in April 2009, uemployment fell to 40% by April 2010 but grew slightly in 2011 before going back down to 40% by April 2012.

But I do not know why I'm bothering to inform you of this because you clearly have no idea what unemployment is.

Kosovo is at 80% unemployment? You must be mad if you actually believe that. But then again, you actually believe that one in five in the UK are unemployed!

The 8th round of talks failed because Pristina will not compromise. UNSCR 1244 specifically refers to "the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" of Serbia. Negotiations that are mindful of UNSCR 1244 should really include discussions on Kosovo status and its proper re-integration into Serbia. Anything short of this demonstrates an extraordinary compromise on part of the Serbian negotiating team. It is unfathomable to see how Serbia can compromise any further than it already has.

There's a way out. Pristina really doesn't care about "ruling" the Serbs in the North, but they are worried that politicians there and in Belgrade will use any powers they get to take the area out of Kosovo at some point in the future. So, let the politicians in the north and in Belgrade formally renounce any attempt at independence or joining Serbia in the future, just as the Albanians renounced joining Albania in their declaration of independence and constitution. Pristina will want guarantees, but then, the Serbs want guarantees for their churches and monasteries. There's no reason they can't come to an agreement. If Belgrade still wants to finance services under such an arrangement - please, be my guest.

Cause of this failure to negotiate, support in Serbia for EU memebership will drop. Serbia really expected for EU to put some pressure on Pristina as well.

Surprise, surprise.
Serbia doesn't seem to get it. How can you go into negotiations without a trump card and expect to get out on top.
They have nothing to bargain with while at the same time the Albanians already have recognition from many countries.
Serbia can claim to being backed by China and Russia, two powerful nations, but who are suspect of only being selfish in their support. If China recognised Kosovo then why not Tibet. If Russia recognised Kosovo then why not Chechnya. A good reason to back Serbia.
On the other hand Kosovo needs recognition from these two superpowers in order to get a UN seat. I am sure that Serbia used this carrot but Kosovo knows it has full support of the USA and is playing for time which is much more on their side than on the side of Serbia, who is vying for EU membership.
However having said all of this maybe after all it is not such a bad thing for Serbia. Serbia may have lost Kosovo but will have saved face and saving face has much respect from Russia and especially China.
Serbia has friends, it does not stand alone but knowing that the situation with Kosovo has reached a stalemate they should now forget the EU and focus instead on the economy and on forging relationships with those it can rely on to help it progress.

Well, with his argument: The west supports Kosovo because they supports an independent state for minorities. Why does they not support Palestine? Why not South Ossetia? So I really wonder why Kosovo is supported by the western powers, especially when they must realize that this Kosovo is not a multi-ethnic, democratic, European state but a corrupt entity with ethnically motivated violence and criminal election faking politicians who turned it into a haven for drug mafia.
(Comm. Parrisson, 3 April 2013 11:15)

This is what the 'international audience' must realise.

oh no sj, i am aware that you think Serbia has become a haven for migrant workers :-). not only Albanians are going to Serbia sj, we have the French, the Spanish, the Cypriots, Italians, Greeks, Germans, we're all going to that workers paradise called Serbia :-), where the monthly wage is around 360 EURO's a month, like in Kosova :-) but hey, what is money compared to feeling the love of the heavenly people. p.s. there's a section on B92 called Economic Crisis in Serbia, you should click on it sometimes. face it looking for a job in Serbia is the same as looking for water in the sun...not gonna find it

What is it like baking pizzas all day long in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada?
(Another Canadian Serb, 3 April 2013 14:26)

Dont forget Srebernica kiddo....the world definitely has not. Largest act of genocide in Europe since WWII.

Well done Serbia. It’s one of the best manoeuvres I’ve seen in a long time,
(sj, 3 April 2013 11:34)
That is what you say when the contestent on Jeopardy wagers everything and he has the winning question, unfortunately this time Serbia overplayed their confidence, lost everything and went home empty handed. Good luck paying back those Chinese loans. I am sure Russia will be at your Going out of business sale to pick up some cheap assets.
Maybe Jeremic can secure an aid package for you before he leaves office.

Fist it was 1 in 5 (20%) people in the UK are unemployed, when it was actually 7.8%

(Ian, UK, 3 April 2013 14:19)

You are either clueless about what is going on in your country in which case you shouldn’t comment on the article, or you know full well and deliberately mislead in order to prove another poster wrong.

To start with even if one accepts the UK unemployment figures of 7.8% as correct one has to take into consideration that those figures include only the number of claimants up to a six month period after which claimants are either moved to income support(not counted as unemployed) or "work programme" which again is not officially classed as unemployed.
Another group not seemingly accounted for in unemployed figures are the disabled and sick people(app 3 million) with working partners who were placed in the Work Related Activity Group.Government's figures also do not include the 8.5 million part-time workers.If one takes the above into consideration then UK's official unemployment figures are fake.

My claim is further validated by the fact that income tax receipts have been constantly falling for the last three years thus fuelling rising deficits.It suffices to say that despite all the austerity measures by the UK government the national debt has increased by more than £300 billion(not including bank bailouts or money printing).The UK is doing just fine.

Hey Captain America,

Serbia was found not guilty of Bosnian Genocide!

I don't know where you gather your infromation from,but I would recommend the following link for your viewing pleasure.

http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=serbian%20genocide%20suit%20in%20bosnia&source=web&cd=2&cad=rja&ved=0CDoQFjAB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FBosnian_Genocide_Case&ei=RThcUf-wEcqprQGsxYDACQ&usg=AFQjCNFU5vE-MBsXdJC20NT_olY6Uql_PQ

"The eighth round of the Kosovo dialogue ended in Brussels late on Tuesday with the two sides unable to reach an agreement."

Of course; why on Earth would Kosovo help Serbia to become an EU member ?!

Canadian Serb - What planet are you on? It listed the massacre at Srebernica as "genocide". Serbia was charged with breaching the geneva convention for NOT PREVENTING the genocide. Why do you think that Ratko Mladic is in the Hague as well as Milosevic and hundreds of other Serbs answering for war crimes? The report says Serbia wasn't "directly" responsible, but they were responsible. Ask any Joe Shmo on the street about Srebernica and they will tell you "isn't that where the Serbs murdered all those civilians and dumped them in holes in the ground?"

The ICJ presented its judgment on 26 February 2007, in which, among other things, it confirmed the ICTY judgment that the Srebrenica massacre WAS genocide, stating:
The Court concludes that the acts committed at Srebrenica falling within Article II (a) and (b) of the Convention were committed with the specific intent to destroy in part the group of the Muslims of Bosnia and Herzegovina as such; and accordingly that these were acts of genocide, committed by members of the VRS in and around Srebrenica from about 13 July 1995.[1]
The Court found - although not unanimously - that Serbia was neither directly responsible for the Srebrenica genocide, nor that it was complicit in it, but it did rule that Serbia had committed a breach of the Genocide Convention by failing to prevent the genocide from occurring and for not cooperating with the ICTY in punishing the perpetrators of the genocide, in particular General Ratko Mladić

Serbia is the successor state to Yugoslavia and Serbia and Montenegro. Montenegro doesn't count anymore because Serbia is the successor state. Kosovo was always part of Serbia not a part of Yugoslavia or Serbia and Montenegro and Kosovo!!! Provinces of Serbia follow Serbia anyway not Montenegro.

@ Lenard

You have to show more real proof and evidence than a bunch of stinking cans and bottles with Albanian language. Maybe somebody else do this because they are jealous of Albanian/Croatian brotherly love.
You ever think about that?
(Garcone bre, more propaganda please!, 3 April 2013 21:31) What was I thinking it could of been those dastardly Serbs. They went picking through good Albanian garbage then threw it in to the Sea so it ends up in Croatia how low can they stoop. Just to ruin the good relations between us, Garcone is on to you Serbs stop impersonating good Albanian garbage.

sj, 3 April 2013 11:34)
But probably not in the universities in Belgrade, however, I am sure a diploma will be cheap there. Hope your children learn the lesson that is to come out of this. Not to follow the advice of their father or choose to live in isolation and poverty.

Some EU Member States have started to express their disapproval of the treatment of EU candidate Serbia by Germany during the most recent negotiations between Serbian negotiators and ethnic Albanians in Kosovo.
All this has begun to annoy a number of existing members of the European Union, some of who see Germany “moving the goalposts” on Serbia every step closer it comes to the EU. “No other country has had to jump through as many hoops as Serbia during the accession process” said one parliamentarian under a condition of anonymity. Some countries have even considered revoking their recognition of Kosovo until a formal agreement between the two sides are met. Strong public pressure in countries such as the Czech Republic and Poland, both Slavic nations, that have recently experienced mass demonstrations in support of Serbia’s territorial integrity. Italian carmaker Fiat alone has invested over 940 million Euros in Serbia, and sees any delay in Serbia’s accession to the EU as detrimental to their business interests. There are currently 5 member states of the European Union that have not recognized Kosovo, but the likelihood of this number rising as a response to additional conditions being imposed on Serbia becomes greater with every delay.

On a garbage note Albanians garbage again is being dumped in to the http://www.croatiantimes.com/news/General_News/2013-04-02/32744/Southern_winds_bring_tonnes_of_waste_to_Dubrovnik_beaches Adriatic Sea by Albania. Also Albania wants to process German garbage for a fee and they cant even take care of their own garbage. It looks like they just going to dump it in to the Sea very pathetic.

Texas pizza lover for ever,

You are the best pizza salesman that I have never met!

I bet that you could sell a Canadian Eskimo a snow blower.

Tonight I will order the "Canadian Pizza Special" as it is


Topped with classic pepperoni, fresh mushrooms, bacon topping and mozzarella cheese. Made by a proudly Canadian company named Pizza Pizza.

- It's even better with the Cheddar Jalapeno dipping sauce.

Eh!

Stories in comments who needs what and why are pointless. Vucic declined the offer so it seams that Serbia doesn't need it that badly. We'll see how thing progress from here.

Hahahaha. Bye-bye EU-status for Serbia. Don't cry for me Argentina....I never left you...
(Joe, 3 April 2013 13:19)
The scene reminds me of the movie Great Expectations, where Ms Haversham is sitting in her decades old wedding dress overlooking the dried up wedding cake with all the decorations covered in cobwebs and rats. Sitting there in disbelief that her dream was gone forever. Serbia's party is gone, their foolish belief that the world would one day say sure you murdered, raped, tortured and tried to cleanse an entire group of people from their homes, but what the hell here are the keys, you can have it back.
The old geezers will sit in the bars cheering their past, the children outside realizing a dismal future.

pss

You are right, there is no shame in making a living.

I was just having some fun with Mista Joe

The 8th round of talks failed because Pristina will not compromise. UNSCR 1244 specifically refers to "the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" of Serbia. Negotiations that are mindful of UNSCR 1244 should really include discussions on Kosovo status and its proper re-integration into Serbia. Anything short of this demonstrates an extraordinary compromise on part of the Serbian negotiating team. It is unfathomable to see how Serbia can compromise any further than it already has.
(Nikola, 3 April 2013 19:14)

The 8th round failed as there wasn't a solution acceptable to both parties. When you say that "Pristina will not compromise", do you mean that Pristina didn't accept what Belgrade offered? Well Belgrade didn't accept what Pristina offered either.

No, UNSCR 1244 refers to "the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" of the 'Federal Republic of Yugoslavia', which was succeeded by a state called the 'Union State of Serbia and Montenegro' and one S&M's successor states recognises Kosovo.

FR Yugoslavia's sovereignty and territorial integrity was only guaranteed by UNSCR 1244 while Kosovo's future was to be established, it was by no means a permanent guarantee. Also UNSCR 1244 talks about FR Yugoslavia's sovereignty and territorial integrity in regards to the Helsinki Accords which itself isn't a legally binding act and there are several articles in the Helsinki Accords which can be used to legally justify Kosovo's independence.

(Ian, UK, 3 April 2013 14:19)

“Unemployment in Kosovo stood at 40% in April 2012…. as Kosovo's economy continues to grow”

How is it going to grow? Are you bereft of all intelligence to believe this crap? What does Kosovo produce? Kosovo employment stems from government which is funded by the EU. If Kosovo is such an economic miracle why do your youth leave and pretend to be serbs looking for work in Serbia proper???

Yes it only 7.8% in the UK and you keep on thinking like that.
Despite having been involved in producing stats like this, I’m always fascinated at the power of the media and the gullibility of individuals. It never ceases to amaze me.

Much like the US level of unemployment where it’s in single digits.

Now Ian why is an Anglo Celt so interested in Kosovo? Or is it Envher rather than Ian?

No, UNSCR 1244 refers to "the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" of the 'Federal Republic of Yugoslavia', which was succeeded by a state called the 'Union State of Serbia and Montenegro' and one S&M's successor states recognises Kosovo.
(Ian, UK, 3 April 2013 20:19)

So what if one of S&M's successor states recognises Kosovo? The other does not. What are lousy argument New Kosova Report commentator (Ian).

Someone has to throw the towel. Four more rounds of kiddies boxing match lol

Comm. Parrisson, 3 April 2013 11:15) you do see support for Palestine in the west, the US is the big holdout and that is due to its commitments to Israel. I think South Ossetia is an obvious answer, the same reason no one but Russia supports it. If you cannot figure that one out there is no reason to discuss it here as it has no relation to Kosovo.
But even Obama said that Palestine deserved their own state so it will eventually happen.

So what about the burning and desecrating of our sacred churches and cemeteries?????

-- As a Serb burned Catholic churches and mosques don't count??????

Now to put it in perspective. If your house has been burned, if you cousins have been killed, if you have been deported and walked barefoot and hungry through snowy mountains in the middle of the winter how does that even compare with a church? You go to church once a week once week, once a yera for most people. You LIVE in your house. You LOVE your cousins and you DIE walking in the woods in the winter. You complain about an empty building raised to glorify a figment of your imagination, a fictitious supernatural building? Be real next time. You cannot compare a ruined life with a ruined building. If you care about ruined buildings and not ruined lives, don't forget to mention the destroyed catholic churches and mosques done by the hands of the church.

"What is it like baking pizzas all day long in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada". Canadian serb, ask an other Canadian serb about, who is making a living of it. I never made it to Canada until now, what s/b by the way a province of the USA. I planned to visit Quebec many times since I speak French.

(Leonidas, 3 April 2013 16:13)

So what if all them groups aren't included as "unemployed"? Them figuers don't include the retired, babies, school children and those in full time education either. The figure 7.8% is in relation to the available labour force, which is similar definition to most Western and European countries. The definition of "unemployed" is still the same as before the economic crisis of 2008. Also people on work programmes are still in education and are therefore not unemployed, also part time/ half time workers are not unemployed either. I've admitted that real unemployment in the UK is above the offical 7.8%, but it is certainly a lot lot lot lower than 20%.

(pss, 3 April 2013 17:58)

I couldn't agree more with you when it comes to any honest work or type of job. A toilet cleaner and a professor at a university are equally honorable; the dignity is inherent in the person, not the profession. Moreover, he who is, and that which is, the least in the eyes of the world is the most in the eyes of the Lord. With that understanding, the rest of your comment is jibberish, especially the part on foreign education and master race. You should know better than anyone that the Dardanians are the master race in the Balkans and the rest of Europe. You Albanians made that true and are teaching it to your children on daily basis--in schools and at home.
The sarcasm contained in your comment about Serbs being the "master" race belies your envy at your brother Serbs' honest achievements despite being under the yoke of the Ottoman Empire for 5 centuries and more recently undermined by the more powerful west for not licking their boots like the Albanians and the rest of the Serbs' neighbors.
As for pizza, you should know that most men--and many women--love and are infatuated with pizza. They watch it on TV commercials and think about it many times each day and express themselves in various forms. I think it's your problem and not anyone else's that you may not like to hear, talk, eat or read about pizza.

(Garcone bre, more propaganda please!, 3 April 2013 21:31)

it's not a propaganda mate. It has happened several times. Instead of blaming some great consipiracy you should perhaps blame that charlatan that we have as PM in Tiarana, and while you are there the entire poltiical elite in Tirana as they are the most irresponsable and egocentric idiots you can find.

The issue of environmental protection will come out (if not from Lenard and for that matter the justified Croatian and Monetegrin concrens) then it will come out from the EU as soone as the negotiations will start. In all reviews and comments of foreing tourists the environment is a big big minus for Albania. Instead of tackling the problem the idiot pasan acting PM in Tirana minimizes or completely ignores the problem for years now. In 23 years managed to build only one small dumpfield for Tiarana. It is time we demand more responsability from our leaders instead of blaming others.

Kosovo is at 80% unemployment? You must be mad if you actually believe that. But then again, you actually believe that one in five in the UK are unemployed!
(Ian, UK, 3 April 2013 14:19)
Why do you bother? sj is harmless, even the Serbs on here knows that 99.9997% of what he writes is bs.

Still today the diehards write trying to convince mainly themselves that they are a better people and in a better place than Albanians. Look to yourself and realize your past and then only then will you have a future.

Looks like the Kosova* wood jackers and testerashi made a bad economic move by not clearing the road (no pun intended) for Serbia's EU talks. No EU for Serbia=cutting and selling wood for low prices in dinars,instead of euros.

What is it like baking pizzas all day long in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada?
(Another Canadian Serb, 3 April 2013 14:26)
One thing I have never been able to understand about the Serb mentality. Why do you equate baking pizzas as a bad thing. It is an honest profession. One minute you call all Albanians heroin dealers and then the next you try to paint people who work hardfor their money in an honest profession as some type of low life. I have never understood how Serbs developed their superiority complex as it is baseless. Many on here have been lucky to travel to countries that have afforded them educations and good jobs which they would never have gotten in the homeland of Serbia but they still hold on to the master race card.

My father told me that there is no shame to a man earning a living and supporting a family with an honest job. I have carried that philosophy all my life. Every waiter, cleaner, construction worker, road crew, farmer can hold their head high many times rightfully so more than CEO's definitely politicians, or those in the banking industry.

It was 2006 and I was 50 years old before ever being exposed to the rot in the balkans. It is an ugly sight. And the whole time there I never was able to tell the difference between the ordinary Serb and Albanian other than who they hated.

pss, I enjoyed your comment about the Serbian mentality and the master race card. I have responded to you and wrote about my experience in Slovenia in the late seventies, where the Slovenes shared their opinion about that card with me. Well, as it turned out B92 didn't like the view of the Slovenes and you did not get a chance to read my posting.

"All this has begun to annoy a number of existing members". Mario (what a nice Serbian name) Germany calls the shots and rightfully so. Before some of them "get annoyed" they better bring their house in order starting with Italy. It is a total mess. Elections two months ago and still no sign of a government. What is worse is that the coming financial crisis in Italy is just around the corner. Oh mama mia that will be a real mondo cane.

Northern Kosovo can be dealt with and Kosovo has the necessary mechanisms at is't disposal. And this is clear to all of us.

Kosovos Territorial Integrity is respected by all Countries that have recognized Kosovo. It is same countries that have asked Kosovo not to intervene in the North hopping an agreement will be reached eventually, it it is not possible. No Serb politician as brave or strong enough to do the right thing at the moment.

Since no agreement reached than it is about time International Community agrees Kosovo uses it's state mechanisms it has to its disposal to bring law and order in it's entire territory. This silently would in fact be welcomed by Serbia as by than Serbian people and politicians will like in the case of KNIN say, well there is nothing one can do, lets move on with our lives.

Texas pizza lover, could you please list those Serbian achievements since your liberation from the Turks? Please concentrate on the territory south of Belgrade

Texas Pizza Lover,
Did you even read my comment before you wrote.
No where in there is there any indication I do not like to hear, talk or eat pizza, my comment was on I did not understand why Serbs refer to Albanians as pizza makers as if it were a job they should be ashamed of.

As far as your comment about my jealousy of my Serb brethern. first I was not alive during the Ottoman Empire so don't really know much of your accomplishments. As I said my exposure to the balkans came in 2006 and the ethnic hatred is something I do not understand. I am a mongrel from the US so I cannot afford to hate people because of their genetics, because I may have some.
My thing is as far as I can tell there is no difference between an ordinary Serb from an ordinary Albanian and the feelings of superiority you all seem to possess is not warranted.

(sj, 4 April 2013 00:05)

Kosovo's economy is going to grow through more trade, investment and economic development.

80% unemployment & you have to ask what Kosovo produces, you're rather ignorant on Kosovo's economy. Take Turkey for example, Turkey imports a lot Kosovan goods from the textile, metal & meat processing sectors. In the UK we imported 140% more resources in 2012 than we did in 2011, in the agricultural, energy & mining sectors. Does this give you a clue as to what Kosovo produces yet?

Kosovo has the fastest growing economy in Europe. This is why 37% of Kosovo was classed as being in Poverty in 2007 & by 2010 in had dropped to 30% (7% is a lot in 3 years) and it will have decreased further as we're in 2013. This is why in 2011, Kosovo had a GDP per capita of $7,043-$6,500 & in 2007 Kosovo it was only $1,800. You're the one who claims to be an expert on economics, you should know all this. Do you really think the West would support the independence of Kosovo if they couldn't make serious money?

I've said that the realistic unemployment level in the UK will be higher than 7.8%, but it won't be anyway near the 20% you claim.

Why am I interested in Kosovo? Because I find the politics of former Yugoslavia really interesting. The politics of the Balkans as a whole is really interesting, compared to lets say the Baltics, where nothing exciting happens in Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania. That region has rather dull politics compared to the Balkans.

So, no agreement in sight. Doesn't matter. New elections, why not?
Serbia should be firm on this negotiation.

@ Lenard

You have to show more real proof and evidence than a bunch of stinking cans and bottles with Albanian language. Maybe somebody else do this because they are jealous of Albanian/Croatian brotherly love.
You ever think about that?

The 8th round of talks failed because Pristina will not compromise. UNSCR 1244 specifically refers to "the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity" of Serbia. Negotiations that are mindful of UNSCR 1244 should really include discussions on Kosovo status and its proper re-integration into Serbia.
(Nikola, 3 April 2013 19:14)

Kosovo's declaration of independence is in accorndance with UNSCR 1244 and hence a status mindful of USNCR 1244 has already been achieved. Vuk heroic efforts 3 years ago to have that clarified really paid off. But if you want to continue beating a dead horse, please feel free to do so...

Kosovo's declaration of independence is in accorndance with UNSCR 1244 and hence a status mindful of USNCR 1244 has already been achieved. Vuk heroic efforts 3 years ago to have that clarified really paid off. But if you want to continue beating a dead horse, please feel free to do so...
(icj1, 5 April 2013 04:51)

Although Pristina's UDI according to the ICJ did not violate international law, the ICJ did not establish Kosovo's legitimate right to exist as an independent state. Persons interpret far too much into the ICJ ruling. In fact, the ruling sets a precedent in such a way that the possible bilateral declaration of both Serbia and its northern Kosovo provinces that states that the provinces are hereby and forever part of Serbia is now quite acceptable.

FR Yugoslavia's sovereignty and territorial integrity was only guaranteed by UNSCR 1244 while Kosovo's future was to be established, it was by no means a permanent guarantee. Also UNSCR 1244 talks about FR Yugoslavia's sovereignty and territorial integrity in regards to the Helsinki Accords which itself isn't a legally binding act and there are several articles in the Helsinki Accords which can be used to legally justify Kosovo's independence.
(Ian, UK, 3 April 2013 20:19)

First, UNSCR 1244 has no expiration date. Those who think otherwise only need to read the document. Second, UNSCR 1244 is still the rule of law because Kosovo's future status is not established. It is as valid today as it was in 1999.

First, UNSCR 1244 has no expiration date. Those who think otherwise only need to read the document. Second, UNSCR 1244 is still the rule of law
(Nikola, 6 April 2013 04:03)

First, I fully agree with you that UNSCR 1244 has no expiration date and most likely will never expire thus keeping the Serb army out of Kosovo forever. Second, I also agree with you that UNSCR 1244 is still the rule of law in Kosovo and therefore UNMIK regulations which mandate the collection of customs duties at Kosovo's boundaries with Serbia for goods destinated to Kosovo are the law that must be obeyed by Albanians and Serbs alike.