Parapunov echoed the familiar theory here that the Albanian rebels want to force a conflict that will result in the secession of western Macedonia, where much of the Albanian population lives. This is why they make the war with Serbia in Kosovo. Now these extremists want the same here. Macedonian Slavs also argue that Albanians have it better in Macedonia than anywhere else in the Balkans. Albanians hold five of 15 cabinet posts and 25 seats in the 120-seat Macedonian parliament.
Western diplomats say poor communication is a key problem.
For example, Albanians complain that the government does not recognize university degrees earned at the university in neighboring Albania. This was true until a few months ago when the government altered its policy. Additionally, Macedonian leaders have agreed to change the controversial preamble of the constitution, which makes Macedonian Slavs the country's primary nationality. Macedonian government officials said Tuesday they will reach out to the Albanian political parties now that they believe the worst of the crisis is over. The information we have suggests very soon we'll have normal living conditions and can continue the political dialogue.