German MP: Liberalising Visas, But Even Resigning Tax

Germany's Social Democrat Party MP in German Bundestag Josip Juratovic says the EU should react to the tax imposed by Pristina authorities on products originating from Serbia, but also liberalise visas for Kosovo.
Make progress takes time. Whatever the case, Europe will react. Especially Germany, which is concerned about developments in the Western Balkans. This part of the Balkans needs as soon as it can connect to Europe” has said Juratovic in an interview for 88ugug, the newspaper Express broadcast.

He has said that the CEFTA agreement is very important for the development of economy and markets in the Western Balkans, and according to him, the tax imposed by Pristina makes things difficult.

This is Germany's position, but also all of Europe. No one can say it's good to raise taxes by 10 percent to 100 percent. In this case not only is Serbia being penalised, but Kosovo's people --” -- the German deputy has said.

He hopes this issue will be solved cultured between Pristina and Belgrade.

Juratovic has said Germany's interest is stabilisation of the region, and resolving interethnic problems.

No one in Europe should be interested in opening new conflicts”, the German MP has added, among other things, broadcast Express newspaper.

As for visa liberalisation, Juratovic says Kosovars are becoming unfair.

“Pristine is being wronged because only Kosovo citizens can't move without visas towards the EU. I think this issue will be resolved positively”, Juratovic added, saying lifting the visa regime would make Kosovo equal before others and facilitate negotiations.

German politician considers the campaign Serbia has made against membership of the Republic of Kosovo in INTERPOL as a tactical mistake.

I think Serbia has made a tactical mistake and they have had to support Kosovo for membership in INTERPOL, because we are all fighting crime and corruption, and it is the only way of international co-operation”, Juratovic has indicated.

Asked what Germany will do for Kosovo to remove its 100 per cent tax, Juratovic has said Germany is interested in helping the Balkans, however, the main job remains with those who have imposed the tax.

“German is willing to help the region, but those who have made this decision must do 90 percent of the job, Berlin would be happy to contribute only 10 percent to the matter”, German Bundestag deputy Josip Juratovic has concluded.