OHR BiH Media Round-up, 10/11/2005

RADIO HERCEG-BOSNA (12,00 hrs)

BH Radio 1 (12,00 hrs)

RTRS (12,00 hrs)

Suicide attacks in Aman

No BiH citizen injured in Aman

ICTY cases beforeBiH Court soon

BiH citizen arrested in Sydney

‘In Search of Justice’ conference

Ashdown on his mandate

World news

No info on Austra. terrorism suspect

RS leaders visiting Bijeljina

RADIO HERCEG-BOSNA (18,00 hrs)

TV PINK (18,00 hrs)

BHT 1 (19,00 hrs)

Jovic on terrorism in BIH

EC Annual Report on BiH

A BiH citizen arrested in Australia?

EC delivered annual report to BIH

CoM on Davidovic’s candidacy

Failed robbery attempt

Sanader on Croat issue in BIH

BiH Presidency in session

A bank in Sarajevo robbed

FBIH HoP in session

HR meets ICTY Chief Prosecutor

Issue of old foreign currency savers

NTV Hayat (19,00 hrs)

FTV (19,30 hrs)

RTRS (19,30 hrs)

EC Annual Report on BiH

A lawyer brutally beaten

MFA on Mulahalilovic

CoM on Davidovic’s candidacy

Failed robbery attempt

Police prevents bank robbery

FBiH HoP adopted budget rebalance

EUPM on action in HNC MoI

EUFOR seizes illegal weaponry

FBiH HoP on “Energopetrol”

HNC Govt on action in HNC MoI

EC’s annual report to BIH

Oslobodjenje

Talks to start on November 21?’

Dnevni Avaz

HR Ashdown: I admit I was brutally harsh

Dnevni List

Raguz, Ljubic and Merdzo expelled

Vecernji List

Hezbollah in BiH

Slobodna Dalmacija

HSP Djapic-Jurisic wants mayor of Citluk to resign

Glas Srpske

Robber got a bullet

Nezavisne Novine

He was arrested in a mosque

Blic

Anonymous letters to the Head [story on situation in Banja Luka Psychiatric Clinic]

Vecernje Novosti

Serbia related headlines

LATEST NEWS OF TODAY

BiH Court seeks IC help in processing war crimes cases

BH Radio 1 Mirsad Bajktarevic, RS Radio – BiH Court needs the assistance from the International Community to solve the key problem in processing war crimes cases and arresting persons indicted who hide in neighboring countries, stated the President of the Court Meddzida Kreso at the conference “In Search after Justice”. She stressed that the main problem is that the majority of suspects have double citizenship which disables the extradition. The conference organized by the Balkans Investigative Network gathered the judicial experts and NGOs. The BiH Court officials also warned that out of 21 prison cells they have only one is empty, whereas one of the priorities is to build a detention center with capacity of 300 places. BH Radio reports that the ICTY Chief Prosecutor, Carla Del Ponte, most probably will not attend the conference as her plane was prevented from landing in Sarajevo due to fog, but instead had to land in Dubrovnik .

BiH authorities without information on Australian terrorism suspect

BH Radio 1, RS Radio – BiH Foreign Affairs Ministry and BiH Embassy in Austria still have no information whether Mirsad Mulahalilovic, arrested in Australia under suspicion of terrorism, is a BiH citizen. Ministry’s spokesperson, Nebojsa Regoje stated that official Australian authorities have not approached BiH on this issue.

Guardian reveals US plan for BiH constitution

BH Radio 1, RS Radio – UK daily Guardian published the article which reads that the Americans have written a new constitution transforming BiH into a centrally governed parliamentary democracy for the first time, adding US, backed by Europe, strongly pushes to have the blueprint agreed by BiH political leaders within the next fortnight. The blueprint has been developed during seven months of secret negotiations between US experts and officials and BiH politicians, and it apparently enjoys the full backing of the US state department. The crunch session of negotiations comes this weekend, when leaders of the main eight governing and opposition parties in BiH will gather in Brussels to discuss the concept which stipulates a national parliament with full legislative powers, central government and cabinet enjoying full executive power, and a titular head of state.

Political Developments/Reforms/Cooperation with ICTY

EC’s Humhreys handed to BiH CoM Chair Terzic report on BiH’s progress on its road to the EU

RHB, Pink, BHT, Hayat, FTV, RTRS, Oslobodjenje ‘Talks to start on November 21?’, Dnevni Avaz pg 2, mentioned on cover ‘Humphreys: BiH is now one of the countries that will join EU’, Dnevni List pg 2 ‘Humphreys submitted to Terzic report on progress’ by D.P.M., Nezavisne Novine pg 5, announced on cover ‘Organized crime is a threat to stability’ by M. Cubro [EC report on progress of BiH towards EU], Nezavisne Novine pg 5 ‘The Balkans countries are facing a long and difficult road to Europe’ by Srna [EC report on western Balkans], EuroBlic pg RS2 ‘Economy is weak spot of BiH’ by D. S. – The head of the European Commission Delegation to BiH, Michael Humphries, presented on Wednesday to the chairman of the BiH Council of Ministers, Adnan Terzic, an annual report on BiH’s progress on its road to the EU and a document titled ‘European Partnership for 2006.’ “BiH is now one of the countries that will join the EU,” Humphries told reporters after a ceremony in Sarajevo. He added that there were indications that EU talks with BiH on SAA might start on November 21. On the basis of the report of the European Commission, the Council of Ministers should make a list of tasks that must be done in the process of beginning talks on stabilisation and accession with the EU. Humphries said that progress was made in BiH last year in building and strengthening institutions, developing democracy, protecting of human rights, the rule of law, cooperation with the ICTY, police reform and reform of public RTV service. “In the future, much more attention must be paid to economic development, increasing employment, reducing the foreign debt and deficit, more intensive and efficient privatisation and recovery of state companies, reinforcement of the judiciary, especially in the area of liquidation proceedings and commercial law,” said Humphries. Terzic said that the members of the BiH Council of Ministers are aware that BiH is faced with a lot of work on its European road. “The report of the European Commission will be the basis for finding ways for BiH to begin quick and efficient talks on stabilisation and accession with the EU, which will be the primary task of the Council of Ministers and the Entity governments,” said Terzic. The European Commission is preparing annual reports on progress for each country, which has ambitions to become an EU member, and Humphries said that similar documents will be today presented to the governments in Belgrade and Zagreb.

DA int with Ashdown: I admit I was brutally harsh in some cases; DA: UK wants opening of SAA talks on 21 Nov, Brussels skeptical

Dnevni Avaz cover splash, pg 5 ‘I admit I was brutally harsh’ by Sead Numanovic – In an interview to DA after the meeting with the ICTY Chief Prosecutor Carla Del Ponte, the HR Paddy Ashdown says that the pressure to arrest Radovan Karadzic and Ratko Mladic must be increased to ensure their arrests to happen as soon as possible, by Dayton anniversary or his departure from BiH. Announcing Del Ponte will meet BiH officials in Sarajevo today, Ashdown says that the cooperation with the ICTY has been improved. On speculations that the SAA could start as early as 21 November, HR commented this would be very tight and difficult to achieve, but added no date is soon enough for him. Inset ‘Negotiations with BiH could start as early as 21 November?’ – daily learns that the United Kingdom, which also presides over EU this year, is very interested to launch the talks on the 10^th anniversary of the DPA, i.e. 21 November. However, according to DA, Brussels is very skeptical about this possibility due to slowness in the procedure to appointing BiH chief negotiator and a team, but also of the EC apparatus. Washington apparently supports London’s intentions directed at announcing SAA talks with BiH on date of DPA anniversary, which would make BiH the country which started SAA talks with EU within the shortest time span. In an interview, HR says: “Some people criticize me for being brutally harsh in the past three years when implementing some processes. I admit – I was! But, I’ve done that for one reason only: I am passionately fighting to ensure BiH is on its European path… we did not waste time in past three years and this should not happen in a future either.” Talking about his priorities in the last three months of the mandate [inset ‘Priorities in last three months’], HR says that while a lot has been done, there were several things not achieved: in addition to the uncompleted cooperation with the ICTY, but a number of smaller things such as law on obligations, state fiscal council and implement of Mostar plan should be finished. “I soon plan to travel to US to submit my last report to the [UN] Security Council as the HR,” says Ashdown adding he will also meet with George Bush’sAdministration on DPA. “Main message at these activities is that BiH moves from one to some other phase… IC in that situation becomes more of a friend, advisor, an advocate, and less someone imposing solutions,” adds Ashdown.

High Representative Meets ICTY Chief Prosecutor Carla Del Ponte

Pink, Hayat, RTRS, Oslobodjenje pg 3 ‘Ashdown to again give his testimony in trial of Slobodan Milosevic?’, Dnevni List pg 6, mentioned on cover ‘Del Ponte comes to get Karadzic again’ by I. Rozic, Nezavisne novine pg 8 ‘International forces are not culpable Karadzic and Mladic are still free’ by Agencies, inset ‘Carla de Ponte in Sarajevo’, EuroBlic pg RS2 ‘Local authorities are culpable’ by Srna – The High Representative, Paddy Ashdown, on Wednesday met with the ICTY’s Chief Prosecutor, Carla Del Ponte, in The Hague. Following the meeting, the High Representative, pointing to the increased cooperation with the Tribunal seen in the past 11 months, noted that the International Community is now watching closely to see that this process continues. “That means that all remaining individuals indicted for war crimes, including Radovan Karadzic and Ratko Mladic, are transferred to the ICTY without delay,” he said. “The journey will not be complete until every indicted individual is in The Hague,” said Ashdown. Ashdown expressed his readiness to again appear as witness in trial of Slobodan Milosevic if necessary and clarify details of his mission to Kosovo in 1998. 

SNSD leader Dodik received OSCE Head Davidson: Abolishment of HR’s powers would complicate political life in BiH

Nezavisne Novine pg 6 ‘Authorities are incompetent’ by V.P. – Milorad Dodik, SNSD President, stated that departure of HR to BiH, Paddy Ashdown, and abolishment of Bonn powers to his successor would complicate political life in BiH, since politicians in BiH are used to having an authorities incarnated in HR. after the meeting with Douglas Davidson, Head of OSCE Mission to BiH, Dodik stated that BiH authorities are incapable of reaching decisions by themselves and to bear responsibility for them.

Prime Communications’ poll on HR’s work

Nezavisne Novine pg 6 ‘Majority of citizens views Ashdown’s work unsuccessful’ by Agencies – The poll conducted by the Banja Luka Research Agency Prime Communications shows that 73.3% of citizens views the work of Paddy Ashdown, HR to BiH, as extremely poor, while 7.2% views his work very successful. 19.5% views that HR’s work successful. The poll was conducted on the sample of 1770 persons. Oslobodjenje pg 2 also covered the issue.

Vecernje Novosti on “Igman session”

Vecernje Novsoti pg 4 ‘Paravac saved Marovic’ by D.Stojakovic – Daily’s source at the Cabinet of SiCG’ President, if Borislav Paravac, Serb member to BiH Presidency, had not refused to sign document offered by “Igman initiative”, Svetozar Marovic, SiCG President, would have refused at after all. Nevertheless, Paravac’ opposition to sign Document was welcomed by Marovic, who avoided unpleasant situation to refuse to sign the Document. Daily’s source claims that during some unofficial contacts, Marovic regarded the Document inappropriate and criticized intention of NGO’s to interfere into issues of plain political background. Furthermore, daily reports referring to rumours in the corridors around “Igman session”, Ivo Miro Jovic did not approve of the Document either.

EU Force commander says Bosnia ‘s Dayton settlement brake on development

Dnevni Avaz pg 9 ‘Elections to be indicator if BiH still needs EUFOR’, ONASA – EUFOR Commander David Leakey said Wednesday evening that the Dayton constitution is dissatisfactory because too may people uses it as a mean for disabling development of B-H as a state. “During making of Dayton, everyone thought only to end the war and near future of the country. I’m encouraged by the fact that 10 years since Dayton, more and more people B-H, from politicians to religious leaders, are willing to reconsider the Dayton constitution. Therefore, the good thing is that people want to make a constitution by themselves which will replace the one whose drafting engaged international community officials,” said Leakey, who was one of negotiators in Dayton. He said that it is necessary to organize a political debate on amending the Dayton constitution and that the role of EUFOR is to ensure conditions for a healthy debate in which no one will fear of “political violence.” “We are here to create a safe surrounding together with police, because a debate on amending the constitution might have a destabilizing impact on some people, who have no trust in police that it can guarantee safety during political unsafety,” said Leakey during a gathering with journalists in Sarajevo, organized following his soon departure from the function.

He considers there is small risk that B-H will again be unstable country, but that there are potential reasons such as division caused by nationalistic politic. Leakey is leaving the function on 6 December, when he will be replaced by Italian general Gian Marco Chiarini.

US’ Burns on changes of DPA

Hayat by Voice of America – US Under Secretary for Political Affairs Nicholas Burns informed US Congress that on November 21^st, US State Secretary Condoleezza Rice and BiH officials are going to mark the 10^th anniversary of Dayton Peace Agreement, adding that DPA was never meant to last forever. According to Burns, peoples of BiH have already recognised the need for changes of DPA in order to join EU and NATO. Burns said that BiH political leaders are going to be asked to eliminate all differences and agree on changes, which will include one state President, stronger position of Prime Minister and reformed Parliament. Burns stated that the USA are got going to accept any changes of borderlines in the region. Burns stated that status of Kosovo and situation in BiH must be resolved in 2006. According to him, next year will be crucial for future of Kosovo.

Danas: New constitutional changes are ‘cosmetic changes’

Danas, pgs 14-17, mentioned on front ‘Americans propose new constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina’, by Josip Blazevic – The article notes that the US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, will present the final proposal of constitutional changes for BiH at the 10^th anniversary of the DPA, after the Brussels meeting of leading political parties. According to Danas, the constitutional changes will focus on institutional changes, such as strengthening of the state government, however there will be no changes to the territorial organization of BiH. ‘Danas’ concludes it is about ‘cosmetic’ changes, which will not solve the issue that has the biggest specific weight in BiH – the national issue that is, which will in fact ‘cement’ the territorial exclusivity of one people (Serbs in RS) and institutional domination of the other people (Bosniaks in FBiH).

BiH Presidency session; Jovic on constitutional changes

Pink, Hayat, FTV, RTRS, Oslobodjenje pg 4 ‘Visit to France from 14-15 November’, pg 4 ‘Croats are only equal in the Presidency’, Dnevni Avaz pg 9 ‘Abolishment of President would be a cosmetic change’, Nezavisne Novine pg 6 ‘Jovic pleads for new Constitution and Presidency of BiH’ by A. Sisic, EuroBlic pg RS2 ‘Negotiations with EU will commence on December 20’ by D. S.,Dnevni List pg 2 ‘This is not time for one President’ by E.M. – The BiH Presidency held a session on Wednesday. With regard to constitutional changes, that imply one President and bigger competences of the state Parliament, Chairman of the BiH Presidency Ivo Miro Jovic stated that this is not the time for cosmetic changes in the BiH Presidency that is the only authority institution where Croats participate equally. 

Slobodna Dalmacija pg 72 ‘American bases in BiH?’ by B. Kristo also carries Jovic as saying: “Preparations for marking the 10^th anniversary of the DPA go according to the plan.” He stressed that it is still not known as to when a ceremonious session of the BiH Parliamentary Assembly organized on this occasion should take place but he believes that it would be on November 20.

Croatian PM Sanader: BiH’s future is in united Europe

RHB, FTV, Oslobodjenje pg 4 ‘We see future of BiH in the united Europe’, Dnevni Avaz pg 4 ‘Croats must not lose the status of constituent people at any price’ – “Croatian Government wants BiH to be a safe and independent state, in which Croats will be an equal and constituent people. And we see future of BiH in the united Europe,” said Croatian Prime Minister Ivo Sanader at the Croatian Parliament on Wednesday. He added that Croatia will support any decision reached by all three constitutional peoples in BIH. Commenting the possible Constitutional changes, Sanader stated that Croatia will through bilateral negotiations advocate that BIH Croats are guaranteed the equal and constitutional rights in BIH.

HDZBiH National Council discusses constitutional changes initiatives/Covic met US Institute for Peace delegation

Dnevni List pg 3 ‘Survival of 2 entities impossible’ by S. Bjelica – Before the session of the HDZ National Council that took place on Wednesday, the HDZ President, Dragan Covic, stated that HDZ had a clear stand on the BiH Constitution and future of BiH according to which ‘survival of two entities is impossible’. He stressed: “We have said precisely: do not speculate about the third entity any longer, speak clearly about impossibility that two entities survive and in this way we are more clear and trustworthy.” Covic also stressed that HDZ would not agree on cosmetic changes of the BiH Constitution.

Vecernji List pg 7 ‘No to ‘cosmetic’ changes of Constitution’ by V. Ivankovic carries that Covic met on Wednesday with the delegation of the US Institute for Peace led by former PDHR Donald Hays and they talked about the conference on improving the DPA that is to take place in Brussels on November 14, 2005. On this occasion Covic said that the BiH Constitution should be changed completely and that it should not be agreed to have cosmetic changes only.  Hays informed Covic that so far he had talks with SDS, SNSD, PDP and SDP Presidents and that he is going to have talks with SDA and SBiH Presidents. BHT, Hayat, Oslobodjenje pg 3 ‘Division of BiH in two entities unacceptable’, Nezavisne Novine pg 6 ‘Survival of two entities is impossible’ by Srna also reported on session of HDZ National Council, carried Covic’s statement.

Ljubic, Raguz and Merdzo expelled from HDZ

Vecernji List, pg 7, mentioned on front ‘Court of honour expelled Ljubic, Raguz and Merdzo’, by Zoran Kresic – The High court of honour of HDZ BiH expelled three prominent members of HDZ BiH, namely Bozo Ljubic, Josip Merdzo and Martin Raguz, from the party. The decision is not final as yet, because the troika can still appeal with the HDZ Main Board against the decision. Dnevni List, front pg splash ‘Raguz, Ljubic and Merdzo expelled’ and pg 3 ‘Raguz, Ljubic and Merdzo expelled from HDZ’, by M. Batarello – carries Raguz as saying that he did not want to take the Court’s decision in writing because the Court wanted to hand over the HDZ Presidency’s decision on removal from all party offices and request for expulsion from the party. “The problem is that such decision was never taken at a session of the Presidency. The Presidency only took a decision to start a disciplinary procedure, and they (Court of honour) wanted to give me the decision on expulsion, which I refused”, said Raguz, arguing that the procedure was not observed. Slobodna Dalmacija, pg 24, mentioned on front ‘Ljubic, Raguz and Merdzo expelled from HDZ BiH!’, by Emil Karamatic – Carries Ljubic and Merdzo as saying that the decision is illegal and farcical.

BHT, FTV, RTRS, Oslobodjenje pg 8 ‘Ljubic, Raguz and Merdzo excluded from HDZ’, Dnevni Avaz pg 4, mentioned on cover, Nezavisne Novine pg 2 ‘Raguz, Ljubic and Merdzo were excluded from HDZ’ by A. Durmo also reported on the issue.

Danas: Covic will expel Zoric from HDZ after local elections in Grude

Danas, pg 6 ‘Dragan Covic will rule on Vinko Zoric after elections’, not signed – Danas notes that Vinko Zoric, an HDZ MP in BiH House of Representatives who signed the ‘Promemoria’ together with Ljubic, Merdzo and Raguz will be expelled from the party as soon as the elections for head of municipality of Grude are over (Zoric is from Grude). Allegedly, the HDZ President, Dragan Covic, decided not to expel Zoric immediately because the expulsion would minimize HDZ’s chance in the forthcoming elections.

Ljubic insists: Covic has been told to either organize new HDZ Convention or step down

Slobodna Dalmacija, pg 20 ‘Covic got the explanation: Either Convention or removal’, by Zlatko Tulic – carries a brief interview with Bozo Ljubic, who comments on the recent visit by Dragan Covic to Brussels, where he had talks with the European People’s Party about the situation in the HDZ BiH. Asked to comment on Covic’s statement (who stated after returning from Brussels that there were no reasons to repeat the 9^th Convention of HDZ), Ljubic notes that according to his information, the EPP’s position regarding the legality of the Convention is still the same, i.e. that the letter that Covic had received earlier is still in force, namely that Covic got a clear message – to either organize a new Convention or step down.

Terzic welcomed the nomination of Davidovic

Nezavisne novine pg 4 ‘Terzic welcomed the appointment of Davidovic’ by Agencies, EuroBlic pg RS2 ‘Davidovic’s nomination was welcomed’ by Srna – CoM Chairman Adnan Terzic welcomed the nomination of Igor Davidovic for chief negotiator in of BiH with EU. Terzic also commended RS President Dragan Cavic for the manner in which he ensured political consensus in RS and nominated Davidovic.

SNSD leader Dodik: Davidovic to face a difficult task

Oslobodjenje pg 5 ‘Davidovic to face a difficult task’, Dnevni Avaz pg 2 ‘It will not be easy for Davidovic to cooperate with such a CoM’, Nezavisne Novine pg 4 ‘Davidovic is facing problems’ by V. P., EuroBlic pg RS3 ‘Negotiator will have difficulties’ by Srna – SNSD President Milorad Dodik has stated that Igor Davidovic will not have an easy job as chief negotiator, especially when it comes to CoM. Dodik also said it is still not known within CoM whether the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is functioning, nor it is known what kind of a status do Minister Mladen Ivanic and Minister Branko Dokic have.

Kostunica cancelled his visit to BL

RTRS, Dnevni List pg 4 ‘Kostunica’s visit cancelled’ not signed, Nezavisne Novine pg 2 ‘Fog prevented the visit of Kostunica’ by M. C. and D. R., Dnevni Avaz pg 3 ‘SBS found out about Kostunica’s arrival to BiH only yesterday at 11:30’ by E. Sarac and Aj. Delic – The visit of Serbian PM Vojislav Kostunica to Banja Luka was postponed due to heavy fog at Banja Luka airport, as according to an official statement of RS Government’s Public Relations Bureau. SiCG Ambassador to BiH Stanimir Vukicevic also issued a statement saying the visit was transparent and announced as in accordance with the usual practice.

Dnevni Avaz pg 3 ‘Ivanic: announcement was received too late’ by N. D. – BiH Minister of Foreign Affairs Mladen Ivanic claims the announcement on the visit was received too late and noted that such visits are usually announced up to several days in advance, which was not the case with Kostunica’s visit.

Economic/Social Affairs

FBiH Constitutional Court : Law on old foreign currency savings is unconstitutional

RHB, BHT, Hayat, FTV, Oslobodjenje pg 5 ‘Old foreign currency savings must be returned/paid back’, Dnevni List pg 4 ‘Law limits rights of old foreign currency savings depositors’ by E. Mackic, Vecernji List pg 6 ‘Constitutional Court: Victory of depositors’ by E.M., Slobodna Dalmacija pg 23 ‘Law on old foreign currency savings is unconstitutional’ by F. Mioc – The FBiH Constitutional Court (CC) proclaimed as unconstitutional Articles of the Law on Internal Debt that refer on the old foreign currency savings. The FBiH CC concluded that this law limited the right of old foreign currency savings depositors to enjoy their property.

Dnevni List pg 2 ‘Victory of old foreign currency savings depositors’ by D. Polovina-Mandic welcomes the aforementioned decision of the FBiH CC and the author says that this decision returns confidence in the BiH judiciary to a large extent.

FBiH HoP adopts budget re-balance

RHB, Hayat, FTV, Oslobodjenje pg 8 ‘Money ensured for disabled persons, air company’, Dnevni Avaz pg 10, Vecernji List pg 6 ‘Money for BiH Airlines and invalids’ by E. Medunjanin – At the continued session, FBiH House of Peoples did not discuss the issue of re-capitalization of Energopetrol company although it was expected to do so. FBIH adopted the rebalance of the FBiH budget for 2005. FBiH Finance Minister Dragan Vrankic stated thatFBIH HoP supported the stance that the budget for persons with disabilities should be increased for 18 million KM and that the AirBosna company should be aided by only 8 million KM.

FBiH Government to continue its work regularly following Minister Zigic’s resignation

Dnevni Avaz pg 8 ‘Federal Government can convene sessions for the moment’ by M. K. – Although the resignation of F BiH Minister of Energy, Industry and Mining Izet Zigic had brought in question holding of sessions of F BiH Government, the sessions scheduled for today and next week will take place, since F BiH President Niko Lozancic ordered Zigic to perform the duties as Minister until a final decision on accepting his resignation is adopted. According to some unofficial information, Lozancic will accept Zigic’s resignation but only after he holds consultations with F BiH PM Ahmet Hadzipasic and with parties. Oslobodjenje pg 2 ‘The Government continues holding sessions after Zigic’s resignation’ by A. O. also covered the issue.

Party for BiH’s Belkic on “Energopetrol” issue

Nezavisne Novine pg 4 ‘Possible restoration’ by R.Cengic – Beriz Belkic, member of Presidency of Party for BiH, Wednesday stated that the next 15 days might see new developments, that could facilitate restoration of the Sarajevo company “Eregopetrol” without seeing it sold to consortium INA/MOL. He did not want to elaborate on term “new developments”.

Hadzipasic and Vrankic unhappy with FBiH HoP’s decision re changes to Law on Privatization of Companies, ‘Aluminij’ unhappy too

Dnevni List, pg 5 ‘MPs voted against their own conclusion’, by Danka Polovina-Mandic – The FBiH PM, Ahmet Hadzipasic, and his Deputy, Dragan Vrankic, are disappointed with the FBiH House of Peoples’ decision not to adopt changes to the Law on Privatization of Companies. PM Hadzipasic calls on the MPs to read the conclusions they had earlier proposed to the FBiH Government regarding the changes to the said law, which are, according to PM Hadzipasic, the same conclusions the FBiH Government is now advocating. Both Vrankic and Hadzipasic says the FBiH HoP’s decision will have a negative effect on the agreement the FBiH Government has reached with the ‘Aluminij’ of Mostar. Namely, the ownership structure and compensation to former employees of the company can only be changed/realized when the changes to the law have been enacted.

Slobodna Dalmacija, pg 22 ‘Politics over workers’ backs’, by Z. Z. – The Management of the ‘Aluminij’ also notes that the consequences of the FBiH HoP’s decision will be negative. Namely, the Management says the decision will suspend contacts with strategic partners that are interested in privatization of the company and will also bring into question the status of pre-war workers of the company.

Regional Investment Forum held in Sarajevo

Pink, Hayat, FTV, RTRS, Oslobodjenje pg 11 ‘A lot of work before BiH government, financial institutions’, Dnevni Avaz pg 14 ‘State ready for bonds issuance’, Slobodna Dalmacija pg 72 ‘Banking must be under umbrella of Central Bank’ by D. Pasic, EuroBlic pg RS3 ‘Butler demands for supervision’ by Srna, Glas Srpske pg 2 ‘He is criticizing “shortsighted”’ by Srna – Over 150 representatives of local and foreign organisations are participating in Regional Investment Forum (RIF), that is being held in Sarajevo. Vice Governor of BiH Central Bank Ljubisa Vladicic stated that RIF is important for presentation of development projects in BiH, business environment and infrastructures. Main challenge for BiH is to overcome current problems caused by high public spending, import rate and low competitiveness. BiH Minister for Treasury Ljerka Maric emphasized that it is necessary to assure cheaper capital for private sector. Chief of EC Delegation in BiH Michael Humphreys stated that the EU plans to invest in stabile economic development. PDHR Larry Butler stated that BiH needs to adopt Law on Obligations by the middle of 2006, the Entity Banking Agencies must be incorporated in the Central Bank, and BiH Statistics Office must be unified.

Norwegian Consultancy Agency on BiH Ministry’s report on donations

Nezavisne Novine pg 5 ‘Unreliable data on BAM 7 billion’ by M.Cubro – The Norwegian Consultancy Agency IT4DEV has assessed that the programme of the BiH Ministry of Trade and Economic Relations regarding donations given to BiH opens the possibility that the number of registered donations is largely below the real number of donations given.

Terrorism/Organised Crime/Legal Proceeings

BiH citizen was one of 17 suspected terrorists arrested in Australia

Nezavisne Novine cover pg splash ‘He was arrested in a mosque’ and pg 3 ‘A young man from BiH suspected of being a terrorist’ by J. Sarac – BiH citizen Mirsad Mulahalilovic was one of 17 persons suspected of terrorism that were arrested two days ago in Australia, as the father of the arrested Mirsad, Munir Mulahalilovic confirmed. He claims there are no evidence his son was involved in any terrorist activities. Vecernje Novosti pg 20 ‘A Bosniak terrorist was arrested as well?’ by D. Stojakovic – carries a similar report. All other BiH media also covered the issue.

Former Israeli Intelligence agent: WW 3^rd commenced between western and Islamic cultures

Nezavisne Novine pg 3 ‘A new world war commenced’ by B92 – Shaul Shay, expert for terrorism, claims that a new world war has practically commenced. Shay, who is former officer of the Israeli Intelligence Service currently giving lectures at Bar Ilan University , claims that two cultures – western and Islamic – are in war. Shay is currently completing his book on the Balkans, which he regards as extremely important region, since extreme Islamists have there developed their infrastructure after wars in BiH, at Kosovo and Macedonia , where they took part.

Mektic on link of persons arrested in BiH with planned assault against White House

Nezavisne Novine pg 3 ‘Those arrested in BiH connected with preparation of assault against White House’ by D.Raduski – The Danish media Wednesday published that suspected terrorists arrested over the past few days during isolated actions of apprehension in BiH, London and Denmark are linked with planned attack against the White House. According to NN inset ‘Mektic: Claims under review’, Dragan Mektic, Assistant to BiH Minister of Security, confirmed that following arrest of two persons in BiH, police agencies at some foreign states were contacted, without revealing more information. He said: “Some information is still under investigation – hence, it is not possible to make investigation results public.”

Jovic: BIH cooperates with International Institutions on fighting terrorism

RHB – Commenting the writings of Western media on BIH as terrorists’ base, Chairman of BIH Presidency Ivo Miro Jovic told journalists in Sarajevo on Wednesday that with regard to information on terrorist activities in BIH, BIH Security Agencies start the investigation in cooperation with International Institutions. Jovic stated that the establishment of the commission for citizenship review was extremely important issue for BiH and that it should have been done years before.

New BiH Army contingent goes to Iraq

BHT, Oslobodjenje cover page, pg 3 ‘BiH Presidency attended a ceremony of sending new BiH Army contingent to Iraq’, Dnevni Avaz pg 2, mentioned on cover ’11 BiH soldiers already left for Kuwait’, Dnevni List pg 4 ‘Presidency visited soldiers that travel to Iraq’ by D.P.M., Vecernji List pg 3 ‘Return of 36 peace-makers to BiH on November 24’ not signed, Nezavisne Novine pg 2 ‘Another 11 soldiers from BiH went to Iraq’ by D. Muminovic, EuroBlic pg RS3 ‘Second group went to Iraq’ by Srna – 11 members of BiH Armed Forces went to Kuwait on Wednesday, after which they will be deployed to peace-keeping missions in Iraq. BiH Presidency members, Defense Minister and Generals of BiH Armed Forces visited the soldiers prior to their departure. BiH Presidency Chairman Ivo Miro Jovic said the participation of BiH in peacekeeping missions confirmed the success of defense reform.

Smoluca drugs rehabilitation centre under surveillance over suspicious information

Oslobodjenje pg 2 ‘Smoluca centre under surveillance of American intelligence agencies’, announced on cover ‘Smoluca centre under surveillance of American intelligence agents’ by A.Avdic – Daily learns that the Centre for rehabilitation of drug addicts at Smoluca near Lukavac, which has been managed by Islamic Religious Community for a year now, has been under surveillance of the American intelligence agencies. The key reason for surveillance was a finding of BiH police bodies, that had been following up on work of Smoluca centre over the summer and discovered that three out of seven protégés have not been registered as drug addicts at all. A well-informed source of Oslobodjenje claims that thorough investigation established that some of them do not have the same name and surname as listed in records of Islamic Religious community. Centre Manager Enis Secic on Wednesday told paper he is aware centre is under surveillance of foreign agencies. However, he claims everything is clean at Smoluca and that there are no terrorist activities.

Dnevni Avaz pg 12 ‘Center for drug addicts at Smoluca under surveillance of intelligence agents?’ by E.Huremovic – DA also reports on the issue, referring to sources close to Tuzla Canton MoI.

VL: OSA prepared report on involvement of spies from Arabic countries, report leaked to ‘Saff’ magazine

Vecernji List, front pg splash ‘Hezbollah in BiH’ and pgs 2-3 ‘Foreign intelligence discovered’, by Zdenko Jurilj – Notes that the BiH Intelligence-Security Agency has prepared a report, which speaks about presence of foreign intelligence agents from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, Qatar and Kuwait in BiH, and who are working on radicalisation (of situation) in BiH. Allegedly, the information were collected by means of surveillance and wire-tapping. However, VL notes that the problem is that the report, which was supposed to be classified, leaked under undetermined circumstances to the ‘Saff’ Islamic youth magazine, which published parts of it. Apparently, the report contains names of individuals and organizations that are involved in the scheme, which also includes the ‘King Fahd’ cultural centre in Sarajevo and the Saudi Embassy to BiH. The report also notes that Iranian spies have been spreading the Shiite ideology and organizing the support network for ‘Hezbollah’ terrorist organization in BiH.

VL op-ed: BiH is linked with terrorism, BiH authorities have top act

Vecernji List, pg 2 ‘BiH and terrorism’, by Miroslav Vasilj – The author argues that reports in foreign media that link BiH with terrorist activities are indeed true, however the author notes that some reports exaggerate when speak about BiH’s involvement in terrorist activities. Vasilj goes on to say that BiH authorities have to tackle the issue and expel the mujahiddin from BiH, as ordered by the Dayton Peace Accord.

EUPM satisfied with operation in Canton 7 MoI

Dnevni List, pg 5 ‘Operation in MoI was professional’, by NINA, Slobodna Dalmacija pg 20 ‘EUPM satisfied with FBiH MoI policemen’ by B. Kristo – The investigative team of the European Union Police Mission (EUPM) deems that the operation that was carried out at the Herzegovina Neretva Canton (HNK) Ministry of Interior on November 7 and 8 was necessary and that it was carried out in a professional manner. Namely, EUPM is engaged in monitoring the special investigation of the FBiH MoI Police Investigation, and this investigation includes the operations the FBiH has carried out in Mostar in order to make progress in this investigation. “This investigation is still in the initial phase and it is in interest of the public of HNK and BiH that it is completed successfully and professionally”, said EUPM Commissioner, Kevin Carty. He added that it is also in the best interest of all relevant authorities in HNK to support the police and fully cooperate with the law enforcement agencies.

VL says aim of operation in canton 7 MoI is to remove minister Martinovic; SD says EUPM ordered investigation

Vecernji List, pg 6 ‘Thought-out plan to remove one minister’, by Vesna Leto – Reporting about the raid on the HNK MoI, VL learns from an anonymous source close to the HNK MoI that the joint police operation entitled ‘Autumn 2005’, which was agreed upon the HNK Interior Minister, Tomislav Martinovic, and RS Interior Minister, Darko Matijasevic, and which was to combat car smugglers and drug dealers in the area, has taken a ‘wrong turn’. “The operation was named ‘Autumn 2005’, however nobody expected that the ‘Autumn 2005’ will be the FBiH MoI’s operation against the HNK MoI and minister Tomislav Martinovic”, says the source, who also questions the good intentions of the FBiH MoI, which allegedly seized the documentation that favours the FBiH MoI.

Slobodna Dalmacija, pg 20 ‘Raid into MoI over financial malversations’, by Antonela Vlaho – SD unofficially learns that the EUPM asked from the BiH Prosecution two months ago that an investigation be launched against several employees of the HNK MoI over alleged financial illegalities. There still no official information about the operation.

SD critical of ’60 minutes’ for calling HVO ‘criminal and terrorist organization’

Slobodna Dalmacija pg 18 ‘FTV as TV Pale’ by P. Milos criticizes FTV political show ’60 minuta’ broadcasted last Monday when HVO was qualified as ‘a criminal and terrorist organization’.  The author believes that qualifying all HVO members as criminals and terrorists creates a revolt that is not a good ally to co-existence and mutual respect.

Attempt bank robbery in East Sarajevo

Glas Srpske cover pg splash ‘A robber got a bullet’ by Z. D. and N. Z. – reports on attempt of robbery in East Sarajevo. Police is currently engaged in an intensive search after four armed persons who attempted to rob the vehicle carrying money of Nova Banka branch in East Sarajevo. The police suspect security guards shot and wounded one of robbers.

EuroBlic pg RS3, announced on cover ‘Security guards of bank prevented robbery’ by D. S., Sarajevo media also reported on the crime.