Kozarev: Multiple aspects of the incident with Osmani; the open war between VLEN and DUI comes to light

Dean of the Faculty of Legal Sciences, International Relations and Diplomacy in Skopje, Atanas Kozarev, stated that the incident in Skopje involving Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani had multiple aspects and that the political aspect had pointed to an open war between VLEN and DUI.

“The goal of our politicians is to build good relations between both countries, we are neighbors, and in that context, I think that such events can only open Pandora's boxes that are not really necessary at this moment. The political aspect related to this event has shown us on the surface that the war between the VLEN front and the 'European Front' DUI is still open," Kozarev said to Kosovo Online.

He explains that the incident with Vjosa Osmani caused significant problems for politicians, diplomats, and security experts.

“All of this has, in a way, raised the question of whether the reaction was justified and if that reaction carries a message, both concerning our politicians, our political scene, and Kosovo," this expert believes.

Highlighting the security aspect, he explains that North Macedonia and Skopje Airport security are making great efforts to increase security due to potential terrorist activities, and these procedures apply to everyone, including passengers.

"From that point of view, I think that what happened, what we as the public managed to learn, is an event that does not have any positive connotations but raises certain questions with political background. I indeed touched on the security aspect because the security screening of all passengers, not only at our airport but everywhere in the world, is issue number one, regardless of who it is. We have to invest a lot in the quality of security, both at the airport itself and for all those who pass through or transit,” Kozarev said.

He adds that after the diplomatic note was sent, everyone expects the investigation to eliminate all speculations that question the relations between North Macedonia and Kosovo.

He also sees yesterday's visit by Prime Minister Albin Kurti to Skopje in that light.

“Through the visit, Kurti is signaling to our government that the relations between the two countries are more than normal and that the friendship is deepening,” the expert believes.

He adds that the incident has only deepened the crisis among Albanian parties, both in North Macedonia and Kosovo.

"The opposition in Macedonia and I believe in Kosovo too have used this moment to show who is who. The conflict concerns legitimacy. How much the current VLEN leadership is truly contributing to demonstrate its power through its engagement and involvement in this trivial case, which may have been devised to provoke a reaction as has been happening here on the political scene. We hear daily accusations between the European Front and VLEN, especially regarding this issue, even with specific questions: who is behind the behavior of Kosovo's president, and who is behind the behavior of TAV members and police officers at Skopje International Airport to score points. I assure you that the Macedonian police at the highest level take care of the safety of our citizens as well as all foreigners who come or transit through Skopje International Airport,” Kozarev concluded.