Limits should not be changed, but reality must be accepted

In an interview for “-Albanian Daily News”, the head of the Albanian state says that any discussion of accession and reality is welcome, but not to change it, because it is thus provoked by the unproductive rhetorical, populist emotions, transmits tch.

Mr. President, there has recently been a major debate on changing borders between Serbia and Kosovo, the debate in which local and foreign politicians and many analysts are involved. What is your position regarding this debate?

Ilir Meta: Serbia-Kosovo dialogue is built not to change reality, but to lead its accession process on behalf of peace and stability. It is a prerequisite for the European integration of the two countries. Any discussion and debate that helps in the sense and acceptance of this reality is welcome. Any deviation from this reality is of no benefit but of emotion and populist rhetoric. The Balkans have undergone profound transformations in the last two decades in which the US and the EU are seriously invested. One of the biggest and most successful investments has been the Independence of Kosovo, and the ongoing establishment of dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia in behalf of normalising relations and stability, peace and long-term security in the region. The historical past of the Balkans is unfortunately linked to changes in borders, ethnic cleansing and the violent displacement of populations that have been associated with major problems, hostility, wars and hatred. The agreement, thought to be reached today between the parties, is important to release positive energy, help the spirit of coexistence and harmony, and heal the hatred sown by past and history.

You think history is repeating, this process seems to be good timing from both sides?

Ilir Meta: It is vital that not only never again be restored to images of deportation or movement by domestic violence, whether Serbian or Albanian, but not one single family should think about moving away because of the uncertainty that brings the dispute of changing borders.

What is Albania's role in this important issue?

Ilir Meta: Albania has always been and remains a strong supporter of the dialogue process between Kosovo and Serbia, mediated by the EU and supported by the US, and the outcome of this dialogue should make the region more peaceful and our citizens safer for their future. For Albania it is of particular importance to respect basic principles sanctioned in the Helsinki and Paris Charter of O The EU for security in Europe, especially the principle of non-reforming borders.

What does Serbia gain from this agreement?

Ilir Meta: The European Union with the new enlargement strategy for the Western Balkans has offered clear integration prospects to the countries of this region. I believe that through an agreement with Kosovo Serbia wins its European future, as good neighbourly relations are known to be necessary and inevitable conditions for any country in the region, including Serbia. Let us not forget that in the EU's entry document in January 2014, when negotiations opened with Serbia stressed that this process should ensure that both sides move on their European path, without the possibility of blocking each other in this effort, and this should gradually lead to a comprehensive normalisation of relations between Kosovo and Serbia. The EU and the US are guaranteed that the outcome of this agreement provides Serbia with its path towards EU integration. Top Serbian authorities have often declared that their country's EU membership is very important and are seriously engaged in this process. I add that this benefit is for the better and benefit not only of Serbia, but also of Serbs living in Kosovo, it is in the interest of all countries in the region.

Kosovo President Thaci has stated several times that changing borders will benefit Kosovo's future?

Ilir Meta: First I would congratulate Kosovo to have a union of forces and energy that compromise and support the best interest of all Kosovo citizens. I have noticed that President Thaci reiterated the importance of Kosovo's territorial integrity, the importance of its multiethnicity and the importance of the stability of the region. These are very important principles that guarantee an irreversible and sustainable process.

How do you see Kosovo's future?

Ilir Meta: Kosovo's sovereignty and territorial integrity is already known and recognised by a convincing majority of UN member states. Kosovo is today a member of many international and regional organisations. It has been introduced in an association process of the European Union, and its citizens are awaiting news of the free movement of its citizens in the countries of the European Union. Albania is proud to have contributed to these important achievements and remains committed to its commitment to Kosovo's full membership in the UN and the EU.

Any comment on Minister Bushati's interview?

Ilir Meta: I support the position of the government of Albania in supporting the efforts of the Kosovo government to preserve stability, territorial integrity, multiethnic character of the state of Kosovo, and important international guarantees -- the Ahtisaari Plan and the International Court of Justice's decision, which legitimised compatible with Kosovo's International Independence Law.

The European Union has so far been less clear on the border issue. Your opinion, Mr. President?

Ilir Meta: The model and principles of coexistence, harmony and peace among the countries of the European Union are the model of melting and eliminating state borders, especially ethnic ones. So I see the process of integrating our region into the EU: towards making the borders insignificant and not towards imposing new borders. Any attempt to impose models of changing borders would not only affect the stability of the region but also endanger the EU's spirit and principles for which it has been invested from its establishment to this day.

On September 30th, government Zaev will organise the referendum on the deal reached with Greece for its future name, the result of which is still a dilemma. How important is this outcome to Albania and the region?

Ilir Meta: Integration of the region into the EU and NATO is an important and vital process for its future. Macedonia is at a very important, favourable and optimistic moment, following a long period of stagnation in relations with Greece, with the European Union and with NATO. Without any qualms we have supported and promoted direct dialogue between Athens and Skopje with full conviction that this is the best way to move forward and find the right solution to Macedonia's protracted integration process. The agreement reached with Greece for the name opens a new perspective, is a positive step of Macedonia towards its membership in NATO, EU integration and directly affects the peace, security and stability of our region. Albania's political factor in Macedonia has an irreplaceable role both in the process of internal changes and political and social cohesion, as well as in Macedonia's Euro-Atlantic process. He again has the opportunity to reconfirm his firm stand for Macedonia's membership in NATO and the EU by engaging seriously and with all energy for the success of this referendum. The success of this referendum is a victory of integration, European and Euro-Atlantic forces and spirit against archaic, anti-European and anti-European trends - NATO not only in Macedonia but in our entire region. So I believe, and at the same time, I call on all Macedonian Albanians to participate in the referendum on September 30th and vote in favour of the agreement, to open a new chapter not only in behalf of Macedonia's integration but also in the best interests of their future in this country.