Former Croatian ambassador, Kramarić: Kosovo cannot be without institutions, "Serbian world" a real threat

At a time when the region, Europe and beyond are facing uncertain developments, former Croatian ambassador to Kosovo, Zlatko Kramariq, emphasizes that Kosovo does not have the luxury of remaining in institutional uncertainty.

The former Croatian ambassador underlines the importance of the country having functional institutions as soon as possible.

"I want to believe in the wisdom of Kosovar politicians who will know how to get out of this fragile situation. At a time when the Balkans and the world are facing major crises, Kosovo needs functional institutions as soon as possible. It is vital that a consensus is found in the Assembly, that key topics for the country's future are approved and that a clear message is sent to allies: the EU and the US, but also to countries like Russia and China. Kosovo is stable and the state is not shaken by internal political clashes," Kramariq told RTK.

The Banjska incident, according to Kramariq, cannot be forgotten. He calls for the issue to always be part of the political and diplomatic discourse, as long as justice is not served.

"The dialogue with Serbia must continue, but in parallel with it, justice must be insisted on. What happened in Banjska in 2022 is not an ordinary incident. It is unacceptable that terrorists are glorified as heroes, are free, and even promoted in the media. This is neither normal nor humane. Responsibility for Banjska must be sought without ceasing - the culprits must be identified, punished and the case must never be forgotten," Kramarić added.

He warns that the threat from the so-called "Serbian world" is still real and closely linked to the Kremlin's interests.

He sees this as a challenge that requires new regional partnerships for peace and security.

"I was the first diplomat to bring this danger to light. The so-called 'Serbian World' is not just about protecting minorities – it is a political, ideological and religious project, in which the Serbian Orthodox Church plays a central role. Just a few days ago, the Serbian Patriarch was in Moscow, where he not only met with representatives of the Russian Church, but also with President Putin himself. And there it was clearly stated: the Serbian world and the Russian world are one. This is no longer just propaganda – it is a warning. The aggression in Ukraine proves what happens when these ideologies are not stopped. Therefore, strong partnerships for peace must be built," Kramarić underlined.

Ambassador Kramariq says that the security agreement between Albania, Croatia and Kosovo is the best example that this region can stand together, not against anyone, but to preserve peace.