Jovan Kovacic: Failure to implement Kosovo-Serbia Agreements Will Cause Effects

“East West Bridge” Director Jovan Kovacic, during an interview for “Balkan Update” said that official Pristina and Belgrade will have to press ahead with implementation of the agreement, which they reached last month in Ohrid of Northern Macedonia.

He says its implementation would iron out past hostilities and open a new perspective for the region.

And it's always extraordinary, the way you're in the moment of reaching a historic agreement which, in fact, when applied, will be needed and will iron out some of the enmity and problems that have existed in that region and you would have some advantages of course”, he underlined.

He stressed that there are many individuals who do not want peace and reconciliation because they cannot achieve their strategic goals differently.

There will be several individuals who do not want peace and reconciliation because they cannot achieve their goals, as they benefit when the situation is tense. The two leaders are responsible enough to fulfill what they agreed in Ohrid. I am optimistic about the implementation of this issue, and various statements that come on the way”, he said.

Failure to base commitments says Kovacic will be accompanied by deep consequences for Kosovo and Serbia, and this will be on two sides -- on politics and the economy.

“Sanctions have become clear from the international community, but also from Washington, there will be political sanctions, but also serious financial consequences, and that is for neither Kurti nor Vuci to be able to afford. They will insist, and they will even be harsher than before, for my agreement to be implemented. You don't think Kurti and Vucic, I don't think they're going to implement agreements, because there's going to be big consequences of”, he added.

He further added that only Russia would benefit from failing to implement Kosovo-Serbia agreements.

Russia alone would benefit from failure to comply. We've seen enough tragedy, bloodshed and destruction. Nations and people in this region have so much to offer and the time has come to show something in the right direction”, he said.

As for the situation in northern Mitrovica for holding elections, Kovacic said Kosovo should be careful with its actions, as a wrong approach could cause huge damage.

I have to agree with Mr. Haradinaj. Wrong movements can cause much damage. It is important to find a solution that will make everyone happy. Politicians have been tools in these negotiations and will be responsible for their actions. My recommendations to hear the different signals and take the right path and access, and that's what we should suggest to leaders”, he said.