The US Embassy in Pristina announced on Friday that the United States of America have suspended the dialogue strategic relationship with Kosovo due to the statements and actions of the Kurti Government.
In connection with this, the Albanian-American Relations Council (AARC) reacted today, expressing deep concern.
“The Albanian-American Relations Council (AARC) expresses its deepest concern regarding the suspension of the Strategic Dialogue between the United States and Kosovo. This development should serve as a call for immediate action for Kosovo’s leaders and institutions,” the response states.
“AARC has long warned of an erosion in the Kosovo-US partnership. Diplomatic relations are at an all-time low, and the suspension of the Strategic Dialogue is the latest and most alarming example of this deterioration. This trend must be reversed immediately. Rebuilding trust and partnership requires close coordination with the United States at every level,” it further states.
According to them, first and foremost, the Constitution and the constitutional order of Kosovo must be respected and political leaders must act without delay to constitute institutions according to the last elections or to reach a rapid consensus that would pave the way for new elections.
AARC further emphasizes that the suspension of the Strategic Dialogue should not be used by any political force for short-term gains, as governments change, but the ultimate cost is borne by Kosovo and its people.
“The inability and unwillingness to engage in dialogue has created extreme polarization in Kosovo. Even issues that are clearly defined and resolved by the Constitution have unnecessarily turned into legal and constitutional disputes.”
Patriotism and love for Kosovo do not belong to any single individual or political party. Rather, governments – whether acting in a ‘caretaker’ capacity or as plenipotentiaries – and political parties have an obligation to lead responsibly and create an environment for political dialogue.
“Issues of sovereignty, international obligations, independence and other vital state interests belong to the entire people of Kosovo, not just one party or government,” the Council on Albanian-American Relations emphasizes.
AARC emphasizes that the pro-American spirit of the people of Kosovo should never be manipulated or misused and according to them, it is clear that no people are more pro-American than the citizens of Kosovo.
“In this regard, the President of Kosovo must act boldly and without delay, using her constitutional authority – including the possibility of leading the country towards new elections if necessary.”
“She should also engage directly with the US Embassy in Pristina and with authorities in Washington, DC, to understand the real reasons behind the suspension of the Strategic Dialogue and to communicate transparently with the public,” the response states.
“At the same time, we must emphasize the profound injustice of the current situation: while Kosovo is harshly rebuked, Serbia – whose leadership is openly aligned with Russia and China, and which sponsors regional instability, including paramilitary incursions into Kosovo – is rewarded with high-level visits with the US Secretary of State and discussions of strategic partnership.
However, this reality does not absolve Kosovo of its responsibilities. To paraphrase a Balkan parable: ‘killing your neighbor’s cow does not give you more milk’. Kosovo must look within itself, take corrective action, and demonstrate the maturity of its institutions and political leadership,” it further states.
“Acts to exercise sovereignty are correct in principle, but in practice, there is no sovereignty for Kosovo without the support of the United States. In every step it takes, Kosovo must carefully consider the interests of its allies, first and foremost those of the United States.”
Moreover, both the current and any future government must urgently establish lobbying mechanisms and channels in Washington, D.C. This work cannot be delayed. Kosovo should not be penalized in favor of Serbia – especially at a time when Serbia is led by a former minister from the Milosevic regime, who has made it clear that his main goal is to bring Serbia closer to Russia and China.
The Council on Albanian-American Relations urges Kosovo’s institutions and political leadership to confront this moment of crisis, to act with unity and responsibility, and to ensure that Kosovo’s partnership with the United States remains strong, effective, and future-oriented,” it further states. /Telegrafi/