Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Foreign MAY/JUNE 2012 Affairs of Republic of Kosovo. No.4. Year II. U.S. and Kosovo enjoy The Green Academic and an extraordinary Oasis Ecumenical relationship Wild hogs and lakes of Blinaja gathering to mark Five Questions for US make an oasis in the middle of Ambasador Christopher Dell Kosova. St Constantine NewDiplomatKosovo’s

column European Union’s delays nEWS may impede progress in Balkans

The era of bloody interethnic wars in the Western Balkans has ended in the last century; however, the prospect of a se- cure peace is far away. There are many reasons why peace and stability remain so fragile in the Western Balkans, in par- ticular in Kosovo. That is why we as leaders who have experi- enced the terrible consequenc- es of the war time, have to stand up and speak loudly before we allow ourselves to be overtaken again by the same inter-ethnic hatred syn- dromes of EU DAY organized jointly by EU and Kosovo's Ministry of European Integrations. Design by INIT the past. This pessimistic message it is All eyes on Kosovo’s sports and culture not meant to cause panic, HASHIM Month of May marks a flurry of arts and sports activities for Kosovans, as during this month but rather to Thaçi serve as wak- Kosovo becomes present more than ever in the global stage. Kosovo jazz singer Rona Nishliu will ing bell for participate in Eurovision song contest in Baku (vote 5!), IOC will decide on Kosovo's participation all of us and premier in particular in London 2012 Olympics, while Prishtina's own Rita Ora has entered European music charts in for EU. top positions with new single. Europe Day and Muslim Mulliqi Art Prize will also bring top artists Let me recall a funding fa- ther of EU, Robert Schuman in Kosovo, including award-winning guitarist Petrit Çeku and Turner-prize winner Nathan Coley. who in his famous declara- tion of 9th May 1950 said that “world peace cannot be safe- guarded without the making of creative efforts proportionate to the dangers which threaten Kosovans are trying more than tunities. Republic of Kosovo al representation, while the rate young Kosovans are exploding it”. Further on he said that “the ever to be part of the global is member of two UN Breton of recognition has increased. with buzzing activity in foot- contribution which an orga- community and results have Woods organizations such as Nowadays though, Kosovans ball fields, Olympic stadia and nized and living Europe can not been disappointing so far, IMF and World Bank, the coun- wan more than diplomatic rec- music pop charts. So who are bring to civilization is indis- despite challenges that disable try is increasingly recognized ognition. They want to give their the new generation of Kosovo’s pensable to the maintenance young Kosovans to have free- in multilateral stage, especially contribution to the sports and sports and culture heroes? of peaceful relations”. Sixty dom of the movement such as after the agreements signed in cultural scene. After decades Some of them will become very two years have passed since lack of visa-free ravel oppor- Bruxelles over Kosovo’s region- of isolation and oppression, famous in the next weeks and then, but Schumans’ remarks continues on page 3 continues on page 3 2 may/june 2012 Kosovo’s New Diplomat Diplomatic Bits & Pieces

5 quick questions shortnews U.S. and Kosovo from the Diplomatic circuit "Shaping the Future of the SEE enjoy an extraordinary Countries" discussed in Prizren with Alpbach relationship From April 27 through April 29, the Regional Con- ference of the European forum Alpbach convened Our political footprint? Probably not as big as the in Prizren for the work session titled “Shaping the Future of the SEE Countries”. The conference is media—and some of the politicians—like to pretend. an integral part of the annual program of Alpbach European Forum, which aims at promoting Euro- pean values and exchanging ideas, and experienc- What is the best thing about es of decision-makers and opinion-makers. This working and living in Kosovo? year, the conference was focused on the future and 1 What I enjoy most is the sense the euro-integration process of Kosovo and of the that this is a young, vibrant nation on Ambasador region, the role of civil society in the region and the move. Having been here in 2000 Christopher in presenting the project of the Regional Center and 2001, I well remember the sense Dell for Advanced Studies. Attending in this confer- that this was a wounded, tense place in "Shaping the ence were also the representatives of Alpbach Future of the those days. The contrast one sees and SEE Countries" European Forum from: Austria, Albania, Serbia, feels every time you walk down the discussed in Croatia, Montenegro, Macedonia, Italy, Bosnia street today is a reminder of how far Prizren. and Herzegovina and Kosovo. Kosovo has come since 1999 and gives me renewed energy every time. It’s a stronger than ever. I fully expect that privilege to be able to participate in this as Kosovo matures and consolidates Soros Foundation and remarkable process in some small way. its statehood, it will become more con- fident in asserting its independence British Council publish "Kosovo Calling" How big is the American pres- and its prerogatives. This is normal. A one-day conference called “Koso- states (Cyprus, Greece, Rumania, ence in Kosovo? It’s healthy, and I see no problem with vo Calling”, was organized by the Slovakia, Spain and Bosnia and 2 As several of my colleagues have it. We have differences with even Soros Foundation / Kosovo Foun- Herzegovina), at the conference, noted in previous responses to this our closest allies on some issues and dation for an Open Society (KFOS) Minister Enver Hoxhaj, emphasized question, that’s a tough one to answer there’s no reason to expect that our and the British Council in Kosovo that it is necessary and entirely because there are so many ways to partnership with Kosovo will suffer as as part of the project “Kosovo Talks reasonable for these states to move answer it. Embassy employees? About a result. EU”. Analytical book was presented towards accepting Kosovo. Authors 85 Americans. KFOR troops? Almost that seeks ways to upgrade rela- and diplomats from several non-rec- 900. Kosovar-Americans? Who knows? What is your favorite part of tionship between Kosovo and 5 EU ognizing countries also participated Thousands, for sure, and the number Kosovo? non-recognizers. In a speech given in a debate that intends to act as a grows every day. Our political footprint? 4 Once again, my answer to representatives of participating platform for more activities. Probably not as big as the media – and depends in part on what you mean by some of the politicians - like to pretend. the question. In terms of scenery, I If I believed some of what I read, there’d love Dragash and the Gorani people, have to be twenty of me making every who are ethnically related to my wife Supervised independence to end decision on everything every day. (whose family are ethnic Turlaks from in September what used to be the western-most How do you see American-Koso- part of Bulgaria). But my real favorite The Assembly of Kosovo adopted the Law on vil- vo relations developing? part of being here goes back to what I lage of Hoçë e Madhe and the law on the Histori- 3 As you know, the U.S. and said earlier, about being in a society as cal Centre of Prizren. These two laws are part of Kosovo enjoy an extraordinarily close young and vibrant as this one. Ahtisaari Plan and are among the last ones needed relationship. As one government to conclude Kosovo’s supervised independence. minister likes to remind me, this is not What is your current reading The adoption of these Laws by the Assembly was based on blind love, but rather, on a list? saluted by ICO, representatives of international proven record of mutual support and 5 I am reading Simon Win- institutions as well as of the diplomatic missions trust. I don’t see anything realistically chester’s Atlantic at the moment. On accredited to Prishtina. The Chairman of Parlia- changing that relationship for the my night table for dipping into are mentary Committee for Constitutional Amend- worse. When I came back to Kosovo in Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel ments, Arsim Bajrami, declared that the second 2009, after having been away for eight Kahneman, Hans Christian Ander- week of September 2012 will be “the week that years, I’d assumed that the relation- son’s A Visit to Portugal, 1866, and a concludes Kosovo’s supervised independence”. ship would have frayed a little at the book given to me by FM Hoxhaj, Kiss- International Seering Group of principle backers edges, as is normal in the daily wear inger’s China. I’ve got about a hundred Prizren and Hoca of Kosovo's independence will meet in September and tear of any partnership. I was books stockpiled on my Kindle and I’m e madhe will be to deliberate on the progress achieved in Kosovo very happy to find how wrong I was, looking forward to having a little more protected by and will most probably recommend the end of and how the already close relationship time in my next assignment to catch up Law adopted at supervised independence, which was envisaged by between Kosovo and America was on my reading. Assembly. President Ahtisaari to be an interim solution.

Kosovo’s Kosovo' s New Diplomat is a bi-monthly publication of the Ministry of NewDiplomat Foreign Affairs of Republic of Kosovo / For publisher: Petrit Selimi / nos scimus, Edited by editorial team / This publication is supported by KS_Talks_ non solum EU program of British Council Kosovo, sponsored by British Embassy in Prishtina and MFA Kosovo / Views expressed scribere in the publication do not necessarily reflect the views of sponsoring institutions or publisher / Contact: Government building, Mother Theresa str. PN, 10000 Republic of Kosovo; email: [email protected]; web: www.mfa-ks.net; Twitter: @MFAKosovo Kosovo’s New Diplomat may/june 2012 3 Diplomatic Bits & Pieces

Every issue of New Diplomat we will recommend two books, reports or websites with NewKosovoReadS interesting and updated content on Kosovo.

Title: Kosovo Calling EU integrations and enlargement and tools of communication cannot become a true reality Authors: Giorgos Kentas, Ioannis conditions an ever increasing with all EU members and their unless new approaches are Armakolas, Apostolis Karabairis, contact between Kosovo and the respective publics, not only to developed with each of these Oana Popescu, George Vadim, “non-recognizers”. Experts that obtain recognitions, but also to countries. A new dynamic in Eliska Slavikova, Jordi Vaquer, have provided input for this book build a strong base for stronger Kosovo’s relationship with Denisa Sarajlic, Sonja Biserko are all authors from civil society, bonds between Kosovo and all these countries would streng- Publisher: Soros Foundation think tanks, academia, etc. The EU members, which is a pre- then Kosovo’s EU integration Kosovo / British Council papers are focused on the internal condition for Kosovo’s successful prospects and amplify its Publication Date: 2012 politics of these countries, geo- integration into EU, this book voice on the regional and strategic considerations in the provides valuable insights as to international stage, to the This book is comprised of various wider context of European security what are he main challenges and benefit of all citizens”. rather a realistic landscape that in-depth position papers written architecture. The book can also opportunities in this process. will require Kosovo to re-double by distinguished authors from the be seen as a type of guide-book As editors of the book say, Sample review: “This its efforts to establish full rela- countries that have not recognized for recognition, as many of the the hope is that “opinion-ma- book has 7 longer papers that tions with all EU countries. Each Kosovo yet in EU and the region arguments put forth in this book kers, elected representatives, describe critical issues at stake of essays has a set of useful (Cyprus, Greece, Slovakia, Spain, are the critical bits and pieces of civil society, media, and ulti- between Kosovo and the 7 Euro- recommendations that are valid Romania, Serbia, Bosnia). The information missing from the dia- mately those in charge of state pean countries that have yet to not only for diplomas but for all papers were compiled throughout logue between Kosovo and these affairs will take a moment to recognize the young republic. those engaged in communica- 2011 and are meant to serve as countries. read this book and understand The authors are credible voices tion between Balkans and the 5 food for thought for policy makers As it is in Kosovo’s own that Kosovo’s European pers- in their own countries and they EU countries.” in these countries as the process of interest to develop new channels pective and regional integration do not paint a pink picture but — Ambassador Lulzim Peci

continued from page 1 few months. First and fore- may on a music album, Rita Ora is most, Kosovo is waging a titan- madness now releasing singles that are ic battle to enable Kosovo’s own easy picking first places in top- RecoGnmeter Olympic champ Majlinda Kel- In May, Majlinda Kelmendi carts. Rita Ora is being featured mendi to participate in London expects final approval for in all top music magazines as it 2012. Majlinda is one of the few participation in London appears that the Kosovo-Brit- Kosovans that have fully quali- 2012 Olympics ish star is entering a phase of Since the last issue of KND, one more fied for Olympic berth in Lon- global recognition. Will.I.Am, don. While she is free and able Rona Nishliu from Mitro- Ester Dean, Drake, The- country has recognized Kosovo! Count to participate as citizen of Al- vica participates in Eurovi- Dream, Kanye West and oth- bania, hopes are ha she will be sion Song Contest in Baku er major stars are all rumored is now at 90, soon approaching half able to take a place on her own, on behalf of Albania to all appear on Rita Sahatçiu representing Kosovo and Koso- Ora’s first album. of UN members who have formally vo sport federations. Majlinda’s Europe Day brings top Other events will also take cause has been supported by contemporary arts and place in Kosovo that will bring European Parliament that ap- music stars to Prishtina some major stars from classical recognized Kosovo as independent proved a special resolution de- music and contemporary arts. manding from International Kosovan born pop star Europe Day and the forthcom- and sovereign. Kosovo also joined 7 Olympic Committee to enable Rita Ora conquers top ing edition of contemporary Kosovo’s participation in Lon- spots in European music arts show Muslim Mulliqi, or- regional initiatives and forums don 2012. BBC World also fol- charts with new single ganized jointly by EU Office in lows the trail of Majlinda as she Kosovo, Ministry of European 50 attempts to present Kosovo for Integrations and sponsored the first time ever in Olympics. should take note and vote for by the public diplomacy pro- Other Kosovans will also par- Rrona’s song so she can make gram of British Council, Koso- ticipate here, albeit under flags it into finals in Baku on May vo MFA and British FCO, will of other nations. Most notably 26th. The hope is that as of gather some top names. Koso- more than 30% of Swiss foot- 2013, Kosovo will appear with vo-born Croatian musician Pe- 90 ball team in Olympics will be its own song for the Eurovision trit Çeku (featured in the issue Kosovans who have been ex- Song Contest, one of the most 2 of Kosovos’ New Diplomat as cellent in defending the colors visible platforms for nation- “New face o Kosovo”) will per- of their new country. branding in Europe. form live with a trio of top Eu- 0 100 While Majlinda hopes for Outside the formal arena of ropean classical guitarists for participating in London as international competitions, an- the benefit of Europe Day cel- Every two months. Kosovo’s New Diplomat will report Kosovan, this was not made other Kosovo-born musician is ebrations in Kosovo. Further- possible for Kosovo singers making waves across Europe. more, Kosovo Gallery will host on the rate of recognitions of Kosovo’s sovereign and for Eurovision Song Contest The cool Londoner Rita Ora, a series of events with distin- independent status by UN member states, internatio- in Baku. That being said, Kos- has been rocking the music guished names from contem- nal institutions and sports and cultural organizations. ovar jazz singer Rrona Nish- charts across the globe with her porary arts, including Nathan liu easily won the prize for mixture of hip-hop, garage and Coley, the famous British Turn- Last two months, recognition MFA that his country had best song in neighboring Al- drum and base music. Rita has er-prize winner, Charles Esche, rate has not stopped: Impor- recognized Kosovo’s soverei- bania, and this Kosovan la- been active in music for many former Curator of Istanbul Bi- tant Asian kingdom of Brunei gnty and independence. As we dy with exquisite voice will years, but she was noticed by ennale, and Galit Eliat, Israeli- has formally recognized reported last issue, Uganda be heard all across Europe the major American label Ro- born curator of Vanabbe Mu- Kosovo, after Brunei’s Prime and Nigeria have also signaled when she sings her beautiful canation owned by the music seum in Holand. For more on Minister Hassanal Bolkiah their intentions as well in song. Large Kosovo and Alba- mogul Jay Z, and after more this event, check the backpage officially informed Kosovo recent months. nia diasporas around Europe than a year of intensive work of this issue. 4 may/june 2012 Kosovo’s New Diplomat About Us & Our Activities NEWDIPLOMATS

Besar Dinarama What do you do, where are you based? Senior Donor Coordination Officer (Coordination, monitoring, analyzing and reporting on foreign aid). What is the most you like about the job you do? The ability to attend and participate in very important meetings such as Sector Working Groups and Sub-sector Working Groups where I am able to track and share information related to aid- funded activities. Another interesting element about the job that I do is networ- king. I find networking an essential tool for surviving not only in the Republic of Kosovo but everywhere and I love interaction with people. What is the best kosovo gallery thing about the city you live in? Besides the old buildings from the previously Ottoman presence in some parts of Prishtina which make it an impressive sight to see, Prishtina is the ideal place to hang out with your friends by finding the Roma Day best cafés all around the city. There, everybody can hang out with their friends celebrated and enjoy the city life. Dritero Arifi in Kosovo What do you do, where are you based? Political Adviser (to the Minster of Kosovo MFA and US Embassy coperate to European Integration Ms. Vlora Çitaku)- policy development, policy implemen- tation, policy presentation and evaluation of the effectiveness of policies. bring Roma art to Kosovo audiences What is the most you like about the job you do? Opportunity to attend and participate in important meetings, particularly at the highest political level, with ministers of various countries and ambassadors. This experience enables me and helps me to understand the practical aspect of politics and internatio- Kosovo Art Gallery housed the first ever exhibi- nal relations What is the best thing about the city you live in? There is so tion in its' premises by Roma artists, in an event many things that i like about my city, for examples, Theater, Kino, music, foot- that attracted many visitors and good reviews. ball game and other things. But, the best thing about my city, are people. They To mark the International Day of Roma, are very warm and friendly, also honest and loveable. Prishtina is the ideal two artists of this community exhibited their The Roma have place to hang out with your friends by finding the best cafés all around the city. visual arts works. The exhibition opened a a rich and very little while ago at the Kosovo Art Gallery, by the unique culture, a life that should artists (sister and brother): Farija Mehmeti and be remembered” Labinote Kashtanjeva Bajram Mehmeti, from Kosovo's native Roma community. In the exhibition, supported by the What do you do, where are you based? I am an Executive Assistant at the American Embassy in Kosovo and Minister of Ministry of European Integration, in the Department of the Ministrer’s Cabinet. Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kosovo, the What is the most you like about the job you do? Being an executive artists presented to the public their portraits and assistant to the Minister is a very opportunistic, challenging, and amusing job. pictures, mixed with images of ordinary men It gives me the opportunity to meet people from different areas. People who and women, who are anonymous in this visua- are crucial decision makers for the country and those who make sure that the lization of daily Roma life. decisions are executed correctly; people who are very intelligent – the elite. It is The ceremony was accompanied by music by a challenging job as I have to organize and plan the Ministers schedule always violinist Visar Kuçi, which was another element by making sure nothing conflicts and it is compatible with the second party. giving spirit and life to the art they made and Nevertheless I enjoy the energy and dynamism that is created by the work at added sounds to otherwise a good promotion the cabinet. In the end of the day, it is very pleasant to work with my excellent of culture and Roma customs. co-workers and an admirable Minister like Ms. Vlora Citaku. What is the “We started this cycle of paintings, which re- best thing about the city you live in? What I admire the most about the city I present daily Roma life, 12 years ago. The Roma live in – Prishtina is the large number of young people I see everywhere I go - at have a rich and very unique culture, a life that work, at university, in the streets, at the bars, everywhere. What impresses me should be remembered, and why not through even more is their enthusiasm towards achieving their goals, whatever they artistic exhibitions like this one, today”, added are. I absolutely love the hospitality and warmth of the people. Another thing I the artist Bajram Mehmeti. one of the artsts. find very attractive here is the energy and dynamism of life compared to other Petrit Selimi, the Deputy Minister of Foreign cities in Kosove. We have both Germia National Park to relax on the weekends Affairs of the Republic of Kosovo praised this and numerous bars to have a Friday and Saturday night out. work and pledged on behalf of MFA to tour the exhibition in Kosovo embassies throughout the world. Besides this, Selimi said that this exhibit Novitet Xh. Nezaj shows that Kosovo has a lot to give to Europe. “One of the many things is diversity in age, gen- What do you do, where are you based? I am Acting Director of Legal der and also nationality”, said Selimi, adding Department in the Ministry of European Integration. My whole work is focused that civil society and the state have to do outmost on approximation of Kosovo legislation with EU legislation. I have a passionate to cherish this diversity. desire to work in the sector of legislation. I am drawn to legal sciences because For Michael Murphy, Deputy American Am- I know of its strong reputation in areas of law. There are many people with a bassador in Kosovo, this exhibit shows how rich lot to offer our world society if given the slightest of opportunities. I am based and developed Roma culture is. in Prishtina. What is the most you like about the job you do? Though “The work of these two Roma artists unveils Kosovo is by far the youngest country in this world, we have a long way to go. I the artistic and cultural diversity of the Roma in know firsthand that we don’t all start out in life on an equal footing. I take my Kosovo”, said Muphy. commitments very seriously, and I am seriously committed to improve legal The International Day of the Roma, which system in Kosovo. My personal, spiritual, academic and professional goals are is observed on April 8, after the first Congress closely tied by the underlying desire to achieve, become, and succeed. I feel held on 1971, which decided on a flag and Roma that one of the best ways we can strengthen and improve Kosovo legal system hymn, sends a message of peace to all Roma in is to strengthen and improve ourselves both professionally and personally. Follow us on the world, to fight for their rights not to be dis- Twitter What is the best thing about the city you live in? I feel that our city should crimination and against racism and war. @MFAKosovo provide numerous advantages to citizens, and of course more green areas. Kosovo’s New Diplomat may/june 2012 5

Within the fenced area of the park, three different types of deer coexist, the German deer Feature of the Month (150), lepotar deer (140) and the red deer (40).

astrit ibrahimi The Green Oasis Wild hogs and 30 artificial lakes of Blinaja make an oasis in the middle of Kosova.

Artan Behrami cannot stand the noise and Bli- in the world. The aroma of lin- huge edifice. Formerly owned There you can see an artifi- Milot Hasimja naja is an oasis to them. The na- den after the rain is the thing by the Executive Council of Ko- cial lake surrounded by bushes, tural reservation, apart from he adores the most. There are sova, it was transformed into while on the far end of it, there A few kilometers away from the tall trees and many lakes, three thousand fenced hectares the PCK base. is a cabin. Next to the cabin Prishtina, there is a natural has a variety of wild animals. of land and three hectares out- Blinaja consists of 30 small stands one of the 10 guards hol- reservation called Blinaja. For This place, during the com- side the fence which are consi- lakes, all of which are man- ding a rifle on his shoulder. those that are not attracted to munist era, was a vacation dered part of the natural reser- made. There is a dam between Even though they get paid the seaside, this could be a very spot. Although it was enjoyed vation. two hills which accumulates very little, he covers over 20 good spot to visit. only by those who had the spe- Since the end of war, Blina- water during the winter. kilometers on foot during one People, who don’t like the cial red permission. ja, thanks to the Agency of the Within the fenced area of the day. sea and the sun, can get into These quick visits of the Forests of the Protection Corps park, three different types of It’s been 20 years since Ha- groups and head for the natio- communist ‘big shots’ are still of Kosova, is the most protected deer coexist, the German deer zir Drenica has been guarding nal park of Blinaja. Those who mentioned by the villagers, reservation in Kosova. (150), lepotar deer (140) and the this beautiful place from the are crazy about the wild ani- even though they hardly wit- Wild hogs and 30 artificial red deer (40). harm. ‘This place has always mals and group walks through nessed anything with their lakes of Blinaja make an oasis This rare wild animal world been beautiful. The Italians, the natural reservations will find eyes. They could only hear the in the middle of Kosova. also consists of the wild hog, Germans know about it. They Blinaja to be an ideal place. sound of hunting rifles. The reservation still re- the wild cat, the fox and the have always visited, especially There are so many communist ‘Only the biggest of the ‘big mains out of the sight of the wolf. Also there are many dif- the VIPs’, Drenica tells. He sets stories of hunting parties that shots’ and the most powerful invaders. If you are in a bigger ferent types of birds. off for a nine-kilometer walk stemmed from this place. ones used to come to this place. group, you will have to make a Down the hill you can en- to his house. One thing lingers Walking through this natu- The likes of Mahmut Bakalli request to the Agency of the Fo- counter a tortoise, always fol- with everyone who visits this ral reservation, Blinaja of Lip- and others’, says Xhevat Mis- rests beforehand. The agency lowed by butterflies. forest. What you see in three jan, will make you feel like you hori, a Blinaja resident, while is part of the Ministry of Agri- You will be surrounded hours in Blinaje sticks to your are in the middle of a documen- pointing in the direction of the culture. by forest fruits. You will hear memory forever. Even after 20 tary on rare wild animals that reservation. In his opinion, As soon as you entered the noises but you will not know years, one cannot help telling you’ve never seen before. They this is the most beautiful place camp of Blinaja you will see a what is making the noise. about its beauty.

PAGE SPONSORED BY 6 may/june 2012 Kosovo’s New Diplomat Column / Events

Academic and Ecumenical gathering in Prishtina to mark St Constantine Some of the top academic and religious figures will come to Kosovo invited by AUK in a conference that is meant to shed some light on legacy of Emperor Constantine and the ways how we can advance inter-faith dialogue in the region

On May 15-17, 2012 the Ameri- should be a pursuit of truth inter-faith conference among ment be celebrated in the can University in Kosovo is however impossible it may be religious leaders at a later Balkans in the spirit of the bringing together historians, to completely overcome the date. Edict of Milan. The confer- scholars and academic theolo- preoccupations of the time. The Battle of Milvian ence of historians in Prishtina gians from around the world, Hence, the participants of the Bridge, in which the Emperor will consider the historical in their capacity of academi- conference are invited to pres- Constantine defeated his en- significance of Constantine’s cians rather than representa- ent on three broad themes emies and became the undis- legacy. Among conference tives of faiths, to mark the that relate to Constatine’s puted Roman Emperor, has guests are: Dr. Ivo Banac from 1,700th anniversary of the legacy, religion and politics always been seen as crucial in Yale University, Dr Cristina Battle of the Milvian Bridge. up to the 20th century and the triumph of monotheism Cidarcea from Bukurest, Prof By bringing historians religion’s role in the public across Europe, the Middle Andras Riedlmayer from and academicians, as well as sphere currently. East, and North Africa. At Milan ensured toleration for Harvard, Dr Ger Duijzings observers from the religious The second day of the least by the end his reign, it all religions. with high-level guests such communities to a US-accred- conference will focus on was believed that at the battle Constantine was born as Muhyiddin Junaidi who is ited academic institution in how the existing inter-faith Constantine’s troops were in Naissus (modern Niš in deputy head of Conference of Kosovo, which is ethnically contacts within Kosovo and identified with a Christian Serbia); his father was a Ulemas of Indonesia, Father mixed, academically indepen- throughout the region can be cross or ChiRho (“In this sign, native of Dardania (roughly Donald Reeve of Soul of Eu- dent and rigorous, and serves enhanced. Representatives you will conquer”). While he corresponding to modern rope ecumenical organization, as a neutral venue for inter- of faiths will be invited as was not baptised a Christian Kosovo). He transferred the Paolo Rago from Community ethnic dialogue, the confer- observers as one aim of the until his death-bed and did Roman capital to the Balkans of St Eggidio from Vatican ence will aim to demonstrate conference is to explore the not make Christianity the (Byzantium). It therefore and all the leaders of Kosovo’s that the study of history possibilities of an extensive State religion – his Edict of seems fitting that his achieve- native communities.

continued from page 1 are still very relevant. The proj- of the entire region. This situ- within EU remains for us a minimum we ask and it is a ect he envisioned, what is now ation raises several questions. roadmap of hope – not only for European principle. We do the European Union, is about Why we can’t overcome yet Kosovo but for other people in Kosovo continues to not ask for favors compared to to succeed but only if EU lead- the instability and bring about Balkans. We as leaders need be the only country in others, but we likewise do not ers stay firm in embracing the more secure Europe? Do the to make sure our societies are the Western Balkans want to be deprived. In fact, the remaining Western Balkans decision-makers in Brussels being developed based on prin- EU course of action towards within the EU family. After all, lack the will or the power to ciples which served as founda- which still does not Kosovo, until now is still in the our place in this family is well accelerate the EU integration tions to build Europe after the have any contractual phase of rhetoric. EU highlights deserved. process for the remaining Second World War. We know the importance of European The recent years in the Western Balkan countries? how difficult and painful that relations with the EU. perspective for Kosovo, but no Western Balkans have been Are the decision-makers in process was. However, it has concrete step is seen and all this identified as the years of con- EU aware that by dragging this proven as a successful model remains simply as a rhetoric. siderable success and prog- process, they unintentionally and we have no reason why We in Kosovo have man- We continue to believe in ress, either in the aspect of help maintain the conflict in- not to adopt it. In this way, aged to achieve substantial the European principles and democratic consolidation or dustry alive in Balkans? we make sure to build a bet- progress in addressing all these values, but that has not helped economic development. This One can not expect easy ter future which will prevent aspects, but until now, there is Kosovo not to be considered applies to my country, as well. answers. But those who are the bitter past being repeated. no payoff for this progress. In still as a black hole of the re- Nonetheless, the mindset of responsible to deliver need Moreover, kosovars have un- contrary, the rest of the coun- gion. This is the right moment the past is still present in some to make it clear to the people derstood that membership into tries in the region managed to for Kosovo to move forward parts of the region. Thus, our of Balkans that the train they big democratic families cannot receive several carrots from the and get closer to the EU desti- northern neighbor Serbia still have embarked in, is the right take place while obstructing EU. The situation in Kosovo, as nation; it’s also time for EU to continues in an active manner one. That’s the one towards the development of the others. relates the EU affairs is engen- tell us that beyond the rheto- to undermine Kosovo’s state- Brussels. Because if otherwise, Personally I am deeply con- dering some negative impli- ric, the future of Kosovo is also hood. By doing so, Serbia is then we will all be in trouble. vinced that the entire region cations. Considering the fact concretely linked with Euro- questioning the existence of Any further delays from EU to will suffer if EU is thinking to that EU so far did not deliver pean perspective. This will also internationally recognized accelerate the membership of close its door for newcomers anything concrete on visa liber- contribute further to the peace borders in Balkans. This at- the remaining aspiring coun- like us. This would have been alization and Stabilization and and stability in the region and titude of thinking yet about tries of the Western Balkans serious mistake. Association process, citizens will be a decisive step of closing redrawing borders in the directly undermine our efforts In this context, I do un- are discouraged and there are the doors for the mindset of the Western Balkans represents to build multiethnic societ- derstand limitations and dif- some clear Euro-skepticism past, which is still present in the biggest threat to the fragile ies in our countries. Further ficulties of EU leaders and EU signs, in this respect. the region. Almost two decades stability. Serbia in the recent more, delays will serve to the member states leaders. I try to Kosovo continues to be the ago, the Kosovo War served as a weeks and months undertook radicals’ aspirations to work on understand their hesitations, only country in the Western catalyst for the democratization several severe provocations their agenda of creating mono- complicated procedures of Balkans which still does not and European integration. Now against Kosovo. The last ter- ethnic states. As consequence, the art of reaching consensual have any contractual relations Kosovo should not be left as the rorist attack in an ethnic Alba- this could lead towards the decisions. Above everything with the EU. This is certainly last country on our continent nian family in northern Kosovo change of internationally rec- else, we understand the EU not because we have not done without a European future. caused the death of a citizen ognized borders – the worst key demands for us in reach- our homework. Therefore, all Make no mistake: This and injured several members case scenario. ing European standards when we ask is to be treated by the must be the hour of Europe for of this family. Moreover, the Personally, I have no doubt it comes to the inter-ethnic EU as equal among the equals. Kosovo. recent developments in the se- that Kosovo’s rightful place tolerance, respect for minority In other words, we want to be curity dimension in Macedonia is within the big EU family. rights, fight against crime, cor- treated fairly like other coun- Note: Hashim Thaçi is Prime Minister of underline the fragile situation Its membership and equality ruption etc. tries in the region. This is the the Republic of Kosovo Kosovo’s New Diplomat may/june 2012 7 World Press Majlinda Kelmendi in “London 2012”

Institutions of the Republic of Kosovo and national sport organizations are engaging in powerful lobbying campaign on achiev- ing Kosovo’s goal on having Kosovar sports- men, especially of judo champion, Majlinda Kelmendi, in Olympic Games “London 2012” which takes place from July 27 to August 29, 2012. It is officially expected that Majlinda will attend in Olympic Games London 2012 but it is still unclear under what flag, namely she will attend under the flag of Kosovo or the Olympic Games flag. Having won the silver medal in Germany’s Grand Prix, held February in Dus- seldorf, Kosovo’s best sportswoman has man- aged to enter the top five of the Olympic list. During his recent visit to the United States, at the seat of the United Nations in New York, Kosovo’s Prime Minister, Hashim Thaçi, met with the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, and asked for his personal support that Koso- vo would be able to attend Olympic Games. Memli Krasniqi, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, and Enver Hoxhaj, Minister of Foreign Affairs, are making ongoing efforts in powerfully lobbying in attaining the goal that Majlinda Kelmendi would attend London Olympics. In terms of engagements in ensuring Ma- jlinda Kelmendi’s assistance at the Olympic Games “London 2012”, the minister informed Prishtina’s Rita Ora towards that his meeting agenda in the following months will be very busy. “Majlinda is the ba- sis of all discussions I have had with interna- global music’s highest peaks tional sports institutions” noted Krasniqi. The Minister stated that during his stay in Quebec of Canada, where the Executive Committee of the Olympic Committee will Since after the publication of ready- Jay Z told me that I could of peroxide blonde. “She used take place, I will file a clear request on how her “Hot right now” hit the be as famous as Rihanna,” Ora to adore Spiceworld and Ce- Majlinda will attend the Olympics. fame of the signer with Kosovo was covered by the edition of line Dion – and she still keeps a In the end of March, the European Parlia- origin living in London, Rita 12 April together with publish- classic T-shirt with Dion’s face ment, too, adopted a resolution on Kosovo, Ora, has been constantly in- ing by the famous newspaper. on. The difference between her which includes a call addressed to the Inter- creasing while the attention of Tim Jonze, journalist at this and Rihanna is that Rihanna national Olympic Committee, to allow sports- various international media prestigious outlet, who usually comes from Barbados, while men from Kosovo to attend Olympic Games has focused on her. Her recent deals with the most recent criti- Rita’s life started in Kosovo “London 2012”. presentation has been by one cism and trends in the music before her family moved to Kosovo institutions are also support Majlin- of the world’s most renowned worldwide, dedicated a page to London,” says amongst oth- da Kelmendi financially. fashion and culture magazines Ora calling her a charismatic er things the article on “The Ministry of Culture awarded judo sports- in Britan, “i-D”. In this maga- girl who is “progressing terri- Guardian”. With a big printed woman, Majlinda Kelmendi, with 10 thousand zine, Rita is presented in a very bly fast in the music of the time, photo and three on the web- Euro, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also trendy photo set. “Under the without much effort as it is the page, Ora did not forget to allocated 10 thousand Euro, and the Ministry production of a noted name, case with the others.” mention her pride in being a of Trade and Industry allocated 5 thousand like Jay Z, and after coopera- “I don’t think there will be a Kosovar. “I have said and I will Euro. tion with Drake singer, it seems next Rihanna, but Jay Z defi- always say that I come from that there is no doubt that nitely sees me as someone who Prishtina and that I am proud the expected moment has ar- could be as big as her. Initially, of that. Cooperation with Jay rived for this Albanian blonde” all knew Rihanna as a small-is- Z or Drake is of a higher level, writes the magazine. Mean- land girl, but Jay Z wants to re- but that does not mean that while, other British media peat that success. I think that is I will forget my people,” said write that the entrance of Rita me,” says amongst other things Ora. Her latest hits have been Ora in the world music market Rita Ora in this article dedicat- highly appraised, and dur- has startled many singers who ed her, as reported by Balkan- ing the week she will present a see her as a rival. web. new project of hers. During the Her appearance in “The "The Guardian" describes interview she was also asked Follow us on Guardian” does not leave much Rita as a girls you can easily about her cooperation with Twitter to be desired. Titled “Born notice her – a haywire mass signer Drake. The Guardian @MFAKosovo image - BBC News / BBC Sport / bbc.co.uk - © 2011 BBC 8 may/june 2012 Kosovo’s New Diplomat Promotions / Events

Kosova Art Gallery presents

Musim Mulliqi Prize International Exhibition May 30 – July 30, 2012 Prishtina / Kosovo

Curated by Charles Esche & Galit Eilat Ministria e Kulturës, Rinisë dhe Sportit e Kulturës, Ministria Sport and Youth Ministry Culture, of Omladine i Sporta Kulture, Ministarstvo

Artists Luan Bajraktari (KOS)—Yael Bartana (IS)—Mehmet Behluli (KOS)—Aya Ben Ron (IS)—Johanna Billing (SWE)—Danica Dakić (BiH/DE)—Josef Darbenig (AUS)—Qendrese Deda (KOS)—Arben Elshani (KOS)—Vadim Fiskin (RU/SLO)— Vangelis Gokas (GR)—Özlem Günol and Mustafa Kunt (TR)—Driton Hajredini (KOS)—Petrit Halilaj (KOS/DE)—Shpend Havolli (KOS)—Albert Heta (KOS)—Edi Hila (AL)—Majlinda Hoxha (KOS/NZ)—Fatos Kabashi (KOS)—Sejla Kamerić (BiH)—Orhan Kurtolli (KOS)—Tanja Lazetić (SLO)—Mark Lewis (CA/UK)—Dren Maliqi (KOS)—Laurent Mareschal (FR)—Deimantas Narcevicius (LT)—Adrian Paci (AL/IT)—Praneet Soi (IN/NL) and Bert Theis (LU/IT)