Politician urges Albania recognize Kosova’s independence

TIRANA, Nov. 3 – Sabri Godo, honorary head of the Republican Party and its former leader, said last Saturday that Albania should immediately recognize Kosova’s independence upon its declaration.
Godo said in an interview to the Gazeta Shqiptare that a parliamentary resolution passed by all members of the parliament had previously recognized Kosova’s independence. Godo said the Albanian government should take all the steps to be ready to recognize Kosova’s independence when it is declared. Godo added that none should fear that there would be any unification of the two countries afterwards, as the Serbs claim.
Until now, Albanian authorities have repeatedly said they would recognize Kosova’s independence upon its declaration, but they would not be the first to proceed with recognition and would only act in collaboration with the U.S. and the European Union member countries.
“It’s up to us to be the first to make that,” said Godo.
Albania has repeatedly said there should be no fear of a Greater Albania, as rumors coming mainly from Belgrade have claimed.
There is little chance that the internationally mediated talks between Prishtina and Belgrade under the auspices of the Troika – U.S., EU and Russia – will provide any result until December 10.
Kosovar leaders have said they will declare independence afterwards but that should be first recognized by the world powers. Russia has said they would not recognize it, and will block the United Nations from recognizing an independent Kosova. (Tirana Times Staff)