“NACIONAL”, 7 February 2004

 HRH Alexander Karadjordjevic:  Let us put our differences aside for the future of Serbia 

I AM HORRIFIED BY THE THOUGHT THAT SERBIA WOULD BE  ISOLATED AGAIN

 

Belgrade -  My concern is for our people and the future. Unless we have stability we cannot create jobs and get on with economic recovery. We cannot afford to be without a government any longer. We cannot loose valuable time. We have to unite and put our differences aside for the future of Serbia- said Crown Prince Alexander Karadjordjevic in the interview for “Nacional”, estimating the current political situation in Serbia.

• Do you agree with the remark that with the entering of SPS into the national institutions we have returned to the time prior to 5 October?

Providing all political parties respect democratic principles and put the people first then comprise and dialogue is essential. All political parties that have democratic principles are fully respected and this is the case in all democracies.

• Do you expect the government made up of all four democratic lists, despite their arguing at the moment?

 My advice is for all political parties to make an even bigger effort to work together and come up with a workable solution so as to get our country out of this mess and back on track. The more time we loose the more the people will pay the price and jobs will suffer. My position is to respect all political parties and the will of the people.

• Do you expect that the Western governments will stop sending aid to the transition processes in Serbia?

We have a serious problem that has to be resolved and that is the   west’s demands regarding compliance with the Hague Tribunal. So the new government has a monumental task to deal with and avoid a new critical situation for our country before a supposed deadline of June.  

• How do you see the further cooperation with the Hague Tribunal, as a condition for any further associations with EU and USA?

I have mentioned this situation in the answer to the previous question. It would very much appear that the USA and EU are putting the pressure on. We must not take this lightly and the new government must think of all the people and the future but most certainly enter into as soon as possible negations and prevent further hardship and isolation. This situation must not be taken lightly from what I am hearing we could face major problems with the EU and USA that would very much have an effect on our economy and future. I am very concerned and would be horrified if we were isolated again.  

• Some of the parties that have gained seats in the Parliament openly supported reestablishment of Monarchy in their election campaigns. Do you expect to see this issue opened in the Parliament?

It is very important that we solve now the issue of having a government that works for all our people and the best interests of Serbia. Once we have a government and a functioning parliament then the business of a new constitution and parliamentary monarchy can be addressed not to forget reforms. However my concern at this time is for the well being and living conditions of our population and respect for everyone regardless of religion or ethnic origin.

 

Ivana Miljus