Speaking at the 2BS forum in Budva, Montenegro, European envoy Miroslav Lajcak emphasized that the relationship between Kosovo and Serbia poses the most significant strategic challenge in the region, impacting both regional cooperation and European integration. He noted that the two countries reached an agreement to normalize their relations at the beginning of last year, yet after 18 months, there has been no visible progress in its implementation.

“We see the efforts of the Kosovo government to establish the rule of law in the north of Kosovo. Everyone supports the rule of law, but unfortunately, it has been implemented in a way that provokes opposition from the international community and disappointment from the local community. Therefore, we have more tensions,” Lajcak said.

Lajcak referred to the actions of Kosovo authorities in closing Serbian parallel institutions in the northern, predominantly Serbian areas of Kosovo.

“I pose the question: what is the alternative to this confrontation and tension? Who benefits from it? Certainly not the citizens, nor Kosovo, Serbia, or the region. So, we know what needs to be done, and now the question is: why don’t we do it?” he said.

Regarding the armed attack against the Kosovo Police last year in Banjska, the European envoy stated that it had a very detrimental impact on the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.

“The EU has been very clear: those responsible for this must be held accountable. And we know who these people are; some of them have accepted responsibility, and it is regrettable that we do not see that accountability. The EU will continue to insist on accountability because incidents like Banjska should not go unpunished for those responsible,” Lajcak remarked.

When asked if he expects progress in relations between Kosovo and Serbia, as his mandate as Special Representative was extended until January 2025, Lajcak responded:

“Elections are coming in Kosovo, and from my political experience, I know that major changes are rarely expected before elections, but we are preparing the ground for swift progress immediately after them.”

Regarding Bosnia, Lajčak stated that after receiving candidate status for EU membership and an invitation to begin membership negotiations, concrete engagement is needed from that country.

/k.s/