Former US Ambassador to Kosovo Jeffrey Hovenier speaks his truth on many issues. Speaking in an interview for the Atlantic Council with journalist Ilva Tare, the former diplomat addressed the country's main political issues, including government formation, while signaling that an alliance between opposition parties such as PDK, LDK and AAK with representatives of minority communities is possible, although it would be a very fragile coalition, writes A2 CNN.
“Currently we have mixed signals. The parties entered the elections representing different things. They were united in their criticism of the current government, but whether they can turn this into a sustainable governing coalition remains an open question,” said Jeffrey Hovenier, former US Ambassador to Kosovo.
Asked if the United States has a preference for a particular party, Hovenier stressed that during his term, the US was ready to work with any “democratically and legitimately elected government” to advance Kosovo’s position on the international stage. Regarding the association, the former diplomat maintained his usual stance, saying that it is a commitment that must be fulfilled.
"The Republic of Kosovo has made this commitment since 2013. This commitment has not disappeared. There are also unfulfilled obligations from Serbia, which must be implemented. The issue of association is also included in the normalization agreement and the Ohrid annex of 2023. If I were to give Peter Sorensen and the European Union one piece of advice, it would be that the best way forward is not to make any new commitments now, because what has been achieved in 2023 is an impressive package, despite the fact that Kosovo and Serbia have done nothing to implement it. The implementation of the pact will completely change the dynamics and would be to the benefit of Kosovo, as well as Serbia," said Hovenier.
According to the former ambassador, the main challenge has been balancing the constitutional protection of minority communities with Kosovo's sovereignty. Among other things, he responded to old accusations. He denied that the US had ever questioned Kosovo's sovereignty, but stressed that sovereignty does not mean avoiding the consequences of political decisions. (A2 Televizion)
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