Krasniqi: Russia's EC departure, crucial moment for Kosovo

Democratic Party of Kosovo Chairman Memli Krasniqi after Russia's departure from the Council of Europe yesterday, said it represents a real opportunity for Kosovo.

Through a Facebook post, Krasniqi has indicated that the main obstacles Kosovo has had for years in its bid for membership in this very important organisation have been eliminated with Russia's departure.

This new possibility, this crucial moment, is not being properly exploited by Kosovo state institutions. This case, which has been presented to Kosovo, should not go beyond capitalising. State institutions must start immediately and without wasting time in a lobby and co-ordination campaign with our strategic Western allies to plan and determine steps towards application and membership of the Council of Europe.”, he writes.

Leader of The PDK has indicated that Kosovo's membership in the EC would be a step further towards empowering citizenship, but also fundamental to strengthening democracy, rule of law and co-operation in the European family and beyond.

The “approach to the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, where the principles of justice of the European Bill of Human Rights -- which is also recorded within the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo -- would be of great benefit to our citizens and state. Therefore, this newly created situation, which increases Kosovo's chances for accession to the Council of Europe, should be transformed into an agenda of state priorities and treated urgently by following all necessary steps that enable Kosovo's membership in this international organisation. The government must not miss this case. The Democratic Party of Kosovo, as the leader of the opposition, is willing to contribute all its contribution to this process of great importance to our state. ”, writes Krasniqi.