Baraliu: Britain principled in assisting the Balkans, Pierce to contribute to calming passions in the region

Mazlum Baraliu, a university professor from Pristina, assessed that the United Kingdom is principled in assisting the Western Balkans in solving problems that the countries of the region have both among themselves and in relation to integrations. The new special envoy of the United Kingdom, Karen Pierce, will influence calming passions in the region and further in the process of finalizing the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.

"The United Kingdom is very principled in helping the Western Balkans in resolving the issues that the countries of the region face both among themselves and with respect to integrations. Even though they have left the EU, they are actually the most experienced in democratic, political, and even diplomatic processes, so this is good for everyone," Baraliu told Kosovo Online. He is convinced that her moves will primarily depend on the positions of official London.

"Of course, ultimately everything will depend on the Foreign Office, the Government of the United Kingdom, and not on one envoy, no matter how principled or engaged. The government's stance will also determine the approach to the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue. But, it is good what they have done, because you know that in past years there have been quite a few special envoys from all countries. I think it is good news that Karen Pierce, who has proven to be an experienced and principled diplomat, will be able to help in improving relations between Kosovo and Serbia," emphasizes Baraliu.

He sees her contribution primarily in calming the situation in the region.

"The United Kingdom is a champion of diplomacy, if you will, and a source of democracy and diplomacy. It is mindful and knows what it is doing in European politics and diplomacy, regardless of being outside the EU. I think she will contribute to calming the situation, especially in this whirlwind of political and geopolitical turmoil and an international system that is clearly changing in terms of multipolar events and power centers," Baraliu is convinced. The United Kingdom and its envoys have a stimulating role for all countries in the Western Balkans and Kosovo, and the new special envoy can influence both Belgrade and Pristina.

"Especially in Pristina, because the relations of representatives from executive institutions, the government, and the prime minister, with Great Britain are excellent. I think that the positive influence of Great Britain will to some extent contribute to calming things down and moving towards improving and normalizing relations and enhancing the dialogue process, which will certainly be more intense this year," Baraliu emphasizes.