I nterview of Mr Javier Solana published in Epoka e Re .

1. Mr.Solana there are talks continuing in Vienna for the final status of Kosova. What’s your vision about these talks from your standing point?

I continue to urge both Pristina and Belgrade to negotiate openly and constructively aiming to find common ground and reach an agreement about the future of Kosovo. The European perspective of both Pristina and Belgrade will be greatly enhanced by a sustainable settlement that promotes regional stability and that is compatible with European values.

2. When could we expect for concrete results from these talks? Do you think that the year 2006 will be the end of the status quo for Kosova?

It is important now to continue focusing all efforts to reach an agreement within 2006. This requires compromises by both sides. The status process is led by the UN Status Envoy, Martti Ahtisaari, and the future status of Kosovo will ultimately be up to UN Security Council.

3. How much satisfied are you with the Kosova leaders? Do you think that they are doing their best in accomplishing their tasks?

Pristina has been considerably constructive in the negotiations so far but more has to be done and more compromises are needed from both sides.

4. Which is your attitude prior to the decentralization of Kosova? How do you expect the end of this very important process?

Decentralization is a central issue in the status process. It is largely about building confidence between the communities and creating space for developing a genuine multi-ethnic society. It is important for Kosovo to be generous, open and forthcoming regarding decentralization.

5. After all it will be very hard for the Serbian minority to part from the influence of Belgrade. Still the Serbian deputies won’t take part in Parliamentarian sessions of Kosova. As such, this doesn’t leave any bad impression to anybody and it’s being tolerated in some ways from the internationals as well. Although there are cases like the one with the Minister Petkoviq who is willing to give his contributions for Kosova. Wouldn’t it be better for the Serbian minority to take part in the Parliament and there debate for their problems?

There can be no sustainable solutions in Kosovo without participation of all communities. I have repeatedly urged Kosovo Serbs to return to the Kosovo institutions and to participate to the Kosovo political life. I continue to urge Belgrade to encourage Kosovo Serbs to participate in the Kosovo institutions. This is the only way to promote their interests.

6. Corruption has apparently increased in Kosova. What should be done, Mr.Solana, to struggle with the corruption within the framework of the institutions of Kosova?

Problems such as corruption underline that settling the status of Kosovo will not automatically resolve all the problems of Kosovo. Kosovo leaders must act now against corruption and must act to build strong institutions which can fight effectively problems such as corruption and organized crime. We stand ready to help you to fight these problems, but the ultimate responsibility for your future lies with you.

7. Citizens are desperate from the highest level of unemployment, corruption and nepotism. Will the EU tolerate within Europe to allow such a corrupted country where dominates an individual?

I repeat that we stand ready to help you. The EU is also making preparations for a post-status operation in the broader field of the rule of law. We will support Kosovo and Kosovars but I repeat that, ultimately, the future of Kosovo is up to the people of Kosovo.

8. Recently your engagements are increasing in the Middle East. This makes Kosovars think as if the EU lost the interest for Kosova in someway. Where it is written in your agenda Kosova’s case?

The EU has certainly wide concerns and responsibilities and the world has many problems but rest assured that the Balkans remain a key priority for the EU. Not least, because of the European perspective of the Balkans.

9. Mr. Solana, you are usually a good friend for the peoples who want to live in peace and independence. Do you believe that you will return in Kosova as a guest with your excellence of the patriot who gave freedom to this nation?

I want one day in the future to return back to a Kosovo where people from all communities will live together in peace, democracy and prosperity.

10. Do you still have the opinion that Kosova needs a vast coalition government?

Kosovo needs a stable government now and in the future. A government that can be effective regarding standards implementation. A government that can lead the people of Kosovo through this complex situation.

11. The Union Serbia-Montenegro has died down and was sealed by the citizens of Monte Negro. Somehow it is finally getting closed a bitter chapter for the peoples in the Balkans. Notwithstanding, it still remains as open issues the problems of Vojvodina, Sanxhak, Presheva valley. What do you think for these places which could be crisis-ridden places?

Kosovo is the last open issue in the Balkans. After settling Kosovo's status, the leaders and the people of Kosovo will have to remain very focused on the stabilization process and on the economic and political reforms that are required to reinforce democracy in the region and meet European standards.

12. Finally, how much optimistic you personally are Mr Solana for the future of Balkans?

I am optimistic by nature but regarding the Balkans I am also optimistic by conviction. We have invested a lot all these years in the Balkans and all the peoples in the region share the European perspective as a common aspiration. I believe that together we will succeed .