Peter Sorensen, the European Union’s new Special Envoy for the Kosova–Serbia dialogue, will work to make the process more effective and results-oriented.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged on Thursday the widespread criticism of the 14-year dialogue, particularly the lack of implementation of numerous agreements signed between the two sides.

Taking over from Miroslav Lajcak on February 1, Sorensen now leads the EU’s efforts in facilitating the normalization process.

“We have just appointed Peter Sorensen as the Special Representative for the dialogue between Belgrade and Prishtina. I will meet with him in March to discuss how we move forward. It is clear that normalizing relations is essential for both countries. If they believe they can advance on their European path without it, I don’t think that is possible,” Kallas said in a briefing with journalists.

She underscored the need to revitalize the process:

“There are concerns about the current format, and I truly want to explore ways to make it more effective. I have also discussed this with Serbia’s foreign minister, who assured me they are ready to invest time in normalization. At the same time, Kosova has just held elections, so we will see how the new government takes shape and determine the next steps.”

/a.p./