Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Foreign JUL/AUG 2012 Affairs of Republic of . No.5 Year II. Interview with Dokufest in an- There has been the Italian cient city of Prizren progress in Kosovo Ambassador A film festival in the heart of Charlotte Keenan, CEO of Tony Five Questions for cultural heritage in Kosovo Blair Faith Foundation Michael L. Giffoni NewDiplomatKosovo’s

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon Visits Kosovo NEWS Secretary General Ban Ki-moon met with Prime Minister Hashim Thaci and President Atifete Jahjaga this week, Tuesday July 24th. Thaci and Jahjaga spoke with the Secretary General about the aspirations of the citizens of Kosovo for a Euro- pean future and the con- clusion of supervised indepen- dence. The Secretary

General ac- MR. THAÇI AND MR. BAN Primeminister Hashim Thaçi with International Civilian Representative Pieter Feith, in Vienna ending supervized independence knowledged the achievements of Kosovo towards full independence Kosovo Granted Full Sovereignty and emphasized that the importance of Euro-Atlantic The International group that supervises Kosovo’s independence has decided to grant it integration of the Balkan re- full rights of national sovereignty as of September following progress in establishing a gion is a high priority. Mr. Ban arrived in the directly democratic and multi-ethnic state after his meetings in China last week. [From Agency] The International Steering Group The move by the Internation- elected in the north who respects President Atifete Jahjaga of — composed of 25 western na- al Steering Group will ease Koso- the institutions of Kosovo.” He Kosovo stated that “the decision The delegation of tions — has been established ac- vo’s way toward eventual mem- told reporters in Vienna, refer- of the International Steering cording to the blueprint proposed bership in the European Union ring to the country’s restive north- Group, to end the supervision UNESCO ambassadors by the comprehensive status pro- and NATO. ern Serb enclave, which has been of the independence by return- visits Kosovo posal of UN envoy President Mar- The decision, announced at the forefront of extremist vio- ing to its people what rightly be- ti Ahtisaari. The ISG was respon- Monday in Vienna by Pieter lence. longs to them, opens a new hori- A delegation of permanent sible for overseeing Kosovo’s inde- Feith of Kosovo’s International Feith said “much remains to zon for the Republic of Kosovo, ambassadors at UNESCO, pendence and helping establish Civilian Office, reflected confi- be done” in Kosovo’s transfor- its position within the interna- and members of the World democratic institutions in Koso- dence that Kosovo’s leadership is mation into a Western-style de- tional community and the de- Heritage Committee in vo as well as monitoring the coun- able to solve the remaining issues mocracy that meets EU criteria. velopment of the country.” early June organized a visit try’s adherence to human rights of contention between majority But he also noted progress, in- Austrian Foreign Minister to Kosovo with the main and freedoms. Kosovo has been ethnic Albanians and minority cluding in the northern Serb re- Michael Spindelegger, who was purpose of becoming famil- under international administra- Serbs. NATO troops under the gion whose people had long seen chairing the international meet- iar with Kosovo’s cultural tion since a NATO bombing cam- KFOR fl ag will continue to have neighboring Serbia as their life- ing on ending the supervision heritage. The delegation paign ousted Serbian strongman a presence in Kosovo, in order to line but now in “increasing num- of Kosovo’s independence, ex- headed by Ali Zainal, met Slobodan Milosevic’s forces in maintain security from external bers are asking for services from plained that the decision came with leaders of institu- 1999. Kosovo formally declared in- and internal threats to peace and the Kosovo government“. only now as it was in less than tions of Kosovo. During the dependence from Serbia in 2008, stability. Monday’s announcement af- five years that the Kosovo gov- meeting with the delegation, but the ISG maintained sever- In the ISG meeting of political fi rmed expectations that Kosovo ernment fulfi lled the goals of the Minister of Culture, Youth al important executive powers. directors, Kosovo’s Prime Min- will enact the remaining legisla- Ahtisaari Plan, which envisag- and Sports, Memli Krasniqi, These powers will now be abol- ister Hashim Thaci pledged to tion of the status proposal, guar- es creation of a stable, democrat- briefed the ambassadors on ished in September, following the work hard for reconciliation: “I anteeing and strengthening dem- ic and multiethnic Kosovo that the achievements and chal- progress that has been reached in will communicate and cooper- ocratic institutions and human could contribute to the regional lenges in the field of cultural critical fi elds of state-building. ate with every single Serb leader rights by September. stability. [From Agency] heritage. [From Agency] 2 jul/aug 2012 Kosovo’s New Diplomat Diplomatic Bits & Pieces 5 QUICK QUESTIONS SHORTNEWS Interview with the FROM THE EMBASSIES The Conference on Security Archi- Italian ambassador tecture in Balkans of the “Aspen” Institute held in Prishtina What is the best thing about work- Michael L. Giffoni ing and living in Kosovo? Ambassador, Italy The two-day Aspen Conference in Prishtina, 1 I am just entering the fi fth year of has now concluded. It was fi nanced by Ger- permanence in Kosovo as Italian Am- man and American government in collabora- bassador and I can really say that it has tion with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the been the experience of a life-time, a sort Republic of Kosovo. The conference, conducted of coronation of the twenty-fi ve years under the title “The Future South East Europe of activity, both as national and Euro- Security Architecture: framework of issues” pean diplomat, in the Western Balkans is the fi rst event organized by the renowned Countries and for their path towards American Think Tank. Personalities who ad- progress and European integration. I dressed the attendees of the conference were strongly believe that working in Kosovo The two-day the President of Kosovo, Atifete Jahjaga, Prime is still a great professional experience European Perspective of this Country Aspen Conference Minister Hashim Thaçi, and Deputy Minis- since the consolidation of this Country, that we strongly support. An important was fi nanced ter of Foreign Affairs, Petrit Selimi. Over 30 and its social and economic progress, are element is represented by the economic by German various guests from the United Stated, Russia, at the core of the regional stabilization and trade bilateral relations that are and American Germany, Ukraine, Turkey, Serbia, Croatia, government in and of the European Perspective of the intensifying and that could become, in collaboration with and other countries, have discussed at differ- whole region. Moreover, going beyond my vision, the real “engine” for further the Ministry of ent panels on the ethnical identity as possible the strictly professional point of view, improvement of the, already positive, Foreign Affairs of security issue factors, non-traditional security the daily life in Kosovo, a land of great bilateral relationships. the Republic of risks, possible framework of regional collabo- hospitality, adds to such a valid profes- Kosovo. ration, etc. sional experience also a comprehensive What is your favourite part of and unforgettable human dimension. Kosovo? 4 I like Prizren and its heritage of a How big is the Italian presence in genuine Balkan town but also the beauti- “Cercle Diplomatique et Economique International” Kosovo? ful landscape of the Rugova Valley and introduces the Republic of Kosovo 2 The major component of the of the Northern part of the Country. As Italian community in Kosovo can be for the human dimension, anyway, I will The prestigious Austrian maga- obviously referred to the Italian military have an enduring and pleasant memory zine Cercle Diplomatique et contingent to KFOR mission, that now is of the kindness and generosity of the Economique International has based in Peja, leading the Multinational Kosovo people, of all communities and provided an extensive introduc- Battle Group West, and in the North, as all over the Country. tion in its pages of the Republic of part of the Operational Reserve Force Kosovo through its leaders, Prime (ORF): at the moment, Italy is the fi rst What is your current reading list? Minister Hashim Thaçi, Minister contributor to KFOR, with more than I am a voracious reader: I try to of Foreign Affairs, Enver Hoxhaj 1000 units on the ground. We are also 5 read at the same time 4 or 5 books, and Kosovo ambassador in Vienna, among the main contributors to EULEX, of both fi ction and non-fi ction. At the Sabri Kiqmari. With 40 years of with around 100 offi cers and a great and moment, as for fi ction, I am reading publication, Cercle Diplomatique matic corps, international organi- effective presence in the assistance to the again a “classic” of the modern Italian et Economique International is the zations and industrial and social Justice sector. Of course, there is also an literature: “La Storia” written by Elsa leading magazine for the diplo- affairs in Vienna. increasing Italian business community Morante. I am also reading “The Acci- in Kosovo, as we are the second econom- dent”, one of the most recent novels from ic and commercial partner of Kosovo Ismail Kadare’, an author that I really among the EU Member States. like: his subtle psychological character- Thaçi and Orbán at the Economic ization, his vivid invocation of a histori- Forum for investments in Kosovo How do you see Italian-Kosovan cal moment with a sort of “Kafkaesque” relations developing? atmosphere, makes this an exception- 3 As I said, for Italy the consolida- ally powerful novel. As for non-fi ction, From June 12, Prime Minister Hashim Thaçi tion and progress of the Republic of I am currently reading the biogra- The conference went on an official visit to Hungary where Kosovo is an essential element of the phies of two modern Italian heroes of is sponsored he met with Hungarian counterpart, Viktor stabilization and the progress of the fi ght against organized crime, Judges by Ministry of Orbán and other state officials of Hungary. whole region of the Western Balkans Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino, Foreign Affairs On June 13, Prime Minister Thaçi and Prime that is also an essential element of the and a great book that I suggest to ev- of Republic of Minister Orbán opened the World Economic European integration process. There- erybody, specially to the young people Kosovo and Fo- Forum held in Budapest, whose goal was fore, the assistance we continue to give to that want really to understand what rum Alpbach. to attract foreign investments and signing this Country is devoted not only to pure happened in the last 100 years: “Think- agreements of cooperation between the insti- economic development, but also to the ing the Twentieth Century” written by tutions of the Republic of Kosovo and those of real progress of Kosovo society in order the late great historian and philosopher, Hungary. The forum attracted great interest to give a concrete contribution to the Tony Judt, in his last days. from over 100 Hungarian companies.

Kosovo’s Kosovo’s New Diplomat is a bi-monthly publication of the Ministry of Foreign nos scimus, NewDiplomat Affairs of Republic of Kosovo / For publisher: Petrit Selimi / Editors: Jason non solum Chapman, Adam Forrai, Geneva Garland / This publication is supported by KS_ Talks_EU program of British Council Kosovo, sponsored by British Embassy in Prishtina and MFA Kosovo / Views expressed in the scribere publication do not necessarily refl ect 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 jul/aug 2012 3 Diplomatic Bits & Pieces

EVERY ISSUE OF NEW DIPLOMAT WE WILL RECOMMEND TWO BOOKS, REPORTS OR WEBSITES WITH INTERESTING NEWKOSOVOREADS AND UPDATED CONTENT ON KOSOVO.

Title: Ricardo Cabral, NewBorn – book“Israel Sketchbook” builds of urgency, and time is rarely 10 dias no Kosovo (NewBorn – 10 the trip as a process of narrative consistent with the concept of Days in Kosovo – a graphic novel) construction, “Newborn” is more capturing a given moment. The Authors: Ricardo Cabral like a registry of observations. book questions the relationship Publisher: ASA, Portugal Despite unforeseen twists and of the inhabitants of Pristina Publication Date: 2010 turns, the narrator of this book with the legacy of the past, the is a keen observer, ready to narrative journey notes parti- Ricardo Cabral, the graphic no- record everything, take photos cularly the authors surprise to velist is previously known for his and sketch, in order to better discover a city indistinguishable famous “Israel Sketchbook”. The understand this new space that in respect to the routine. Despite record of his passage through has been transformed in diffrent the recent war, the narrarator Pristina is the form of his new waves of changes. fi nds that there is no trace of book, “Newborn - 10 Days in The picture in the book is disturbance in daily life. / Sara Kosovo”. Where his previous drawn with overlapping strokes Figueiredo Costa, Expresso Digital Diplomacy Strategy RECOGNMETER of Kosovo Foreign Ministry to be Launched

SINCE THE LAST ISSUE WAS PUBLISHED, Kosovo MFA has teamed up with Norwegian Embassy, British Embassy, British Council, USAID and Kosovo internet organizations and activists in presenting and implementation 1 MORE COUNTRY HAS RECOGNIZED of the new National Strategy on Digital Diplomacy KOSOVO. THE COUNT IS AT 91, OUT OF 193 UN MEMBERS IN TOTAL. THIS COMES Fisnik Musa Kosovo faces a number of ALONG WITH THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE unique challenges related to the digital sphere and digital com- CONCLUSION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE munication. As a new country having achieved recognition by STATUS PLAN THAT WILL HAND FULL almost one hundred countries and acknowledgment by of its passports by more than 150 SOVEREIGNITY TO KOSOVO IN SEPTEMBER members in its fi ve-year existence, full UN membership is a long-term aim for Kosovo. There has been a notable political progress in the process of Kosovo’s integration into the 50 European Union, but here too, Kosovo’s MFA believes more MFA twitter feed has to be done for outreach and advocacy vis-à-vis 5 EU change their current stance, AppCompetition will also be members that have not reco- to improve the overall percep- launched to support genera- 91 gnized Kosovo yet. Important tion of Kosovo and to promote tion of new mobile and tablet benchmarks were reached this Kosovo’s economic, human and applications with content from spring when EU commission cultural potential. Kosovo. made a consensual decision to This requires a long-term Furthermore, the Norwe- 0 100 grant Kosovo its’ own Feasi- and sustained effort, integrated gian MFA which are pioneers bility Study, as the fi rst step into wider media and commu- of digital diplomacy in Europe, towards formal EU integration nication delivery both in Pris- are supporting the implemen- Every two months. Kosovo’s New Diplomat will report process. tina, at Kosovo embassies over- tation of various activities with on the rate of recognitions of Kosovo’s sovereign and Kosovo’s image is also seas, in addition to locations a special fi nancial assistance, hampered by the old war where there may currently be on top of the resources provi- independent status by UN member states, internatio- propaganda perception and the no diplomatic presence. ded by Kosovo MFA and FCO. nal institutions and sports and cultural organizations. slow pace of reforms in Kosovo, MFA Kosovo has cooperated The creative approach cultural prejudices as well as with communication experts taken by Kosovo diplomacy In the last two months the Foreign Minister of Chad lack of proactive digital content from FCO UK in planning has not gone unnoticed and Kosovo received the recogni- Moussa Faki Mahamat, at the originating from Kosovo. a very in-depth strategic most recently USAID has also tion of an important State. Chad Embassy in Paris, Chad Digital diplomacy is a vital framework that seeks both confi rmed support for imple- Following the May 2012 has officially recognized tool of diplomacy if Kosovo recognition of Kosovo in online menting of some of the sections meeting of Kosovo’s Foreign Kosovo as an independent wants to build its international infrastructure, as well as of the Digital Diplomacy Minister Enver Hoxhaj with and sovereign state. position to eventually persuade improving content originating Strategy. For more news follow non recognizing countries to from Kosovo. First national our tweets :) 4 jul/aug 2012 Kosovo’s New Diplomat About us

A WORD FROM OUR INTERN NEWDIPLOMATS

ARRITA GJAKOVA What do you do, where are you based? I am appointed Consul of the Republic of Kosovo to Swe- den, Norway, Finland, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia and very soon to Iceland too. My primary responsibility is to provide superior Consular services to Kosovans in Nordic and Baltic Countries. What is the most you like about the job you do? I have a passionate desire to work in the Public Service in which sector I believe in and where I feel valuable. Being one of the fi rst Foreign Service Offi cers of the Republic of Kosovo, the youngest country in the world, means a privilege to me. What is the best thing about the city you live in? Stockholm is known for its beauty, its buildings and architecture, its abundant clean and open water, and its many parks. What fascinates me the most is that the whole city is built on 14 islands. Stockholm is made for walking. It is sometimes referred to as Venice of the North.

JULY 4TH DECORATIONS ON MOTHER TERESA ST. DRILON ZOGAJ What do you do, where are you based? I work as Senior Offi cer for Communication and Accre- ditation, in the Media Offi ce of the MFA Kosovo. ON INDEPENDENCE What is the most you like about the job you do? I like mostly the communication with different Geneva Garland media and journalists, but I also like to work in public diplomacy. What is the best thing about As an American in Kosovo celebrating July 4th here, I was sur- the city you live in? I like my city; I love my city, prised by all the celebration on Mother Teresa Street. I remember because it’s really a mess. Each moment of the day, being in America durring Kosovo’s very fi rst Independence Day. you see beautiful people as young Europeans’ we I was working on 46th street and 7th avenue on February 17th, are. We really enjoy the life in my city. If you come to 2008. It was just up the street from the United Nations Building Prishtina, you will never be disappointed. in New York. I remember sitting in my offi ce and hearing this strange sound rolling forward from 6th avenue. So I ran outside, and came face to face with what must have been every Albanian VALDRIN GRAINCA in out on 46th street. They were all making their What do you do, where are you based? I am way down to the UN, and it was a party. I will never forget the Senior Offi cer for Europe at the Ministry of Foreign mix of emotions that day; joy, relief, dignity and hope. Maybe you Affairs, Republic of Kosovo. In collaboration with were there that day, maybe we crossed paths; I gave a lot of high colleagues, my responsibility is to collect and fi ves down that parade of cars. analyze information on the foreign policies of The atmosphere was so interesting. It was during the begin- European states towards Kosovo. What is the ning of Obama’s fi rst run, and this kind of ‘culture of hope’ was most you like about the job you do? During my gaining momentum in the American youth movement. But that studies I have always been fascinated with relations day, we were inspired by you. I remember thinking how human between states. I see the Ministry of Foreign this desire for self determination is, and how very much alike we Affairs as a mechanism of building connections are in this egalitarian spirit, Americans and Kosovars. and bridges between countries and peoples. As As July 4th passes, my own country’s independence day, a bit no country is self-suffi cient and problems are of sentimental patriotism is just unavoidable. You think about becoming more global, the need for interactions the time when we ourselves were a newborn state, and when we between states is increasing more than ever. were declaring to the world our self determination. There was What is the best thing about the city you live in? a time when we were fi ghting for our basic principles, asking of Coming from Ferizaj, which is in South of Kosovo, ourselves the fundamental questions that would determine who and working in Prishtina is a mixed experience. In it was as a nation we wanted to become. That time for Kosovo is Prishtina I enjoy the dynamics of the city and deba- now. It is amazing as an American to live and work here, witnes- ting with friends on different issues. sing this time. I am reminded of the origins of my own values, how far we have come, and how far we still have to go. Demo- cracy anywhere is a never ending project. HAKI MEROVCI I have learned so much here working for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The atmosphere is full of that same youth and What do you do, where are you based? I work optimism. The ministry’s civil society approach to state recogni- as the Mentor for protocol supporting the institutional tion is innovative and persistent. Kosovo as a whole is a place development to the activities of the Ministry of Foreign full of youth and innovation, embracing tradition and new ideas Affairs. What is the most you like about the job at the same time. A mixture that is beautiful and even baffl ing you do? Interaction with diplomats, promotion of our at times. There is so much more I have to learn about this place. national interests as well as the possibility to offer perso- It’s a strange thing sometimes being an American here. Du- nal and professional commitment toward strengthening ring the war I was a kid and could not tell you where Kosovo ties between our two countries. What is the best was on a map. But in 2008 what I knew about Kosovo was that thing about the city you live in? PI appreciate in it was a place full of youth and hope, it was a place that just de- particular cultural heritage and architectural patrimony clared its independence- that was my introduction to Kosovo. of city of Vienna, specially the Stephansdom Cathedral, What I would like to say is that for the next generation of new Schonburn Palace, Giant Ferris Wheel, Donau Tower Follow us on American diplomats, we actually chose to come here because Twitter and similar. I also like artistic live offered at numerous you inspired us. @MFAKosovo museums, theatre and opera houses. Kosovo’s New Diplomat jul/aug 2012 5

Prizren in short Home of both historical legacies and international festivals , Prizren is an Feature of the month amalgamation of the past and the future.

OPEN AIR CINEMA AND RAP CONCERT IN PRIZREN Prizren: Historic Stage Set for the Future The heart of cultural heritage in Kosovo, Prizren is host to fi lm lovers from around the world every year in the International Dokufest.

Shkumbin Brestovci Mountains reach heights up to established on July 10, 1878. The Next to the mosque is the Hal- which was established by the 2000 meters. temporary Albanian Govern- veti Masjid (of the Dervish sect), Grand Masjid of Gjakova. DOKUFEST, The International There are 240,000 in habitants ment (1881) was also settled in the more than 350 years old. While Rrapi Marashit, the two meter Documentary and Short Film in Prizren and its 74 surrounding city of Prizren, presided by the fa- couple meters away is the house wide tree, is another rare attraction Festival, is the largest fi lm event villages, with diverse ethnic ori- mous citizen, Ymer Prizreni. of Hasan Sheu, which is an 18th and natural beauty, which requires in Kosova and probably also of the gins living in harmony, making Prizren has inherited a lot century house. specific climate conditions.The South East Europe. The Festival the city cultural diverse. Except from its sensational past, espe- Gazi Mehmet Pasha Hamam is monuments lay among both banks is organized in the summer in the for the majority Albanians, the cially compounds of cultural and located right behind the Kukli Beu of the river, on which the 16th cen- picturesque and historical town of population is mostly Bosnians, historical values. Among the most Mosque. The Hamam was built in tury Stone Bridge was built. Prizren which attracts numerous Turks, Roma, Egyptian, Ashkali visited are: Shatirvan Square, the 1573, and was used by both men On the other side of the river, international and regional artists. and a small number of other mi- Fortress and the surrounding and women in separated rooms, is the Sinan Pasha Mosque, being In this annually organized norities. compounds, Church of Saint functioning till 1926. Still near one of the most beautiful and main festival fi lms are screened twice During the 11th century it was Premta, Church of Saint Saviour, the Hamam, is the Emin Pasha mosque in Prizren; built in 1615. a day in three open air cinemas known as an important urban Bajrakli Mosque, Safi Sinan Pas- Mosque. Couple of meters away, after as well as in two regular cine- settlement. In 1019, it was the hea- ha Mosque, city’s Hamams (Tur- On the way down further, the you pass the Shatirvan Square, the mas. Except for its fi lms, the fes- dquarters of the Byzantine Em- kish public baths), the city’s wa- Katip Sinan Celepi Mosque is lo- Saint George Cathedral is located. tival is also well-known for lively pire Church. During Serbian rule ter sources, Stone Bridge and a cated, dating back to 1591, to be The cathedral is still being protec- nights after the screening. Va- (12th till 14th century), the region large number of traditional folk- followed by the compounds of ted by KFOR Troops. Not far from rious events happen within the became inhabited by Slavic popu- lore houses, inherited through the League of Prizren, with the the cathedral, you may also visit scope of the festival: workshops, lation. During the rules of Kings centuries. Bajrakli Mosque (or Gazi Meh- the Church of Saint Savior, belon- DokuPhoto exhibitions, festival Dushan and Urosh, from time to Prizren is located, at around met Pasha Mosque, as it is also ging to the 14th century and built camping, concerts, which altoge- time, Prizren served as the head- one and half hour time bus drive known) within its compounds, in Byzantine style. ther turn the city into a charming quarters of these kingdoms. from the capital Prishtina. Bus being among the most beautiful Along the way, leading to the ci- place to be. After occupation by Ottoman lines from Prishtina, Gjakova mosques in Prizren, built in 1566. ty’s fortress up on the hill, there is The city of Prizren lies in the Empire (1455), there was a tempo- and Ferizaj run on a regular ba- Several traditional and old another Orthodox Church; located southern Dukagjini plane of rary loss in its signifi cance, howe- sis.There are also direct lines from houses are located on Xhevdeet on the right hand side of the road, Kosovo, on 640 square kilome- ver it soon became a powerful eco- Prizren to Skopje, Albania and Doda Street, being among them just below the fortress walls. On ters of territory. During history it nomic, cultural and administra- Belgrade. the house of Ymer Haxhi Prizreni, the way there, you may see the old was known as Theranda, a name tive (Sandzak and Vilayet admi- In order to see the best of Priz- prime minister of the temporary houses, many of them being aban- which belongs to town of Suhare- nistrative centers). In 19th centu- ren, one may need a full day’s government of the League of Priz- doned and empty nowadays. On ka nowadays. Prizren has a signi- ry, Prizren was the second largest time. Initially, it is recommended ren. For more information, please top of the hill, is the city’s Fortress, fi cant role in the region, business business and trade center in the to park outside downtown, if tra- refer to: http://sq.wikipedia.org/ from where one can have a beauti- and economy wise, because of its Albanian territories, with more velling by car, since parking is an wiki/Ymer_Haxhi_Prizreni ful view on the city and Pashtriku geographic positioning in border than 1,500 stores. issue in downtown Prizren. The Maksut Pasha Mosque is Mountains. with Albania and Macedonia. Prizren holds a crucial role in Behind Hotel Theranda, loca- located opposite to the League of Being known for its traditional The city lies at 400 meters the history of the Albanian Natio- ted in downtown Prizren, is the Prizren, has an old cemetery in values, Prizren also offers a taste above sea level, while some of nal Movement; it was the host of Sarachane / Kukli Beu Mosque, its yard. Close to it, is the masjid of traditional food; mostly offering its surrounding hills of Sharri the Albanian Union of Prizren, which was built in 1534. followed by the Sa’adi Tarikhat, grilled specialties.

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www.kosovoguide.com www.balkansgeotourism.travel 6 jul/aug 2012 Kosovo’s New Diplomat World Press We are impressed with the progress and aspirations of Kosovo Interview with Charlotte Keenan, Chief Executive Offi cer of Tony Blair Faith Foundation on former Prime Minister’s visit to Kosovo, his projects on religious tolerance and the new programme that is launched in Kosovo

EXPRESS: Mr Blair is returning to Kosovo, this time bringing to two top Kosovo universities a very signifi cant academic opportunity with your program. Why Kosovo? How did the Foundation decide to get involved with Kosovo? Charlotte Keenan: The To- ny Blair Faith Foundation, foun- ded by the Rt. Hon Tony Blair in 2008, focuses on understanding the impact of religion in today’s world, and striving for respect Charlotte Keenan Tony Blair speaks in Prishtina and understanding between the world’s major religions. times like an island, still unable Kosovo is a new state and one fi re. That is why often a protec- is a young state with much to be Eastern Europe and the Bal- to travel without Schengen visas that few young people outside ted school environment is the proud of, but there is still much kans have seen enormous politi- as well as not fully recognized by Kosovo know much about aside best place to have these debates. work to be done. Within Kosovo, cal, economic and social change EU members. How important from the legacy of the confl ict. Our programme is active in 19 I have seen the mosque and over the last three decades, as are these academic networks We are therefore providing countries around the world church standing side by side and well as signifi cant confl ict. It is and social and fi nancial invest- young Kosovans with the oppor- which means that students can I see the willingness to ensure against this background that the ment in dialogue and tolerance tunity to tell their story and to be taught alongside students there is religious tolerance. But Foundation believes greater aca- for the image of Kosovo and the help people understand more from countries such as Indone- we must go beyond tolerance demic opportunity and educa- progress of our statehood? about their country and their sia, Israel, the UK, Pakistan - for the essence of true coope- tional understanding of the key CK: Good question. It goes aspirations for the future. and India. Young people work ration is respect and respect for social and religious forces at play beyond the question of the EX: Kosovo has had a debate together to explore global neighbour – political, social, in the Balkans is needed. image of Kosovo and I think is recently on religion in classes, issues such as the environment, religious or geographical. Let’s Tony Blair also has a histo- much more profound than this. and the parliament did not allow human rights and poverty from aim for that, and let’s show the rical relationship and commit- As you say, Kosovo is still not religious classes in the elemen- different religious and cultural world you are not shying away ment to Kosovo and the region universally recognised as a state tary and secondary schools. perspectives. They investigate from discussing and debating and it is this shared desire with and foreign travel is frequently The constitution is secular and the reasons for similar and the role of religion in society, but the people of Kosovo for sustai- diffi cult. I understand that a part of population feels it’s different world views, practi- that you are open and engaged ned peace and the continued can cause signifi cant societal better in Balkans if we don’t talk cing the key skills of confl ict not only within Kosovo, but the development of a new state that aproblems, particularly for about religion as that can stoke negotiation and resolution. This region as a whole. we hope makes the work of his young people who are not able fi re quickly. How important is results in students having an EX: Kosovo is in dialogue Foundation timely. We have to grasp the opportunities they we talk about our faiths? How active understanding of different with Serbia, though Serbia still established a very good wor- deserve. Some of these issues do we manage for the talk not to faith traditions and worldviews doesn’t recognize Kosovo. How king relationship with Kosovo are matters for governments to become quarrel, and quarrel not gained in a safe and neutral can be reconciliation without Foreign Ministry and Ministry decide, and not for charitable to become fi ght? environment. These skills then recognition? This is one of the of Education. I would also like foundations. But I hope we can CK: This is a problem that stay with them and are used at most important dilemmas for to compliment Deputy Foreign make a contribution to helping is all too common – it’s not just home and in their own personal those striving for peace and Minister Petrit Selimi for a very connect young Kosovans with here that people worry about relationships within Kosovo and justice? creative and all-encompassing their peers from other countries it! Religion is a diffi cult and the Balkans. CK: There is no easy answer vision he has shown in Kosovo’s around the world through our emotive subject, and therefore Finally, it is a mark of a to this. Making peace at any level public diplomacy efforts. two education programmes, the one that many feel is better truly pluralistic democracy that takes time and persistence. One On Monday, Mr Blair will Faith and Globalisation Univer- ignored. But that does not mean people of all faiths and none, are of the most important things deliver a lecture on Faith and sity Programme and our High the subject goes away or stops welcome with equal voice. about any peace and reconcilia- Globalisation that will inau- School Programme, Face to infl uencing society. Kosovo may EX: Kosovo has somehow tion process is to immediately gurate the partnership of the Faith. These opportunities are be a largely secular country, but had to carry the stigma of being reverse the de-humanising Foundation with two of Kosovo’s largely facilitated by internet and you sit within a region built of not tolerant for the religions, process that inevitably happens prominent universities, the free videoconferencing. As well many different faith traditions while actually the history of during war. I also believe it is University of Pristina and the as the introduction of our uni- and where religion has actively the young state shows plenty essential we work closely with American University of Kosovo. versity programme, we are also infl uenced identity and ethnic of tolerance and co-existence. the young generation so they can Both universities will become now working with the Kosovan divides. More broadly, the vast Society is 90% Muslim, but the be a part of shaping a different members of an international government to provide Kosovan majority of people in the world main city square is named after future for themselves.That is network of leading research school students with a special have religious faith. And in a Mother Theresa, and churches why our school programme, universities committed to the opportunity through techno- world where traditional boun- and mosques frequently share Face to Faith, is so very power- critical analysis of the impact of logy, to learn more about other daries are eroding and the forces the same courtyard? Do you ful. It enables young people to religion in the modern world. cultures and accept and respect of globalisation are ever more feel Kosovo is a tolerant society engage directly with each other They will focus on teaching, other. The programme provides powerful, it is vital that people when you visit? How can we as individuals, rather than as a research and policy formation. a transformative experience for understand and are equipped ensure that more of the world collective national or religious We look forward to working Kosovan students to be affi liated to respect the beliefs of others. knows the truth? group. This is an important with both universities and to globally, without overlooking I believe it is very important CK: My visits to Kosovo have pre-cursor to building lasting providing students with these their national aspirations, and that young Kosovans are also only recently started, and feel I peace in the hearts, minds and opportunities. help Kosovan students and tea- given these opportunities so that am only scratching the surface behaviours of the next genera- EX:The visit is always a spe- chers to develop deeper dialogue they are faith literate in a global of this country. Each time I tion. Peace needs patience and cial opportunity to reiterate the and negotiation skills. world. come, I am deeply moved and will, and the motivation to keep special relationship between UK It is worth saying that the The challenge, as you say, is to impressed by the aspirations going even when the prospects and Kosovo. We also feel some- opportunity is also reversed. ensure that we do not stoke the of many of the people I meet. It can seem bleak. express Kosovo’s New Diplomat jul/aug 2012 7 World Press

Bottle tops for Wheelchairs IMF Positive Kushtrim Ahmeti is clearly not an average guy. about Indeed, the Guinness Book organized through the Turk- their wheelbarrows or trail- of Records is counting him ish Embassy in Prishtina. ers; the recycling process is as a candidate and in June It’s also the Turkish Embas- thus made more effi cient. Kosovo’s it will be decided whether sy who is helping to send the So for all kinds of reasons he can take his place along- tops to the Muzaffer Pinarbasi we should all be collecting the side the world’s longest river Isletmeler recycling company bottle tops and passing them Growth (yes, that’s the Nile. Oh, or the in Izmir, as there are no com- on to the AUK Charity Club. Amazon; discuss), the largest panies in Kosovo who recycle As Kushtrim says, ‘with this International Monetary Fund decides rubber band ball (over 4000 this kind of plastic. project I hope we can offer to grant Kosovo 60 milion USD after kg) and the most eggs crushed The technicalities of plastic some help to our fellow citi- evaluating that “macroeconomic with head in one minute (80, recycling can soon get so intri- zens who have special needs, in New York). His claim to cate as to put one off even try- and we are contributing to and fi nancial policies are broadly on fame will be a lot more use ing to separate your rubbish creating a cleaner environ- track”. Kosovo expected to achieve up than a four thousand kilo- – even if we lived in a country ment, especially bearing in to 4% growth in crisis year of 2012. gram ball though – he has col- where waste could be sepa- mind the fact that plastic takes lected 235 tonnes of plastic rately collected by municipal 400 years to decompose’. bottle tops. services. The AUK Charity Club al- The Executive Board of the International And unlike the guy who The crucial basic fact is that ready have more than 80kg Monetary Fund (IMF) completed the fi rst re- crushed all those eggs with the type of plastic used for of bottle tops, collected by view of the Republic of Kosovo’s economic his head, Kushtrim has bro- soft drinks bottles is different AUK students as well as pri- performance under a program supported by a ken the record with the aim from the type of plastic used vate business and NGOs, and Stand-By Arrangement (SBA). The decision, of doing some good. Not only for soft drinks bottle tops, so are hoping that they will soon which was taken on a lapse of time basis1, en- does he see his collection sav- for either to be recycled ef- reach the 250kg of bottle tops ables the authorities to draw an additional ing bottle tops from the gar- fectively they have to be pro- needed for one wheelchair. SDR 39.108 million (about €47.96 million or bage as a way of keeping all cessed separately. They have identifi ed eight about those rivers (Nile, Amazon, This separation is labour- Kosovan families where US$58.90 million), bringing total dis- and Drini i Bardh alike) and intensive, so by removing the wheelchairs are needed and bursements under the arrangement to SDR their surrounding country- tops from the bottles yourself their plan is to distribute the 43.359 million (about €53.17 million or about side clean, but he has been you are already helping the fi rst wheelchair/s on 7 April, US$65.30 million). After the disbursement, raising money through the recycling chain. In fact, you though they will continue the the authorities intend to fund the central sales of the bottle tops to a re- may even be making it a saf- project as long as they contin- bank’s special reserves fund for emergency li- cycling company in order to er place as plastic bottle tops ue to receive bottle tops, so get quidity assistance to banks. buy wheelchairs for the dis- cause accidents to recycling unscrewing and storing those Kosovo has remained largely shielded from abled. plant workers if the tops are caps. Caps of any colour and the euro area crisis due to limited trade and fi - To date he has raised money inadvertently left on before any size can be collected. nancial linkages. Real GDP growth for 2012 is enabling him to have distrib- the bottles are crushed un- For more information or to projected at 3.8 percent, supported by robust uted 1180 wheelchairs. der a pressure which is great arrange delivery of bottle tops remittances and capital infl ows that originate, Originally from Kosovo, enough to force off the caps, collected, you can contact the to a large extent, with the Kosovar diaspora. Kushtrim is currently based and shoot them into the faces AUK Charity Club on chari- Infl ation has remained contained. Macroeco- in Turkey, but his project is of those nearby. [email protected] or you nomic and fi nancial policies are broadly on now set to reach back to his Not only that, but if you re- can bring your bottle tops to track, with all end-April 2012 and continuous homeland. move the caps before waste the Green Drinks organized quantitative performance criteria under the By means of a connection plastic bottles leave your by The Ideas Partnership on program having been met. with the Charity Club at the home, the people collecting the second Thursday of every The Executive Board approved a 20-month American University in Koso- the bottles for recycling (in month at N’Kllapa bar. SBA for the Republic of Kosovo on April vo (AUK), bottle tops for his Kosovo’s case not municipal [From Agency] 27, 2012 (see Press Release No. 12/154) in an project are now being col- waste services but the unof- amount of SDR 90.968 million (about €111.55 lected in Kosovo too, and the fi cial recyclers who roam the Elizabeth Gowing is a founder of The million or about US$137.00 million). The key wheelchairs these caps will city’s skips looking for resell- Ideas Partnership, a Kosovan NGO objectives of the authorities’ program are to buy are destined for Kosovan able scrap – Agron and his working on educational, cultural and restore a sustainable fi scal position and suf- environmental projects. She is also the families. They are German- colleagues whom you may author of the recently-published, Travels fi cient government cash buffers, anchor fi s- made wheelchairs which cost have met in previous Ecosovo cal policy through the introduction of a fi scal in Blood and Honey; becoming a bee- Follow us on 450 euros on the market, and articles) are able to compress keeper in Kosovo. She can be reached at Twitter rule, and enhance the resilience of the fi nan- their transportation is being the plastic and fi t more into [email protected] @MFAKosovo cial system. [From Agency] 8 jul/aug 2012 Kosovo’s New Diplomat Marketing