Chief negotiators from Kosova and Serbia, Besnik Bislimi and Petar Petkovic, are in Brussels today for a new round of EU-facilitated talks aimed at normalizing relations between the two countries. The discussions will begin with separate meetings between the delegations and Miroslav Lajcak, the EU’s special envoy. If there is willingness from both sides, a trilateral meeting may follow.

EU spokesperson Peter Stano indicated that while the EU aims for trilateral meetings, this depends on the parties’ willingness. In the last meeting in September, Lajcak could not secure a trilateral discussion due to disagreements over the agenda.

Today’s talks will focus on the urgent need to implement obligations from previous agreements, including the 2023 Agreement on the Path to Normalization. Stano emphasized that both Kosovo and Serbia must agree on progress in the dialogue.

In recent discussions, Lajcak has consulted with both parties but has not disclosed specific topics for today’s meetings. Frustration is growing within the EU and NATO over the slow progress in the dialogue, with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressing concern.

Lajcak’s mandate extends until the end of January 2025, and the EU is awaiting the new High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, to define her approach to the dialogue once her team is confirmed.

Kosovan Prime Minister Albin Kurti has expressed hope for a new dynamic in the dialogue from the European Commission.

/a.p./