From mentor at alb-net.com Mon May 1 23:36:32 2000 From: mentor at alb-net.com (Mentor Cana) Date: Mon May 1 23:36:32 2000 Subject: [Kcc-News] Kosovars launch hunger strike / Kosovars on Hunger Strike for Ethnic Albanians Jailed in Serbia (May 1, 2000) (fwd) Message-ID: http://www.pa.press.net/news/story/sm_2946.html Kosovars launch hunger strike A group of 46 Kosovar Albanians in Pristina have started a hunger strike in protest at the continued detention of their countrymen in Serb prisons. Meanwhile, as reported by Ananova, a group of 36 Serb prisoners in Kosovo have entered the third week of their own hunger strike in protest at their continued detention on suspicion of war crimes. The Kosovar strikers are taking the action over the 1,300 prisoners still in Serbian prisons who were moved from Kosovo to Belgrade before Nato forces arrived in the province last June. They are also pushing for news about the estimated 5,000 people missing from last year's conflict. "The strike will continue until the international community takes concrete measures towards the liberation of the prisoners," organiser Agrin Xhemajli says. Thousands of people demonstrated last week in Pristina for the release of the prisoners, blocking roads for several days and sleeping out in the roads, reports Central Europe Online. Last updated: 14:06 Monday 1st May 2000. Copyright ?? 2000 Ananova Ltd _______________________________________________________________________ http://centraleurope.com/news.php3?id=156015 Kosovars on Hunger Strike for Ethnic Albanians Jailed in Serbia PRISTINA, May 1, 2000 -- (Agence France Presse) A group of 46 Kosovar Albanians in Pristina have started a hunger strike as part of a campaign to free colleagues jailed in Serbian prisons. Their numbers have grown from the original group of 15 who started the protest at noon on Friday. "We have even had to turn some people away because they were too old or too weak," said Agrin Xhemajli, one of the hunger-strikers and the organizer of the action. "The strike will continue until the international community takes concrete measures towards the liberation of the prisoners," he added. The hunger-strikers, mainly young, are camped out on an esplanade in the center of Pristina, with mattresses and blankets. Drinking only water and smoking the occasional cigarette, they receive visits from doctors every two hours. Yugoslav troops transferred nearly 2,000 prisoners from Kosovo to Belgrade just before NATO forces arrived in the province last June after their bombing campaign against Yugoslavia. Of them, about 1,300 are still in Serbian prisons, according to the International Red Cross. The hunger-strikers are also pushing for news of the 5,000 or so missing people, many of whom are feared killed during last year's conflict in Kosovo. The International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia is still digging up victims of the violence. Xhemajli called on the UN to speed up their work and if any people were still missing, to press Belgrade for news of them. Thousands of people demonstrated last week in Pristina for the release of the prisoners in Serbia, blocking roads for several days by sleeping out in the roads. On Saturday, ethnic Albanians in the western Kosovar town of Djakovica appealed to a visiting delegation of ambassadors from the UN Security Council visiting Kosovo to take up the issue. ((c) 2000 Agence France Presse) From mentor at alb-net.com Wed May 10 16:50:29 2000 From: mentor at alb-net.com (Mentor Cana) Date: Wed May 10 16:50:29 2000 Subject: [Kcc-News] Kosova: European Agency announces new Reconstruction Programmes (EAR, Pristina, May 3, 2000) (fwd) Message-ID: http://www.seerecon.org/Kosovo/KosovoReconstruction/EAR/newprograms.htm European Agency announces new Reconstruction Programmes Pristina, May 3, 2000 The European Agency for Reconstruction (EAR) was established in February 2000. The Agency's responsibility is to manage longer-term, sustainable reconstruction and development programs in the region. The EAR is responsible for the identification, preparation and implementation of EU reconstruction projects in Kosovo. The European Agency for Reconstruction (EAR) has taken over the work of the European Commission's Task Force for the Reconstruction of Kosovo (TAFKO). The seat of the EAR is located in Thessaloniki, Greece, while its operational center is based in Pristina. The European Commission and the World Bank made a comprehensive assessment of the post-conflict situation in Kosovo and estimated an external financing requirement of $1,100 million in 2000. The priorities for intervention were discussed with the international community at the second Donors' Conference on November 17, 1999, where the EU confirmed its intention to continue to play a prominent role in the reconstruction of Kosovo. The funds available for 2000 from the EU for Kosovo amount to at least EUR 360 million. The EAR is responsible for the implementation of the reconstruction program for Kosovo. It selects the contractors, signs all necessary contracts with service providers and suppliers (done in conformity with the 1628/96 Regulation), with maximum emphasis placed on local tendering (to the extent permitted by the Regulation). The implementation of projects is carried out in close co-ordination and consultation with KFOR, other international agencies and donors which are active in the various fields of the programme and especially with UNMIK - Pillar IV (the EU Pillar, responsible for economic reconstruction) which develops the strategies on which the decisions of the EAR are based. Projects committed in 1999 by the EC Task Force and transferred to European Agency for Reconstruction: In EUR 1,000.0 (thousands) Rehabilitation of dwellings and public buildings 925.7 Support to essential public utilities 189.5 Small scale operations 265.2 ATA 5,477.4 Emergency road repairs 1,700.0 Bridge construction 1,200.0 Construction of platform Kosovo-Polje 440.0 Re-establishment of local authority 2.7 Reserve 294.8 Municipal and local investment fund 8,000.0 Municipal administration 4,823.4 Central administration 1,803.0 Registration: ID cards 2,690.3 Postal & Telecommunications 8,000.0 Energy 7,950.3 Water (major towns) 2,850.0 Micro credit scheme 1,000.0 Rural credit scheme 796.2 Enterprise management 3,904.0 Civil society 500.0 Kosovo Protection Corps 5,000.0 Feasibility studies 1,993.5 Reserve 5,000.0 Snow ploughs 1,099.5 Total: EUR 65,905.5 An additional EUR 30 million of budgetary support was targeted for energy and public utilities. On May 3, 2000, the European Agency for Reconstruction announced Programmes to be committed by the Agency in 2000:w To date there are already four sectoral programmes approved for 2000, covering the following sectors: In EUR millions Click on each sector for a programme description [ attached below ] Energy 60 Housing 55 Transport 15 Environment (Water) 10 In addition, the following programmes are being developed: Economic Development 25 Health 10 Customs between 4 and 5 TOTAL: EUR 180 million _______________________________________________________________________ http://www.seerecon.org/Kosovo/KosovoReconstruction/EAR/energy.htm Energy - Rehabilitation of the Power Sector in Kosovo Pristina, May 3, 2000 Budget: EUR 60 million (about DM 120 million) Objective: The main objectives of this programme are to: - ensure that Kosovo is able to generate enough power, in a stable and reliable manner, to meet its mid-term energy needs - devise a long-term strategy for the sector - guarantee a minimum level of power over the coming months and in particular during next winter. UNMIK 's aim is to provide a stable supply of around 650 MW during the period of peak demand. It is proposed, through the actions described below, for EAR funding to provide support that will ensure at least 450 MW of this target. The EAR is co-ordinating with UNMIK and other donors to ensure that other aspects of the sector not included under the EAR intervention - like the rehabilitation of transmission and distribution networks - are covered during 2000. Description: The programme will focus on three key areas: a) Overhaul and repairs of Kosovo B Power Station There are only two main power stations in Kosovo, which are largely responsible for providing electricity to the totality of the Province. These are Kosovo A (built in 1963) and Kosovo B (built in 1985). Kosovo B will be the mainstay of electricity generation in Kosovo in the medium term. Ultimately, an extensive overhaul of both its units is required. In practical terms, however, 2000 will see the overhaul of only one of the Units (boiler, turbines, water pipes, etc) requiring works, repairs, the provision of spare parts and equipment on a massive scale. In parallel, the provision of spare parts and equipment for the remaining unit will be provided so as to cover possible technical deficiencies until an overhaul on this second Unit is possible (which is currently planned for 2001). This programme will contribute to ensuring the reliability of power generation in Kosovo. b) Rehabilitation of the coal (lignite) mines of Mirash/Dobro Selo and Bardh/ Belacevac The Kosovo A and B power stations were designed and built to function on the natural resources provided by two open cast mines, which currently constitute the only source for the thermal power stations of Kosovo A and Kosovo B. These mines are therefore an indispensable part of the power generation system. Both mines are in a very poor condition due to bad operating practices, lack of maintenance, lack of investment, and looting. The rehabilitation of the mines is a pre-condition to investing in the overhauling of the power stations as there are no economically viable alternatives to provide fuel sources in the short- to mid-term. In the longer-term, an assessment of the future viability of these mines will have to be included in the development of a long-term energy strategy for Kosovo. The programme for 2000 will provide a package of repairs, equipment and training necessary for the rehabilitation of the coal mines. The aim is to increase the quantity, and improve the quality and reliability of the lignite supply to the power stations, as well as improve the safety of the workers in the mines. All the necessary technical assistance, training and organisational reforms required for this sector are currently catered for under an international management contract being funded by the EC. A new management contract will continue this type of work. The cost of both contracts will be met from the 1999 EC budget. Funding for necessary works to Kosovo A, so that it may continue to run as a vital back-up power station, have been pledged by German bilateral funding. EAR support for the energy sector is contingent on UNMIK's institutional reforms in the sector, which need to involve the establishment of a suitable tariff policy and the raising of sufficient revenue. The EAR contribution will complement the work of other donors in the sector, in particular, German KfW support for power generation, Swedish, Danish and Norwegian assistance with transmission and distribution. _______________________________________________________________________ http://www.seerecon.org/Kosovo/KosovoReconstruction/EAR/housing.htm Reconstruction of Housing in Kosovo Pristina, May 3, 2000 Budget: EUR 55 million (about DM 110 million) Objective: The main objectives of this programme is to assist the efforts of the Kosovar population to reconstruct about 8,000 war-damaged houses in the year 2000. This represents about 37% of the total number of houses that need to be reconstructed. UNMIK estimates the need to reconstruct around 20,000 houses in 2000 at a total cost of around $150 million. The proposed EAR contribution is the reconstruction of the worst damaged houses for a total cost of around EUR 55 million. This will benefit approximately 78,000 people. Kosovar inputs at all stages of the programme will be optimised, and there will be an equitable spread of assistance so as to include the largest number of beneficiaries, and ensure a targeting of the most vulnerable households. - Destroyed houses will be given priority as well as houses without roofs which did not benefit from the substantial 1999 TAFKO programme. - Houses, which received shelter kits in 1999-2000, which will also benefit if a household is clearly unable to carry out further works without additional assistance. As well as the main objective of providing improved housing, the operation will also aim to: - stimulate local private sector development - make the most of local resources whilst not disturbing the local markets to the detriment of local purchasing power. Description Grant assistance will be provided for the reconstruction of housing through the provision of building materials and, where necessary, labour, for the reconstruction of targeted houses. The variety of materials will be more extensive than the previous housing rehabilitation programme (of 1999) because of the level of structural and additional interior works to be carried out. The geographic targeting of municipalities for assistance is co-ordinated centrally with UNMIK, taking account of current areas of operation of the EAR (under the 1999 programme) and the plans of other donors. The targeting of villages and beneficiaries will be carried out with NGO partners in accordance with a clearly defined process that will involve UNMIK municipal administrations. The selection criteria for beneficiaries are being developed by UNMIK in concert with all the main donors with the aim of promoting a consistent approach to the selection of beneficiaries as well as of construction standards within donors' different programmes. Technical assessments and calculations of materials required for houses of selected beneficiaries will be undertaken by the NGOs' technical staff. The technical designs and material listings are to be agreed with the beneficiary. Support which may be required for transportation and labour, or works contractors for the most vulnerable, will also be provided. In acquiring the materials, a number of options are being explored to arrive at the most expedient implementation, the easiest management, and as far as possible the development of the local private sector. There are a number of possibilities, e.g. vouchers presented by the beneficiary to approved and locally-based private suppliers, the use of procurement specialists to control and monitor the suppliers - and possibly to directly procure - for some items which need to be bought in large quantities and which are not readily available in Kosovo. As regards the rehabilitation of public buildings, a degree of flexibility is maintained to evaluate UNMIK's priorities as far as the reconstruction of buildings of important public use. This will not apply to buildings under municipal responsibility, as they will shortly benefit from the Municipal and Local Investment Fund (MLIF) facility, launched under the 1999 programme. EAR actions in this sector will be co-ordinated with other donors, including a number of Member States, through the UNMIK Housing department. The aim of the department is to ensure maximum coverage of the most needy municipalities, consistency in the application of criteria by which beneficiaries are selected and of the standards to which houses are reconstructed. _______________________________________________________________________ http://www.seerecon.org/Kosovo/KosovoReconstruction/EAR/transport.htm Rehabilitation of Transport Infrastructure Pristina, May 3, 2000 Budget: EUR 15 million (about DM 30 million) Objective: The objective of this programme is - to upgrade in particular the road infrastructure of Kosovo, allowing for a more free and safer circulation of goods and people around the Province as well as to and from neighbouring countries. - the repair of at least three main routes and the reconstruction of two bridges. The success of the project is contingent on logistical issues related to the production and delivery of materials and good co-operation with UNMIK and KFOR to manage traffic circulation around the area of the works. Description: This programme aims to rehabilitate the main axes connecting Kosovo to neighbouring countries and regions as well as between its main towns and cities. There is a need to provide a comprehensive package of measures, which will include feasibility studies, technical designs and actual works and repairs on key road sections and bridges around the Province. Close co-ordination with UNMIK and KFOR will be essential in the selection of the road sections and bridges to be prioritised for this assistance. To this end, the EAR is involved in detailed discussions with UNMIK, KFOR and the main donors in the sector in establishing which donors will cover which aspects of the rehabilitation of the transport network in Kosovo. The EAR intervention will cover part of the overall investment needs in the transport area as set out in the relevant section of the UNMIK Public Sector Investment Programme. This package of measures will also include the upgrading of border crossing points and transit facilities with particular emphasis on the border crossing with FYROM (Blace). The principle donor involved in the roads sector apart from the EAR is KfW, Germany, with whom discussions are underway to determine who undertakes the rehabilitation of which routes. Other donors, including EU Member States, are focusing support in the transport sector on the airport and railway. _______________________________________________________________________ http://www.seerecon.org/Kosovo/KosovoReconstruction/EAR/water.htm Water Program in Kosovo Pristina, May 3, 2000 Budget: EUR 10 million (about DM 20 million) Objective: The main objective in this sector is to - finance short- and medium-term programmes in order to stabilise and improve the supply, operation and maintenance of water supply systems in Kosovo. - carry out short-term actions and prepare studies on medium- and longer-term measures in order to bring around a significant improvement in the way wastewater is treated and in the quality of water supplies around the Province. - ensure the supply of reliable and adequate quantities of potable water (defined by UNMIK as a minimum of 120 litres per day per person and minimum of 8 hours supply per day) in the short- and medium-term to all inhabitants currently connected to public water supply systems in the Central and Northern areas of Kosovo. The success of this objective is contingent on UNMIK and the water companies providing the necessary legal and regulatory framework for the sector and providing for all salaries and running costs. Description: The programme will provide technical assistance, equipment and materials to water supply companies in Kosovo. Initially the emphasis will be on identifying and carrying out the necessary emergency measures to ensure continuous operation and maintenance of the water supply systems and waste water systems. Once the situation is stabilised, the focus will be on the preparation, prioritisation and the implementation, in co-operation with the local water companies, of projects with regard to the rehabilitation of the existing water production facilities and water distribution systems. The EAR contribution to the sector will fit into the overall plans to rehabilitate water systems throughout the Kosovo. UNMIK is providing co-ordination in this respect to ensure that different donor actions result in full coverage of Kosovo's water supply network. The EAR programme will also be consistent with the norms and standards for the sector as developed by UNMIK. EAR interventions in the sector must be within the context of UNMIK's plans to establish a suitable tariff policy and increase revenue collection in the water sector. The programme will thus involve the drafting and start-up of a programme for institutional support. As a first step, priority will be given to assistance for starting and improving revenue generation. Carrying out of feasibility studies to revise future development and extension of water systems will also be considered. For wastewater and water sanitation, this programme will provide a package of measures for the immediate needs whilst putting together necessary studies for the longer-term needs of the sector. The short-term needs will include vehicles, equipment, small-scale infrastructure and emergency works, as well as some short-term technical assistance. These will be complemented by assistance on planning the future re-organisation of the relevant departments of the water boards, putting in place a system of revenue generation, drafting and implementing training programmes for local staff and providing a long-term strategy for the sector, focusing on priority investment needs. Other donors involved in the sector include KfW Germany (south-west and part of the central region) and the Swiss Development Corporation (south-east region). In co-ordination with these donors and with UNMIK, the EAR contribution is likely to focus on the northern and part of the central regions. ____________________________________________________________________ **************** FREE ALBIN KURTI ************** http://www.FreeAlbinKurti.com/ ____________________________________________________________________ From mentor at alb-net.com Tue May 23 19:31:09 2000 From: mentor at alb-net.com (Mentor Cana) Date: Tue, 23 May 2000 19:31:09 -0400 (EDT) Subject: [Kcc-News] Whose is "Trepca"? (AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 published 21 MAY 2000) Message-ID: http://www.aimpress.org/dyn/trae/archive/data/200005/00521-007-trae-pri.htm SUN, 21 MAY 2000 23:20:30 GMT Whose is "Trepca"? AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 The "Trepca" Combine in Mitrovica is still the pride of all Kosovars - the Albanians and Serbs alike. Even according to local analysts all problems of Mitrovica are linked to the fate of the largest lead and zinc producer in Yugoslavia and one of the largest in Europe. Current situation in "Trepca" is unclear. Irrespective of their disagreements, the Albanians, divided between two management teams, want to control the Combine without the "Serbs, who have driven the Albanians away and mercilessly exploited the national wealth of Kosovo". The Serbs, rallied around Novak Bjelic, demand of UNMIK to create conditions which would permit them to start working. The international civil administration in Kosovo has not yet dealt with this problem because it is a "complex of major problems which should be clarified by the court". The International Development Bank and the European Development Agency warned UNMIK to use caution in dealing with this problem so as not to make a wrong move, especially because "the problem of social property is not very clear and it involves many controversial issues". "Trepca" which Milosevic used as a bait for many years, was always attractive to many international companies despite the sanctions which had been introduced against Serbia and Montenegro. Attractive enough for them to disregard these sanctions. On the contrary, "Trepca" made them to violate them! Belgrade and Russia made $ 60 million worth Agreement in April 1990 in Belgrade. On the basis of that Agreement "Trepca" undertook to market 2 million worth car batteries and an additional quantity of paints, varnishes and gold and silver souvenirs on the Russian market. That same year, the American firm "Trigaduri" concluded a $ 76.3 million worth contract. It implied the export of 50 thousand tons of lead and zinc concentrates, 20 thousand tons of refined lead and 20 thousand tons of electrolysed zinc. Under the Contract, the American were supposed to pay "Trepca" $ 10 million. Even today, the greatest reactions and controversies are raised by a contract signed between "Trepca" and a Greek company "Mitilineos" the implementation of which was guaranteed by "Jugobanka" and the "Genex" company. The total value of this deal amounted to $ 519 million and "Trepca" undertook to deliver to the Greeks lead an zinc in the value of $ 250 million. In return it was to receive concentrates necessary for the production and mining equipment. In August 1997 a six-year contract was concluded with the Swedish firm "Atlas-Copk" under which the Kosovo Combine was to receive $ 20 million worth equipment. Also, claims of a French businessman, Jean-Pierre Rozan, who was the largest dealer in Mitrovica silver in the last three years, that he used to buy as much as four tons of silver per month, sound quite probable. After the arrival of NATO forces to Kosovo and the introduction of UN civil administration, Mr.Rozan came to Kosovo on July 14, 1999, and, according to him, bought 51 percent of this Combine's shares from "Jugobanka", and in September that same year signed a contract with Novak Bjelic, Trepca's Serbian Director, appointed by Belgrade. Adil Fetahu, a lawyer who for ten years followed all developments in Trepca, says that "The International Commercial Bank" owns 8 percent of Trepca's shares. UNMIK refuses to accept this forced game. There are indications that the Americans have been handed the "hot potato" called Trepca to find a way out of this vicious circle. "For the Albanians "Trepca" is a source of life and prosperity. That is very important. Although it is generally believed that the workers can return to their old jobs from which they have been forced to leave some ten years ago, I am afraid that they still have many tears to shed. I think that what you had here ten years ago was no economy. It is better to turn to the future. Together with the Kosovo people we shall try to create a modern market economy. In such an economy, as I see it, I don't believe that everyone will get his old job back", is the opinion of Mr. Jolly Dickon, UNMIK's first man for the economy, on attempts of the Albanians, as well as Serbs to return to "Trepca". Thus "Trepca" remains a major problem since it is not yet the moment to open this "Pandora's box". "Problem are great, especially those with property rights. Anyone who thinks that he owns "Trepca" will have to prove it to the Court", said Mr. Renzo Davidi to the Kosovo economists several weeks ago. However, the Albanians think differently: "Trepca" is ours irrespective of the fact that we are unable to control it in its entirety", says Burhan Kavaja, member of the Management Board appointed by trade Unions, headed by Aziz Abrashi, former long-standing Director of this Combine. He claims that none of the Combine segments are working, apart from smeltery and refinery in Zvecane which are "controlled by the Serbs". They worked before the arrival of KFOR to Kosovo and are still working", goes on Kavaja. He is convinced that in the northern part of Kosovo, which is controlled by the Serbs, it is still possible to get ore necessary for further production to Zvecane. "The Serbs are working there undisturbed and never had any problems", claims Kavaja. In the meantime, KFOR and UNMIK representatives deny Mr.Kavaja's claims. Irena Mingnason from the Development Agency says that she has no information about any production activities in Zvecane. Although Trepca's production capacities are scattered all over Kosovo, it is hard to give any assessments as to who owns it. Albanians who were fired ten years ago and have returned to their old jobs there, refuse to recognise anything that the Serbs have "left behind". There are problems in Trepca's top management too. Who is running "Trepca"? After KFOR entered Kosovo, now former, Thaqi's Provisional Government appointed Dr Safet Merovci, Professor at the Faculty of Economics, who had never worked in "Trepca", as Chairman of the Management Board. He is rejected both by the trade unionists, as well as the miners from Stari Trg, who only trust Aziz Abrashi and the old team. This can sound comical when we bear in mind the fact that neither Abrashi nor Merovci have access to all Trepca's mining and production facilities. It is understandable why they cannot go to Zvecane and Leposavic mines in the north of Kosovo. The Stari Trg mine and processing capacities in Mitrovica are under Abrashi's control, which is why Merovci "has no management rights". He "controls" the mine and flotation in Kisnica and Novo Brdo. Novak Bjelic is in power in Zvecane and in the north of Kosovo. Consequently, Trepca is divided into three parts, not on the basis of some economic rules or interests, but rather as a result of a kind of "tribe logic". This division doesn't coincide with the UNMIK's concept which is in favour of splitting "Trepca" into several smaller production units which would be capable of autonomous transformation. The largest industrial centre of Kosovo is gradually disappearing in a thick fog. What for the impossibility of people to finally start earning for living, what for political problems linked to this divided town on the banks of the Ibar river. For the time being, it seems that neither the civil nor military international factors have a solution. It is perhaps cynical, but the only good thing that has happened in this town is that after being the most polluted town in Europe, Mitrovica is now ranking lowest in Europe... AIM Pristina Ibrahim REXHEPI From mentor at alb-net.com Tue May 23 19:31:09 2000 From: mentor at alb-net.com (Mentor Cana) Date: Tue, 23 May 2000 19:31:09 -0400 (EDT) Subject: [Kcc-News] Whose is "Trepca"? (AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 published 21 MAY 2000) Message-ID: http://www.aimpress.org/dyn/trae/archive/data/200005/00521-007-trae-pri.htm SUN, 21 MAY 2000 23:20:30 GMT Whose is "Trepca"? AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 The "Trepca" Combine in Mitrovica is still the pride of all Kosovars - the Albanians and Serbs alike. Even according to local analysts all problems of Mitrovica are linked to the fate of the largest lead and zinc producer in Yugoslavia and one of the largest in Europe. Current situation in "Trepca" is unclear. Irrespective of their disagreements, the Albanians, divided between two management teams, want to control the Combine without the "Serbs, who have driven the Albanians away and mercilessly exploited the national wealth of Kosovo". The Serbs, rallied around Novak Bjelic, demand of UNMIK to create conditions which would permit them to start working. The international civil administration in Kosovo has not yet dealt with this problem because it is a "complex of major problems which should be clarified by the court". The International Development Bank and the European Development Agency warned UNMIK to use caution in dealing with this problem so as not to make a wrong move, especially because "the problem of social property is not very clear and it involves many controversial issues". "Trepca" which Milosevic used as a bait for many years, was always attractive to many international companies despite the sanctions which had been introduced against Serbia and Montenegro. Attractive enough for them to disregard these sanctions. On the contrary, "Trepca" made them to violate them! Belgrade and Russia made $ 60 million worth Agreement in April 1990 in Belgrade. On the basis of that Agreement "Trepca" undertook to market 2 million worth car batteries and an additional quantity of paints, varnishes and gold and silver souvenirs on the Russian market. That same year, the American firm "Trigaduri" concluded a $ 76.3 million worth contract. It implied the export of 50 thousand tons of lead and zinc concentrates, 20 thousand tons of refined lead and 20 thousand tons of electrolysed zinc. Under the Contract, the American were supposed to pay "Trepca" $ 10 million. Even today, the greatest reactions and controversies are raised by a contract signed between "Trepca" and a Greek company "Mitilineos" the implementation of which was guaranteed by "Jugobanka" and the "Genex" company. The total value of this deal amounted to $ 519 million and "Trepca" undertook to deliver to the Greeks lead an zinc in the value of $ 250 million. In return it was to receive concentrates necessary for the production and mining equipment. In August 1997 a six-year contract was concluded with the Swedish firm "Atlas-Copk" under which the Kosovo Combine was to receive $ 20 million worth equipment. Also, claims of a French businessman, Jean-Pierre Rozan, who was the largest dealer in Mitrovica silver in the last three years, that he used to buy as much as four tons of silver per month, sound quite probable. After the arrival of NATO forces to Kosovo and the introduction of UN civil administration, Mr.Rozan came to Kosovo on July 14, 1999, and, according to him, bought 51 percent of this Combine's shares from "Jugobanka", and in September that same year signed a contract with Novak Bjelic, Trepca's Serbian Director, appointed by Belgrade. Adil Fetahu, a lawyer who for ten years followed all developments in Trepca, says that "The International Commercial Bank" owns 8 percent of Trepca's shares. UNMIK refuses to accept this forced game. There are indications that the Americans have been handed the "hot potato" called Trepca to find a way out of this vicious circle. "For the Albanians "Trepca" is a source of life and prosperity. That is very important. Although it is generally believed that the workers can return to their old jobs from which they have been forced to leave some ten years ago, I am afraid that they still have many tears to shed. I think that what you had here ten years ago was no economy. It is better to turn to the future. Together with the Kosovo people we shall try to create a modern market economy. In such an economy, as I see it, I don't believe that everyone will get his old job back", is the opinion of Mr. Jolly Dickon, UNMIK's first man for the economy, on attempts of the Albanians, as well as Serbs to return to "Trepca". Thus "Trepca" remains a major problem since it is not yet the moment to open this "Pandora's box". "Problem are great, especially those with property rights. Anyone who thinks that he owns "Trepca" will have to prove it to the Court", said Mr. Renzo Davidi to the Kosovo economists several weeks ago. However, the Albanians think differently: "Trepca" is ours irrespective of the fact that we are unable to control it in its entirety", says Burhan Kavaja, member of the Management Board appointed by trade Unions, headed by Aziz Abrashi, former long-standing Director of this Combine. He claims that none of the Combine segments are working, apart from smeltery and refinery in Zvecane which are "controlled by the Serbs". They worked before the arrival of KFOR to Kosovo and are still working", goes on Kavaja. He is convinced that in the northern part of Kosovo, which is controlled by the Serbs, it is still possible to get ore necessary for further production to Zvecane. "The Serbs are working there undisturbed and never had any problems", claims Kavaja. In the meantime, KFOR and UNMIK representatives deny Mr.Kavaja's claims. Irena Mingnason from the Development Agency says that she has no information about any production activities in Zvecane. Although Trepca's production capacities are scattered all over Kosovo, it is hard to give any assessments as to who owns it. Albanians who were fired ten years ago and have returned to their old jobs there, refuse to recognise anything that the Serbs have "left behind". There are problems in Trepca's top management too. Who is running "Trepca"? After KFOR entered Kosovo, now former, Thaqi's Provisional Government appointed Dr Safet Merovci, Professor at the Faculty of Economics, who had never worked in "Trepca", as Chairman of the Management Board. He is rejected both by the trade unionists, as well as the miners from Stari Trg, who only trust Aziz Abrashi and the old team. This can sound comical when we bear in mind the fact that neither Abrashi nor Merovci have access to all Trepca's mining and production facilities. It is understandable why they cannot go to Zvecane and Leposavic mines in the north of Kosovo. The Stari Trg mine and processing capacities in Mitrovica are under Abrashi's control, which is why Merovci "has no management rights". He "controls" the mine and flotation in Kisnica and Novo Brdo. Novak Bjelic is in power in Zvecane and in the north of Kosovo. Consequently, Trepca is divided into three parts, not on the basis of some economic rules or interests, but rather as a result of a kind of "tribe logic". This division doesn't coincide with the UNMIK's concept which is in favour of splitting "Trepca" into several smaller production units which would be capable of autonomous transformation. The largest industrial centre of Kosovo is gradually disappearing in a thick fog. What for the impossibility of people to finally start earning for living, what for political problems linked to this divided town on the banks of the Ibar river. For the time being, it seems that neither the civil nor military international factors have a solution. It is perhaps cynical, but the only good thing that has happened in this town is that after being the most polluted town in Europe, Mitrovica is now ranking lowest in Europe... AIM Pristina Ibrahim REXHEPI From mentor at alb-net.com Tue May 23 21:13:47 2000 From: mentor at alb-net.com (Mentor Cana) Date: Tue, 23 May 2000 21:13:47 -0400 (EDT) Subject: [Kcc-News] Whose is "Trepca"? (AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 published 21 MAY 2000) (fwd) Message-ID: http://www.aimpress.org/dyn/trae/archive/data/200005/00521-007-trae-pri.htm SUN, 21 MAY 2000 23:20:30 GMT Whose is "Trepca"? AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 The "Trepca" Combine in Mitrovica is still the pride of all Kosovars - the Albanians and Serbs alike. Even according to local analysts all problems of Mitrovica are linked to the fate of the largest lead and zinc producer in Yugoslavia and one of the largest in Europe. Current situation in "Trepca" is unclear. Irrespective of their disagreements, the Albanians, divided between two management teams, want to control the Combine without the "Serbs, who have driven the Albanians away and mercilessly exploited the national wealth of Kosovo". The Serbs, rallied around Novak Bjelic, demand of UNMIK to create conditions which would permit them to start working. The international civil administration in Kosovo has not yet dealt with this problem because it is a "complex of major problems which should be clarified by the court". The International Development Bank and the European Development Agency warned UNMIK to use caution in dealing with this problem so as not to make a wrong move, especially because "the problem of social property is not very clear and it involves many controversial issues". "Trepca" which Milosevic used as a bait for many years, was always attractive to many international companies despite the sanctions which had been introduced against Serbia and Montenegro. Attractive enough for them to disregard these sanctions. On the contrary, "Trepca" made them to violate them! Belgrade and Russia made $ 60 million worth Agreement in April 1990 in Belgrade. On the basis of that Agreement "Trepca" undertook to market 2 million worth car batteries and an additional quantity of paints, varnishes and gold and silver souvenirs on the Russian market. That same year, the American firm "Trigaduri" concluded a $ 76.3 million worth contract. It implied the export of 50 thousand tons of lead and zinc concentrates, 20 thousand tons of refined lead and 20 thousand tons of electrolysed zinc. Under the Contract, the American were supposed to pay "Trepca" $ 10 million. Even today, the greatest reactions and controversies are raised by a contract signed between "Trepca" and a Greek company "Mitilineos" the implementation of which was guaranteed by "Jugobanka" and the "Genex" company. The total value of this deal amounted to $ 519 million and "Trepca" undertook to deliver to the Greeks lead an zinc in the value of $ 250 million. In return it was to receive concentrates necessary for the production and mining equipment. In August 1997 a six-year contract was concluded with the Swedish firm "Atlas-Copk" under which the Kosovo Combine was to receive $ 20 million worth equipment. Also, claims of a French businessman, Jean-Pierre Rozan, who was the largest dealer in Mitrovica silver in the last three years, that he used to buy as much as four tons of silver per month, sound quite probable. After the arrival of NATO forces to Kosovo and the introduction of UN civil administration, Mr.Rozan came to Kosovo on July 14, 1999, and, according to him, bought 51 percent of this Combine's shares from "Jugobanka", and in September that same year signed a contract with Novak Bjelic, Trepca's Serbian Director, appointed by Belgrade. Adil Fetahu, a lawyer who for ten years followed all developments in Trepca, says that "The International Commercial Bank" owns 8 percent of Trepca's shares. UNMIK refuses to accept this forced game. There are indications that the Americans have been handed the "hot potato" called Trepca to find a way out of this vicious circle. "For the Albanians "Trepca" is a source of life and prosperity. That is very important. Although it is generally believed that the workers can return to their old jobs from which they have been forced to leave some ten years ago, I am afraid that they still have many tears to shed. I think that what you had here ten years ago was no economy. It is better to turn to the future. Together with the Kosovo people we shall try to create a modern market economy. In such an economy, as I see it, I don't believe that everyone will get his old job back", is the opinion of Mr. Jolly Dickon, UNMIK's first man for the economy, on attempts of the Albanians, as well as Serbs to return to "Trepca". Thus "Trepca" remains a major problem since it is not yet the moment to open this "Pandora's box". "Problem are great, especially those with property rights. Anyone who thinks that he owns "Trepca" will have to prove it to the Court", said Mr. Renzo Davidi to the Kosovo economists several weeks ago. However, the Albanians think differently: "Trepca" is ours irrespective of the fact that we are unable to control it in its entirety", says Burhan Kavaja, member of the Management Board appointed by trade Unions, headed by Aziz Abrashi, former long-standing Director of this Combine. He claims that none of the Combine segments are working, apart from smeltery and refinery in Zvecane which are "controlled by the Serbs". They worked before the arrival of KFOR to Kosovo and are still working", goes on Kavaja. He is convinced that in the northern part of Kosovo, which is controlled by the Serbs, it is still possible to get ore necessary for further production to Zvecane. "The Serbs are working there undisturbed and never had any problems", claims Kavaja. In the meantime, KFOR and UNMIK representatives deny Mr.Kavaja's claims. Irena Mingnason from the Development Agency says that she has no information about any production activities in Zvecane. Although Trepca's production capacities are scattered all over Kosovo, it is hard to give any assessments as to who owns it. Albanians who were fired ten years ago and have returned to their old jobs there, refuse to recognise anything that the Serbs have "left behind". There are problems in Trepca's top management too. Who is running "Trepca"? After KFOR entered Kosovo, now former, Thaqi's Provisional Government appointed Dr Safet Merovci, Professor at the Faculty of Economics, who had never worked in "Trepca", as Chairman of the Management Board. He is rejected both by the trade unionists, as well as the miners from Stari Trg, who only trust Aziz Abrashi and the old team. This can sound comical when we bear in mind the fact that neither Abrashi nor Merovci have access to all Trepca's mining and production facilities. It is understandable why they cannot go to Zvecane and Leposavic mines in the north of Kosovo. The Stari Trg mine and processing capacities in Mitrovica are under Abrashi's control, which is why Merovci "has no management rights". He "controls" the mine and flotation in Kisnica and Novo Brdo. Novak Bjelic is in power in Zvecane and in the north of Kosovo. Consequently, Trepca is divided into three parts, not on the basis of some economic rules or interests, but rather as a result of a kind of "tribe logic". This division doesn't coincide with the UNMIK's concept which is in favour of splitting "Trepca" into several smaller production units which would be capable of autonomous transformation. The largest industrial centre of Kosovo is gradually disappearing in a thick fog. What for the impossibility of people to finally start earning for living, what for political problems linked to this divided town on the banks of the Ibar river. For the time being, it seems that neither the civil nor military international factors have a solution. It is perhaps cynical, but the only good thing that has happened in this town is that after being the most polluted town in Europe, Mitrovica is now ranking lowest in Europe... AIM Pristina Ibrahim REXHEPI From mentor at alb-net.com Tue May 23 21:13:47 2000 From: mentor at alb-net.com (Mentor Cana) Date: Tue, 23 May 2000 21:13:47 -0400 (EDT) Subject: [Kcc-News] Whose is "Trepca"? (AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 published 21 MAY 2000) (fwd) Message-ID: http://www.aimpress.org/dyn/trae/archive/data/200005/00521-007-trae-pri.htm SUN, 21 MAY 2000 23:20:30 GMT Whose is "Trepca"? AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 The "Trepca" Combine in Mitrovica is still the pride of all Kosovars - the Albanians and Serbs alike. Even according to local analysts all problems of Mitrovica are linked to the fate of the largest lead and zinc producer in Yugoslavia and one of the largest in Europe. Current situation in "Trepca" is unclear. Irrespective of their disagreements, the Albanians, divided between two management teams, want to control the Combine without the "Serbs, who have driven the Albanians away and mercilessly exploited the national wealth of Kosovo". The Serbs, rallied around Novak Bjelic, demand of UNMIK to create conditions which would permit them to start working. The international civil administration in Kosovo has not yet dealt with this problem because it is a "complex of major problems which should be clarified by the court". The International Development Bank and the European Development Agency warned UNMIK to use caution in dealing with this problem so as not to make a wrong move, especially because "the problem of social property is not very clear and it involves many controversial issues". "Trepca" which Milosevic used as a bait for many years, was always attractive to many international companies despite the sanctions which had been introduced against Serbia and Montenegro. Attractive enough for them to disregard these sanctions. On the contrary, "Trepca" made them to violate them! Belgrade and Russia made $ 60 million worth Agreement in April 1990 in Belgrade. On the basis of that Agreement "Trepca" undertook to market 2 million worth car batteries and an additional quantity of paints, varnishes and gold and silver souvenirs on the Russian market. That same year, the American firm "Trigaduri" concluded a $ 76.3 million worth contract. It implied the export of 50 thousand tons of lead and zinc concentrates, 20 thousand tons of refined lead and 20 thousand tons of electrolysed zinc. Under the Contract, the American were supposed to pay "Trepca" $ 10 million. Even today, the greatest reactions and controversies are raised by a contract signed between "Trepca" and a Greek company "Mitilineos" the implementation of which was guaranteed by "Jugobanka" and the "Genex" company. The total value of this deal amounted to $ 519 million and "Trepca" undertook to deliver to the Greeks lead an zinc in the value of $ 250 million. In return it was to receive concentrates necessary for the production and mining equipment. In August 1997 a six-year contract was concluded with the Swedish firm "Atlas-Copk" under which the Kosovo Combine was to receive $ 20 million worth equipment. Also, claims of a French businessman, Jean-Pierre Rozan, who was the largest dealer in Mitrovica silver in the last three years, that he used to buy as much as four tons of silver per month, sound quite probable. After the arrival of NATO forces to Kosovo and the introduction of UN civil administration, Mr.Rozan came to Kosovo on July 14, 1999, and, according to him, bought 51 percent of this Combine's shares from "Jugobanka", and in September that same year signed a contract with Novak Bjelic, Trepca's Serbian Director, appointed by Belgrade. Adil Fetahu, a lawyer who for ten years followed all developments in Trepca, says that "The International Commercial Bank" owns 8 percent of Trepca's shares. UNMIK refuses to accept this forced game. There are indications that the Americans have been handed the "hot potato" called Trepca to find a way out of this vicious circle. "For the Albanians "Trepca" is a source of life and prosperity. That is very important. Although it is generally believed that the workers can return to their old jobs from which they have been forced to leave some ten years ago, I am afraid that they still have many tears to shed. I think that what you had here ten years ago was no economy. It is better to turn to the future. Together with the Kosovo people we shall try to create a modern market economy. In such an economy, as I see it, I don't believe that everyone will get his old job back", is the opinion of Mr. Jolly Dickon, UNMIK's first man for the economy, on attempts of the Albanians, as well as Serbs to return to "Trepca". Thus "Trepca" remains a major problem since it is not yet the moment to open this "Pandora's box". "Problem are great, especially those with property rights. Anyone who thinks that he owns "Trepca" will have to prove it to the Court", said Mr. Renzo Davidi to the Kosovo economists several weeks ago. However, the Albanians think differently: "Trepca" is ours irrespective of the fact that we are unable to control it in its entirety", says Burhan Kavaja, member of the Management Board appointed by trade Unions, headed by Aziz Abrashi, former long-standing Director of this Combine. He claims that none of the Combine segments are working, apart from smeltery and refinery in Zvecane which are "controlled by the Serbs". They worked before the arrival of KFOR to Kosovo and are still working", goes on Kavaja. He is convinced that in the northern part of Kosovo, which is controlled by the Serbs, it is still possible to get ore necessary for further production to Zvecane. "The Serbs are working there undisturbed and never had any problems", claims Kavaja. In the meantime, KFOR and UNMIK representatives deny Mr.Kavaja's claims. Irena Mingnason from the Development Agency says that she has no information about any production activities in Zvecane. Although Trepca's production capacities are scattered all over Kosovo, it is hard to give any assessments as to who owns it. Albanians who were fired ten years ago and have returned to their old jobs there, refuse to recognise anything that the Serbs have "left behind". There are problems in Trepca's top management too. Who is running "Trepca"? After KFOR entered Kosovo, now former, Thaqi's Provisional Government appointed Dr Safet Merovci, Professor at the Faculty of Economics, who had never worked in "Trepca", as Chairman of the Management Board. He is rejected both by the trade unionists, as well as the miners from Stari Trg, who only trust Aziz Abrashi and the old team. This can sound comical when we bear in mind the fact that neither Abrashi nor Merovci have access to all Trepca's mining and production facilities. It is understandable why they cannot go to Zvecane and Leposavic mines in the north of Kosovo. The Stari Trg mine and processing capacities in Mitrovica are under Abrashi's control, which is why Merovci "has no management rights". He "controls" the mine and flotation in Kisnica and Novo Brdo. Novak Bjelic is in power in Zvecane and in the north of Kosovo. Consequently, Trepca is divided into three parts, not on the basis of some economic rules or interests, but rather as a result of a kind of "tribe logic". This division doesn't coincide with the UNMIK's concept which is in favour of splitting "Trepca" into several smaller production units which would be capable of autonomous transformation. The largest industrial centre of Kosovo is gradually disappearing in a thick fog. What for the impossibility of people to finally start earning for living, what for political problems linked to this divided town on the banks of the Ibar river. For the time being, it seems that neither the civil nor military international factors have a solution. It is perhaps cynical, but the only good thing that has happened in this town is that after being the most polluted town in Europe, Mitrovica is now ranking lowest in Europe... AIM Pristina Ibrahim REXHEPI From mentor at alb-net.com Tue May 23 22:04:11 2000 From: mentor at alb-net.com (Mentor Cana) Date: Tue, 23 May 2000 22:04:11 -0400 (EDT) Subject: [Kcc-News] Whose is "Trepca"? (AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 published 21 MAY 2000) (fwd) Message-ID: http://www.aimpress.org/dyn/trae/archive/data/200005/00521-007-trae-pri.htm SUN, 21 MAY 2000 23:20:30 GMT Whose is "Trepca"? AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 The "Trepca" Combine in Mitrovica is still the pride of all Kosovars - the Albanians and Serbs alike. Even according to local analysts all problems of Mitrovica are linked to the fate of the largest lead and zinc producer in Yugoslavia and one of the largest in Europe. Current situation in "Trepca" is unclear. Irrespective of their disagreements, the Albanians, divided between two management teams, want to control the Combine without the "Serbs, who have driven the Albanians away and mercilessly exploited the national wealth of Kosovo". The Serbs, rallied around Novak Bjelic, demand of UNMIK to create conditions which would permit them to start working. The international civil administration in Kosovo has not yet dealt with this problem because it is a "complex of major problems which should be clarified by the court". The International Development Bank and the European Development Agency warned UNMIK to use caution in dealing with this problem so as not to make a wrong move, especially because "the problem of social property is not very clear and it involves many controversial issues". "Trepca" which Milosevic used as a bait for many years, was always attractive to many international companies despite the sanctions which had been introduced against Serbia and Montenegro. Attractive enough for them to disregard these sanctions. On the contrary, "Trepca" made them to violate them! Belgrade and Russia made $ 60 million worth Agreement in April 1990 in Belgrade. On the basis of that Agreement "Trepca" undertook to market 2 million worth car batteries and an additional quantity of paints, varnishes and gold and silver souvenirs on the Russian market. That same year, the American firm "Trigaduri" concluded a $ 76.3 million worth contract. It implied the export of 50 thousand tons of lead and zinc concentrates, 20 thousand tons of refined lead and 20 thousand tons of electrolysed zinc. Under the Contract, the American were supposed to pay "Trepca" $ 10 million. Even today, the greatest reactions and controversies are raised by a contract signed between "Trepca" and a Greek company "Mitilineos" the implementation of which was guaranteed by "Jugobanka" and the "Genex" company. The total value of this deal amounted to $ 519 million and "Trepca" undertook to deliver to the Greeks lead an zinc in the value of $ 250 million. In return it was to receive concentrates necessary for the production and mining equipment. In August 1997 a six-year contract was concluded with the Swedish firm "Atlas-Copk" under which the Kosovo Combine was to receive $ 20 million worth equipment. Also, claims of a French businessman, Jean-Pierre Rozan, who was the largest dealer in Mitrovica silver in the last three years, that he used to buy as much as four tons of silver per month, sound quite probable. After the arrival of NATO forces to Kosovo and the introduction of UN civil administration, Mr.Rozan came to Kosovo on July 14, 1999, and, according to him, bought 51 percent of this Combine's shares from "Jugobanka", and in September that same year signed a contract with Novak Bjelic, Trepca's Serbian Director, appointed by Belgrade. Adil Fetahu, a lawyer who for ten years followed all developments in Trepca, says that "The International Commercial Bank" owns 8 percent of Trepca's shares. UNMIK refuses to accept this forced game. There are indications that the Americans have been handed the "hot potato" called Trepca to find a way out of this vicious circle. "For the Albanians "Trepca" is a source of life and prosperity. That is very important. Although it is generally believed that the workers can return to their old jobs from which they have been forced to leave some ten years ago, I am afraid that they still have many tears to shed. I think that what you had here ten years ago was no economy. It is better to turn to the future. Together with the Kosovo people we shall try to create a modern market economy. In such an economy, as I see it, I don't believe that everyone will get his old job back", is the opinion of Mr. Jolly Dickon, UNMIK's first man for the economy, on attempts of the Albanians, as well as Serbs to return to "Trepca". Thus "Trepca" remains a major problem since it is not yet the moment to open this "Pandora's box". "Problem are great, especially those with property rights. Anyone who thinks that he owns "Trepca" will have to prove it to the Court", said Mr. Renzo Davidi to the Kosovo economists several weeks ago. However, the Albanians think differently: "Trepca" is ours irrespective of the fact that we are unable to control it in its entirety", says Burhan Kavaja, member of the Management Board appointed by trade Unions, headed by Aziz Abrashi, former long-standing Director of this Combine. He claims that none of the Combine segments are working, apart from smeltery and refinery in Zvecane which are "controlled by the Serbs". They worked before the arrival of KFOR to Kosovo and are still working", goes on Kavaja. He is convinced that in the northern part of Kosovo, which is controlled by the Serbs, it is still possible to get ore necessary for further production to Zvecane. "The Serbs are working there undisturbed and never had any problems", claims Kavaja. In the meantime, KFOR and UNMIK representatives deny Mr.Kavaja's claims. Irena Mingnason from the Development Agency says that she has no information about any production activities in Zvecane. Although Trepca's production capacities are scattered all over Kosovo, it is hard to give any assessments as to who owns it. Albanians who were fired ten years ago and have returned to their old jobs there, refuse to recognise anything that the Serbs have "left behind". There are problems in Trepca's top management too. Who is running "Trepca"? After KFOR entered Kosovo, now former, Thaqi's Provisional Government appointed Dr Safet Merovci, Professor at the Faculty of Economics, who had never worked in "Trepca", as Chairman of the Management Board. He is rejected both by the trade unionists, as well as the miners from Stari Trg, who only trust Aziz Abrashi and the old team. This can sound comical when we bear in mind the fact that neither Abrashi nor Merovci have access to all Trepca's mining and production facilities. It is understandable why they cannot go to Zvecane and Leposavic mines in the north of Kosovo. The Stari Trg mine and processing capacities in Mitrovica are under Abrashi's control, which is why Merovci "has no management rights". He "controls" the mine and flotation in Kisnica and Novo Brdo. Novak Bjelic is in power in Zvecane and in the north of Kosovo. Consequently, Trepca is divided into three parts, not on the basis of some economic rules or interests, but rather as a result of a kind of "tribe logic". This division doesn't coincide with the UNMIK's concept which is in favour of splitting "Trepca" into several smaller production units which would be capable of autonomous transformation. The largest industrial centre of Kosovo is gradually disappearing in a thick fog. What for the impossibility of people to finally start earning for living, what for political problems linked to this divided town on the banks of the Ibar river. For the time being, it seems that neither the civil nor military international factors have a solution. It is perhaps cynical, but the only good thing that has happened in this town is that after being the most polluted town in Europe, Mitrovica is now ranking lowest in Europe... AIM Pristina Ibrahim REXHEPI From mentor at alb-net.com Tue May 23 22:04:11 2000 From: mentor at alb-net.com (Mentor Cana) Date: Tue, 23 May 2000 22:04:11 -0400 (EDT) Subject: [Kcc-News] Whose is "Trepca"? (AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 published 21 MAY 2000) (fwd) Message-ID: http://www.aimpress.org/dyn/trae/archive/data/200005/00521-007-trae-pri.htm SUN, 21 MAY 2000 23:20:30 GMT Whose is "Trepca"? AIM Pristina, April 8, 2000 The "Trepca" Combine in Mitrovica is still the pride of all Kosovars - the Albanians and Serbs alike. Even according to local analysts all problems of Mitrovica are linked to the fate of the largest lead and zinc producer in Yugoslavia and one of the largest in Europe. Current situation in "Trepca" is unclear. Irrespective of their disagreements, the Albanians, divided between two management teams, want to control the Combine without the "Serbs, who have driven the Albanians away and mercilessly exploited the national wealth of Kosovo". The Serbs, rallied around Novak Bjelic, demand of UNMIK to create conditions which would permit them to start working. The international civil administration in Kosovo has not yet dealt with this problem because it is a "complex of major problems which should be clarified by the court". The International Development Bank and the European Development Agency warned UNMIK to use caution in dealing with this problem so as not to make a wrong move, especially because "the problem of social property is not very clear and it involves many controversial issues". "Trepca" which Milosevic used as a bait for many years, was always attractive to many international companies despite the sanctions which had been introduced against Serbia and Montenegro. Attractive enough for them to disregard these sanctions. On the contrary, "Trepca" made them to violate them! Belgrade and Russia made $ 60 million worth Agreement in April 1990 in Belgrade. On the basis of that Agreement "Trepca" undertook to market 2 million worth car batteries and an additional quantity of paints, varnishes and gold and silver souvenirs on the Russian market. That same year, the American firm "Trigaduri" concluded a $ 76.3 million worth contract. It implied the export of 50 thousand tons of lead and zinc concentrates, 20 thousand tons of refined lead and 20 thousand tons of electrolysed zinc. Under the Contract, the American were supposed to pay "Trepca" $ 10 million. Even today, the greatest reactions and controversies are raised by a contract signed between "Trepca" and a Greek company "Mitilineos" the implementation of which was guaranteed by "Jugobanka" and the "Genex" company. The total value of this deal amounted to $ 519 million and "Trepca" undertook to deliver to the Greeks lead an zinc in the value of $ 250 million. In return it was to receive concentrates necessary for the production and mining equipment. In August 1997 a six-year contract was concluded with the Swedish firm "Atlas-Copk" under which the Kosovo Combine was to receive $ 20 million worth equipment. Also, claims of a French businessman, Jean-Pierre Rozan, who was the largest dealer in Mitrovica silver in the last three years, that he used to buy as much as four tons of silver per month, sound quite probable. After the arrival of NATO forces to Kosovo and the introduction of UN civil administration, Mr.Rozan came to Kosovo on July 14, 1999, and, according to him, bought 51 percent of this Combine's shares from "Jugobanka", and in September that same year signed a contract with Novak Bjelic, Trepca's Serbian Director, appointed by Belgrade. Adil Fetahu, a lawyer who for ten years followed all developments in Trepca, says that "The International Commercial Bank" owns 8 percent of Trepca's shares. UNMIK refuses to accept this forced game. There are indications that the Americans have been handed the "hot potato" called Trepca to find a way out of this vicious circle. "For the Albanians "Trepca" is a source of life and prosperity. That is very important. Although it is generally believed that the workers can return to their old jobs from which they have been forced to leave some ten years ago, I am afraid that they still have many tears to shed. I think that what you had here ten years ago was no economy. It is better to turn to the future. Together with the Kosovo people we shall try to create a modern market economy. In such an economy, as I see it, I don't believe that everyone will get his old job back", is the opinion of Mr. Jolly Dickon, UNMIK's first man for the economy, on attempts of the Albanians, as well as Serbs to return to "Trepca". Thus "Trepca" remains a major problem since it is not yet the moment to open this "Pandora's box". "Problem are great, especially those with property rights. Anyone who thinks that he owns "Trepca" will have to prove it to the Court", said Mr. Renzo Davidi to the Kosovo economists several weeks ago. However, the Albanians think differently: "Trepca" is ours irrespective of the fact that we are unable to control it in its entirety", says Burhan Kavaja, member of the Management Board appointed by trade Unions, headed by Aziz Abrashi, former long-standing Director of this Combine. He claims that none of the Combine segments are working, apart from smeltery and refinery in Zvecane which are "controlled by the Serbs". They worked before the arrival of KFOR to Kosovo and are still working", goes on Kavaja. He is convinced that in the northern part of Kosovo, which is controlled by the Serbs, it is still possible to get ore necessary for further production to Zvecane. "The Serbs are working there undisturbed and never had any problems", claims Kavaja. In the meantime, KFOR and UNMIK representatives deny Mr.Kavaja's claims. Irena Mingnason from the Development Agency says that she has no information about any production activities in Zvecane. Although Trepca's production capacities are scattered all over Kosovo, it is hard to give any assessments as to who owns it. Albanians who were fired ten years ago and have returned to their old jobs there, refuse to recognise anything that the Serbs have "left behind". There are problems in Trepca's top management too. Who is running "Trepca"? After KFOR entered Kosovo, now former, Thaqi's Provisional Government appointed Dr Safet Merovci, Professor at the Faculty of Economics, who had never worked in "Trepca", as Chairman of the Management Board. He is rejected both by the trade unionists, as well as the miners from Stari Trg, who only trust Aziz Abrashi and the old team. This can sound comical when we bear in mind the fact that neither Abrashi nor Merovci have access to all Trepca's mining and production facilities. It is understandable why they cannot go to Zvecane and Leposavic mines in the north of Kosovo. The Stari Trg mine and processing capacities in Mitrovica are under Abrashi's control, which is why Merovci "has no management rights". He "controls" the mine and flotation in Kisnica and Novo Brdo. Novak Bjelic is in power in Zvecane and in the north of Kosovo. Consequently, Trepca is divided into three parts, not on the basis of some economic rules or interests, but rather as a result of a kind of "tribe logic". This division doesn't coincide with the UNMIK's concept which is in favour of splitting "Trepca" into several smaller production units which would be capable of autonomous transformation. The largest industrial centre of Kosovo is gradually disappearing in a thick fog. What for the impossibility of people to finally start earning for living, what for political problems linked to this divided town on the banks of the Ibar river. For the time being, it seems that neither the civil nor military international factors have a solution. It is perhaps cynical, but the only good thing that has happened in this town is that after being the most polluted town in Europe, Mitrovica is now ranking lowest in Europe... AIM Pristina Ibrahim REXHEPI From mentor at alb-net.com Thu May 25 11:45:02 2000 From: mentor at alb-net.com (Mentor Cana) Date: Thu, 25 May 2000 11:45:02 -0400 (EDT) Subject: [Kcc-News] CDHRF-QUARTERLY REPORT ON HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS (fwd) Message-ID: COUNCIL FOR THE DEFENCE OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS K?SHILLI P?R MBROJTJEN E T? DREJTAVE E T? LIRIVE T? NJERIUT Rr. Zdrini, 38000 Prishtin?-Kosov?; tel. 381 (0) 549006 fax: 381 (0) 38 549007 E-mail:kmdlnj at albanian.com cdhrf at albanian.com http://www.albanian.com/kmdlnj QUARTERLY REPORT ON THE VIOLATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS IN KOSOVA IN THE COURSE OF JANUARY - MARCH 2000 During the first quarterly period of the year 2000, the situation of human rights and freedoms in Kosova was very grave. The cycle of violence spread with the killing of citizens of all nationalities. Council for the Defence of Human Rights and Freedoms based in Prishtina has registered 108 killings (59 Albanians killed in Kosova and 8 Albanians killed in Presheva-Bujanoc, 17 Serbs, 5 Bosniacs, 17 are unidentified, a Russian soldier and a foreigner, whose nationality is unknown), a murder attempt towards a Serb and 9 murder attempts towards Albanians, 47 cases of woundings (7 in mine accidents), 1 case of rape, 3 cases of kidnapping, 8 cases of disappearance, 131 cases of physical ill-treatment, etc. The main source of insecurity and human rights violations remains Mitrovica, which continues to be the epicentre of negative developments and a negative sample for all mixed areas. In Mitrovica, between 1 and 13 February, 12 Albanian civilians were killed (5 women and 2 children), 40 people were wounded and tens were physically ill-treated. KFOR troops arrested 58 Albanians and a Serb. Even though the French troops had claimed that the late Avni Haradinaj had been a sniper, it was confirmed that he was an unarmed civilian. According to the information of the CDHRF, groups of Serbs have expelled 1500 Albanians from their flats and houses in the northern part of Mitrovica. All this happened in the presence of KFOR troops and international police. During the period of January ? March 2000, 430 cases of human rights violations were registered in the northern part of the town. KILLINGS UNDER UNKNOWN CIRCUMSTANCES ? A COMMON PHENOMENON IN KOSOVA During this period, killings under unknown circumstances were very common. Council for the Defence of Human Rights and Freedoms based in Prishtina has registered 80 such cases. One of the gravest cases was that of the Skenderi family (Bosniac family). On 11 January, in the ?Tusus? quarter in Prizren, 4 members of this family ? spouses Sezair (52) and Anife (50), their daughter Ardiana (21) and Sezair?s mother Gjyla (78), were killed by unknown persons. Council for the Defence of Human Rights and Freedoms has condemned this act of violence. CDHRF in Prishtina is very concerned because of the high number of killings and has condemned these acts and at the same time has appealed to the international community to urgently act in order to prevent the escalation of violence. It has also appealed to the citizens of Kosova to restraint themselves pointing out that every citizen must contribute to the prevention of crime and to bring to justice those responsible for the crimes. SEXUAL ABUSE During this period, the violence against women in forms of harassment, threats, kidnapping attempt, etc. was evident. A very concerning phenomenon is the trafficking of women and forcing them into prostitution. This has become a business. The gravest case of sexual abuse, which resulted in the violent death of the victim, happened in the vicinity of Vitia. On 13 January, the corpse of Merita Hamdi Shabiu (12) from Deb?llde was found in the vicinity of Vitia. She was reported missing a day before. Prior to being killed, she was raped. Sergeant Frank J. Ronghi (36), a member of KFOR American troops, was accused for this crime. He was kept under arrest in the prison of the American camp Bondsteel in Sojeva (Ferizaj) and later on taken to the American military base in Manheim (Germany). There he will be under investigation. THE SERIES OF TRIALS AND CONVICTIONS AGAINST THE ALBANIANS GOES ON IN SERBIAN COURTS The series of trials and convictions against the Albanians goes on. The convictions range from 10 months to 20 years of imprisonment. According to the information available to the CDHRF, during the very same period, 50 Albanians were convicted by Serbian courts. One of the convicted is Albin Kurti. He was convicted to 15 years of imprisonment. Even those who are on the run or are dead are being convicted. One of the Albanian lawyers called Hysni Byty?i, as well as the Serbian ones, claim that during the investigation, the statements from the accused were taken by the use of violence. The legal proceedings were violated during the trials. The best evidence for the violation of legal norms is conviction of the physician Flora Brovina to 12 years of imprisonment as well as other women and the underaged for ?terrorism?. Many local and international non-governmental organisations on human rights as well as governments and well-known personalities reacted against such violations. All of them demanded the release of the prisoners. According to the sources of the Ministry of Justice of Serbia, about 2100 Albanians from Kosova were in prisons of Serbia last year. All these Albanians are charged for penal acts of ?hostility? and ?terrorism?. They are in the prisons of Nish, Leskovc, Vranje, Prokuple, Zaje?ar, Pozharevc, Kraleva and Mitrovica e Sremit. Council for the Defence of Human Rights and Freedoms based in Prishtina registered over 1550 Albanians that currently are in the prisons of Serbia. About 300 Albanians were released during this quarterly period. The released stated that their families had paid sums of money between 5000 and 120000 DM. MASS GRAVES ? IDENTIFICATIONS As the Hague Tribunal investigators interrupted their activity due to the cold weather, the CDHRF activists made their efforts to identify mass graves and the personal things of the victims were exhibited in public places. Many people, who had been considered as unaccounted for, were identified in this way. THE SITUATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS IN THE MUNICIPALITIES OF PRESHEVA, BUJANOC AND MEDVEGJA The situation in this region continues to be very grave and tense. On 4 and 5 January, the trial against Riza Halimi, mayor of the municipality of Presheva, and Sevdail Hyseni, a writer and a human rights activist, went on. The situation is getting worse due to the frequent interventions of police forces, killings, arrests, raids, kidnappings, lootings and control in the demilitarised area. The interborder movement is prevented by policemen at their checkpoints, who are ill-treating and looting passers-by. According to the Sub-CDHRF in Bujanoc, during this period, 8 Albanians were killed in different ways. After these incidents, thousands of inhabitants fled. They were sheltered in Gjilan, Ferizaj, Vitia and Kamenica. Drivers of lorries, buses and other vehicles are being looted at the police checkpoints set up on the border with Kosova. They are forced to give money, gas or food to Serbian policemen in order not to have problems while driving through the checkpoint. In other cases, they cannot drive through without being insulted on a national and family basis and ill-treated. A common phenomenon is setting up the explosive devices in certain places. Human rights are violated in these three municipalities. The gravest cases were as follows: -killing of the brothers Isa and Shaip Saqipi by the Serbian police on 26 January; -kidnapping of Nebi Nuhiu, owner of the ?Neza? Enterprise, on 2 February by unknown persons; -setting up explosive device in the flat of Sevdail Hyseni, a writer and human rights activist, in Bujanoc on 10 February; -killing of Osman Sylejmani from the village of T?rnoc on 2 March; -killing of Bahri Musliu from Verban (Bujanoc). He was killed in the vicinity of the Serbian village of Levosoja. MINORITIES According to the available data to the CDHRF, during the quarterly period, there are no signs to prove that the situation of minority rights has evolved in a positive direction compared to the last few months of 1999. This counts mainly for the members of the Serbian, Bosniac, Goran and Roma communities, whereas Hashkali community were not subjected to any kind of violence. The Albanians, who live in the regions where they are minorities, were subjected to all categories of violence. The problems, which minorities face are as follows: -limited freedom of movement -threats -house and flat usurpations -burning of the houses of minorities -due to insecurity, they do not enjoy the rights to education, medical care and employment. One of the gravest cases of attacks against minorities is the case when in ?ubrel, the UNHCR bus was attacked. Two elderly Serbs were killed and several others were wounded. Below are given some of the cases: On 18 January 2000, Gjorgjeviq Danillo (43) from Zaje?ar (Serbia) was killed under unknown circumstances. The killing took place in the municipality of Gjilan. On 2 February 2000, Jovanoviq Budimir (65) and Rajkoviq Pllana (53) were killed in ?ubrel. The corpse of Gjukiq Zoran (52) from Suhadoll (Mitrovica) was found at the place called ?Kroi i Mbretit? on 14.03.2000. On 23.03.2000, Vlahoviq Milka (73) from Prishtina was killed in Prishtina. According to the available data to the CDHRF, 21 members of minorities were killed. All killings happened under unknown circumstances. ATTACKS, ILL-TREATMENTS, PROVOCATIONS Since the arrival of KFOR troops, the Sub-CDHRF in Mitrovica informs on daily basis about beatings and ill-treatments of the Albanians in the northern part of the town, which is controlled by the Serbs for the time being. During the very same period, the Sub-CDHRF in Mitrovica registered 56 cases of ill-treatment, 8 of whom suffered heavy injuries, 105 psychological ill-treatments, 9 shelled houses, 9 burned houses, 3 usurpations, 54 evictions of the Albanian families, etc. According to the eyewitnesses, Serbian paramilitaries move freely in the northern part of the town. Members of peacekeeping forces did not prevent violence and sometimes they participate in the ill-treatment towards the Albanian population. Many cases speak for themselves on what was happening in Mitrovica, Gra?anica, Obiliq, Viti, Kamenica and Sht?rpca as well as all Serbian enclaves, which have become source of conflicts. THE MOST ILLUSTRATIVE CASES Apart from many cases of ill-treatments, attacks, blasts in Mitrovica, similar cases took place in Istog, Sht?rpca, Fush? Kosova, Viti, Gjilan, Obiliq, Podujeva, Lipjan, Mitrovica, Prishtina, etc. In all these places, CDHRF registered different cases of human rights violations. On 2 January, Serbian paramilitaries in Gra?anica attacked the ?P?rparimi? bus from Kamenica. During the recent holidays, the ?Alpescommerce? and ?Kosovatrans? buses travelling between Gjilan and Prishtina were attacked as well. Considerable material damage was caused. On 3 January, at about noon, a group of Serbs beat and physically Ramiz Xheladin Hoti (39) and his sister Naxhije (41). The incident occurred in the vicinity of the place called Polet, in the ?Ibri? quarter, in the northern part of the town. Ramiz suffered heavy injuries. During the evening hours, Serbian snipers from the northern part of the town opened fire towards the southern part of Mitrovica. Such cases of violence in Mitrovica occurred during the month of January. On 7 January, at about 14.00, in Kishnica Serbs blocked the road Prishtina-Gjilan and threw stones to the Albanian cars and bus in the presence of KFOR troops. The bus and the cars could pass with the help of KFOR troops. While driving through Gra?anica, Serbs chanted slogans and provoked Albanians. Some of them attempted to attack an elderly wearing a white turf, but were prevented by KFOR. Some Albanian youngsters got off the bus to protect the man and afterwards started to exchange stones and bottles with Serbs. KFOR troops prevented further escalation. On 24 January, in Berivojca (Kamenica), local Serbs attacked and ill-treated passers-by, among them Fadil Kovani from Koretin (Kamenica) in the presence of KFOR Russian soldiers. During the very same period, there were KFOR and UNMIK interventions in some Albanian villages and houses all over Kosova. Raids, arrests and ill-treatments were reported. Such interventions occurred in Malisheva, Gjakova, Mitrovica, Prishtina, Kamenica, Viti, Fush? Kosova, Suhareka, Sk?nderaj, Lipjan, De?an and Gllogoc. On 24 February, three underaged Albanians attacked a Serbian old woman in Fush? Kosova. Later on, they were arrested by Norwegian soldiers. On 4 February, at about 22.30 in Mu?ibaba, a village on the border with Serbia, 13 armed Serbian policemen in black opened fire towards the houses of this village. On 3 March, in the evening, unknown persons threw a hand grenade at the house of Jovan Karaxhiq in Kishnica. On 11 March, in Gotovusha, a large group of Serbs attacked 30 Albanians, who were visiting their houses in Biti e Poshtme under the escort of KFOR. The Albanians claimed that KFOR Polish and Ukrainian soldiers did not react at all. On 11 March, in Fush? Kosova, there was an attempt for burning the house of a Serb, but the KFOR fire brigade managed to put the fire out. On 25 March, in the buffer zone on the border with Serbia, a tank and an armoured car of the Yugoslav Army entered the region of Orllan. On 30 March, a Serbian police jeep entered the region of Merdar. Afterwards, British soldiers intervened and warned to react if the security of Kosova is threatened and the Military Technical Agreement of Kumanova is violated. FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE SITUATION The following factors affect the situation: -3500 unaccounted for, of whom 400 are members of minorities and 3100 are Albanians -1500 Albanians kept as hostages in the prisons of Serbia -rigged political trials against the Albanians -escalation of violence towards the Albanians in the municipalities of Bujanoc, Medvegja and Presheva -institutional vacuum -non-efficiency of the UNMIK police and the exclusion of the local police -unemployment -the refusal of Serbs to cooperate with UNMIK and the Albanians -usurpations of flats, houses and business premises of minorities -the denial of the rights of pensioners -the insufficient engagement for the rehabilitation of sexually abused women, war invalids and orphans -the insufficient engagement of the Albanian factor in human rights protection in general and minorities in particular -the announcement of the repatriation of refugees from the Western Countries. CDHRF RECOMMENDATIONS To the international community: -to engage itself in the release of the Albanian hostages -to ensure information on the missing people -to intervene with the western countries to repatriate refugees in a selective way -to form functional institutions -to speed up the reconstruction process -to authorise the local police -to deal with the endangered social categories -to firmly fight corruption and crime To the Albanian factor: -to help in ensuring information on the missing people -to engage more for the release of the Albanian hostages -to pay more importance to the respect of human rights -to engage more for the protection of the rights of minorities -fight corruption and crime through legal mechanisms To minorities: -to help in ensuring information on the missing people -to cooperate with UNMIK and the Albanians -to condemn the crimes perpetrated on the Albanians by the Serbian regime -not to be instrumentalised by the same regime Council for the Defence of Human Rights and Freedoms has warned on the escalation of violence, the victims of which are the citizens of Kosova regardless of their nationality. CDHRF, as an institution dealing with the protection of human rights and freedoms, respects the UN Universal declaration on Human Rights and will document all violations regardless of nationality, condemn all violators and engage itself in bringing those responsible before court. In the period of January ? March, 108 people were killed in Kosova, of whom: Albanians: 59 female ? 12 male ? 47 elderly ? 5 Serbs: 17 female ? 1 male ? 16 elderly ? 3 Bosniacs: 5 female ? 3 male ? 2 underaged ? 1 Unidentified: 17 A Russian soldier and a foreigner, whose nationality is unknown, were killed. 80 persons out of the total of 108 were killed under unknown circumstances. 8 Albanians were killed in the region of Presheva, Bujanoc and Medvegja. Information Service Halime Morina