All closer to Pristina than to Belgrade

The main problem in relations between countries of the West Balkans is Kosovo because it burdens relations by Serbia with the neighbors. Serbia is the biggest and central country in the region in which all countries have recognized Kosovo independence. The paradox is that all of these countries now have better relations with Pristina than with Belgrade despite the fact that their state, economic and market interests dictate them opposite.


Experts say that this situation is to be viewed at as a short-term situation.
Milorad Pupovac, political leader of Serbs in Croatia thinks that nevertheless there are positive signals indicating that all countries are now treating Kosovo problem more seriously.


Serbia has defined as two priorities of its foreign policy better relations with the neighbors and strengthening of the leading role in the region. ‘Blic’ sources from the Foreign Ministry admit that it is difficult to reach rapid solution to Kosovo. Top officials are very hopeful about the opinion to be made by the ICJ. That is why it has been decided that there shall be no change of policy in spite of increasing pressures from abroad.


In recent time there are intensified requests by the leading EU countries and the USA that Belgrade and Pristina establish dialog over concrete issues. Domestic experts warn that Serbia must not sit with hands crossed and block its process of European integration but has to find a formula for talks with Kosovo.
At the moment there are no signs that Serbian diplomacy is near to finding a solution.