Kosovo, Serbia clash in Sarajevo, freedom of movement of goods

The Plenar session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the South East European Co-operation Process, led by Bosnia and Herzegovina, failed to adopt the main document ʹ the final joint declaration, because Kosovo and Serbia delegations failed to reach consensus on amendments related to the freedom of movement of goods, services and people within the region as a driving force of economic growth and integration into a wider European market, with particular importance of full implementation of CEFTA rules and procedures among all participants of the agreement, Kohanet broadcast.

The Assembly delegation proposed the fulfillment of the amendment proposed by the Serbian delegation.

All sides should respect or fully support the principles of good neighbourly relations and comply with existing regional and bilateral agreements. To do so, SEECP participants pledge to recognise all the official respective authorities of the countries of origin of”.

The delegations of Kosovo and Serbia disagreed with reciprocal proposals, presenting arguments for and against.

This amendment exceeded the previous agenda, opening a long debate between the Kosovo Parliament delegation and the delegation from Serbia's Parliament.

According to the working regulation of the SEECP, decisions are made by consensus.

Kosovo in Sarajevo was represented by the permanent delegation of the Republic of Kosovo Assembly, led by Deputy Chairman Xhavit Haliti, in whose composition are Abdullah Hoti, Glauk Konjufca and Ismail Kurteshi.

The session's theme was the best link for a better life how to achieve a major change in the regional co-operation process”, which is being held in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Deputy Chairman Xhavit Haliti in his address stressed the necessity of establishing and deepening co-operation among SEECP participating countries, not only at regional level, but also at the bilatheral level.

Pointing to the obstacles of free movement of people and goods, as well as measures imposed by Bosnia and Herzegovina for citizens of Kosovo, messages of hatred by Serbian Minister Daciq, and racist comments by Prime Minister Brnabyq, as well as the importance of reaching the final, comprehensive agreement, for normalising relations between Kosovo and Serbia, for a long-term political and economic stability, and precondition for both societies to advance towards the European Union, Halii reiterated the importance of this process and Kosovo's commitment to dialogue, reaching agreement and mutual recognition.

The Plenar session was preceded by the general commission meetings and the Central Permanent Commission, which were held yesterday at the Bosnia and Herzegovina Parliament.

In addition to Kosovo, delegations from Bulgaria, Turkey, Greece, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia and Croatia are also participating in this session.