Thaci wants Serbia to "recognize Kosovo"

Hashim Thaci has said that Belgrade and Pristina "need a compromise that will allow a better future."
Source: Tanjug Wednesday, March 16, 2016 | 11:15

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(Tanjug/AP)

Thaci, who was recently elected Kosovo's president in the Kosovo Assembly and will assume that office in April, also said that Serbia should "recognize Kosovo and not prevent its international integration," Tanjug is quoting a report in Pristina-based Albanian language daily Koha Ditore.
Ethnic Albanians unilaterally declared independence of Kosovo in 2008. Serbia considers the proclamation a violation of its Constitution and territorial integrity.

Speaking at the Institute for Global Justice in The Hague, Thaci presented his "four points", which, according to him, will help "establish peace and cooperation" between Belgrade and Pristina.

The first is "the necessity of establishing cooperation in the fight against crime and trafficking, as well as religious extremism."

"Vigilance is also necessary about the influence of Russia," said Thaci, who also believes that Belgrade and Pristina should reach "long-term agreements in order to strengthen the economy and create jobs."

The daily further quoted him as saying that Serbia "should recognize Kosovo as a neighbor, and not prevent its international integration."

"However, we have to make a compromise that will allow for a better future," said Thaci.

According to him, "spurring regional cooperation is important for normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina," as well as "finally continuing to improve the rule of law in order to achieve justice for victims."

"Many allegations are published in Dick Marty's report. Kosovo is conducting a transparent, international judicial process to establish the truth. We have nothing to hide," said Thaci.