Greek MP Dora Bakoyannis has participated in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe where is being discussed about Kosovo.

She said that she has been criticized for supporting Kosovo, but she still asked for Kosovo to be part of the Council of Europe.

“In contrast to the issue of the Serbian monastery, nothing can guarantee the rights of minorities. The commitments of the Kosovar side have been signed by the authorities of Pristina, as a result they must accept the membership of Kosovo, but in any case, any part of the withdrawal [property for minorities will be dealt with in the international court of justice.

The issue of minorities in Kosovo is sensitive. I have made it clear that the creation of the association is a matter that belongs to Kosovar citizens. It cannot be negotiated in a vacuum. The fulfillment for the creation of the association has been one of the main criteria previously launched.

Let me close my speech on a personal note. I have been criticized and attacked for the way I have handled this matter. Mainly from those countries that do not recognize the Independence of Kosovo. I wish everyone the courage to be honest. There can be no preconditions because the objections have nothing to do with the idea of ​​access, and the objection to the recognition of Kosovo is an objection that I understand. But it would be more courageous on their part, but the report does not contain anything in this aspect and has nothing to do with the recognition of Kosovo,” she said.

The assembled committee of ministers, if they want my opinion, would have been my guide for drafting the report.

Also, several other MPs have expressed that Kosovo should be admitted to the Council of Europe.

“I know you have faced a lot of criticism, but I am sure that the conclusion you present in the report is the best. We must represent a unique organization. We are not here to discuss the recognition or non-recognition of countries. We are here to guarantee respect for democracy, the rule of law and people’s rights, to unite two million people under the umbrella of this organization. A progress has been made as far as the Monastery of Deçan is concerned. There is no reason not to consider this request. We should not confuse the role of this organization with other organizations. We have our own logic and I ask you to support the launched report and drop the amendments that would upset this balance. Let’s welcome Kosovo to the Council of Europe” – they said.