Ibishi: The Ibar Bridge should be opened in agreement with strategic partners

Security expert Nuredin Ibishi assesses that the opening of the main bridge on the Ibar River is currently in a status quo and that any government action, in order to avoid possible tensions, should be coordinated with international factors in Kosovo and strategic partners.

"We are now in a status quo, between not implementing and not opening the bridge and what the Government of Kosovo stated – to do so after the bridge is certified and other measures are taken. But this will likely be done in consultation or agreement with international factors, especially with our strategic partners," Ibishi told Kosovo Online.

Ibishi emphasizes that unilateral moves would be wrong and would lead to additional tensions and conflicts.

"We cannot do this alone, we are too small. Not just us, but also Serbia and Croatia in comparison to the great powers. It could only lead to discussions about war and peace in this region once again. That is why everything must be done in agreement and coordination with international factors," Ibishi said.

Although he doesn't question the reasons for the bridge to be opened, he does not rule out the possibility that the opening of the main bridge on the Ibar has become an election issue.

"I'm not making political judgments, that could be the case. But bridges serve to connect people, communities, for the flow of vehicles and goods... It is unimaginable that this bridge is not finally opened, considering that all the other bridges are in use. However, there is likely an assessment at this moment that this should perhaps be done in the foreseeable future. Therefore, I wouldn’t say whether any coalition in power or anyone else is using or criticizing this, but I think that realistically, the bridge should be opened. However, it must be done in agreement with the international presence in Kosovo and after assessing the situation to avoid worsening the situation. But, this cannot be delayed indefinitely," Ibishi concluded.