Pajic: At least five countries from Central and Latin America could withdraw recognition of Kosovo

Former Serbian Ambassador to Mexico, Milisav Pajic, stated that the current political climate in Central and Latin America is favorable to Serbia and that it is possible that at least five countries from this part of the world may change their stance and revoke their recognition of Kosovo.

"Every UN member state has one vote in the General Assembly, especially when issues like the situation in our southern province are on the agenda. It is very important that resolutions submitted to the detriment of Serbia do not receive a prevailing majority in the General Assembly," Pajic told Kosovo Online.

He emphasized that the current political situation in Central and Latin America could lead to new withdrawals of recognition of Kosovo's independence.

He pointed out that in Central America, Serbia "could do something" in Panama and Costa Rica, but that there are even more such opportunities in South America.

"In Latin America, there are three countries that have recognized so-called Kosovo. One of them is Peru, where I believe there are serious chances to secure a withdrawal of recognition. We had 'Elektroprojekt' there, one of the iconic Serbian firms, which was involved in many of their infrastructure investments, including the 'Chira–Piura' project for irrigating Peru's desert areas," Pajic said.

As the second country that could change its position on Kosovo, he mentioned Colombia.

"Colombia is traditionally a pro-American country and conducts a pro-American policy in the region. However, at this moment, a leftist government is in power that is distancing itself from the US. I believe now might be the right moment for us to engage through a high-level delegation visit and the opening of political dialogue with Colombia," Pajic stated.

He added that Colombia is the second most populous country in the region and an important regional player.

"There is now a favorable atmosphere for us to initiate serious contacts and dialogue on this issue," the former ambassador stressed.

As the third country that could most easily change its stance on Kosovo, he highlighted Guyana.

"We had very good relations with Guyana during the Non-Aligned Movement. The former Yugoslavia was, in a way, an idol to them. Guyana is still a member of the Non-Aligned Movement, and I believe there is potential to make some progress there," Pajic said confidently.

He added that among the countries that could potentially shift their position on Kosovo’s independence are the Dominican Republic, where there is a large Serbian diaspora, and Belize, formerly known as British Honduras.

"Through certain cultural and economic projects, something could be done to encourage them to revoke their recognition of so-called Kosovo. I think Belize is a country to which Serbia could offer meaningful assistance, such as scholarships and investment projects. I believe something could be achieved there," Pajic said.

Regarding Latin American countries that firmly support Kosovo’s independence, he singled out El Salvador and Honduras.

"The chances are very slim there. Aside from Mexico, we have no embassy in the region. We have one in Cuba, but it mostly covers Caribbean countries rather than Central America. Without a direct presence, embassies and diplomatic missions, it is very difficult to influence local political elites to consider arguments against the recognition of so-called Kosovo," Pajic warned.