German diplomat: Kosovo is condition for Serbia's EU entry

The overhaul of unresolved relations between Belgrade and Pristina is one of the conditions for Serbia's membership in the European Union. The deadlines or some predetermined dynamics for Union membership do not exist, but it would be good if negotiations with Serbia are more dynamic. The fact that the government of Serbia has recognised the necessity of reforms is a fact that makes us happy. When it comes to easing the consequences of the coronary pandemic, the EU will be a partner with the countries of the Western Balkans and will provide the region with a assistance of about 12 billion euros”, the German top diplomat said in an interview with the Serbian medium Kurir.

Asked what solution for Kosovo is acceptable to Germany, status-quo, frozen conflict, partition of Kosovo or recognition of Kosovo's independence from Belgrade, German Foreign Minister Heiko Mass has said a comprehensive agreement between the two states is one of the key conditions for Serbia to enter the EU.

Unresolved relations between Serbia and Kosovo cost a lot, for both sides. Such a situation, above all, slows down the economic development of the two countries and thus represents a setback for the entire region. It would be extremely important for people to reach a solution together. This includes pointing to advantages for people in order to encourage collective courage to accept the challenge of mutual reconciliation. Adjusting these unresolved relations is, after all, one of the key conditions for Serbia's membership in the European Union, which would thus become much closer to Serbia. We strongly support the EU-brokered dialogue with Special Envoy Miroslav Lajcak. Fortunately, the silence that has dominated communication between Serbia and Kosovo since last summer has been overcome. This now opens a good opportunity to use for a solution in the form of a comprehensive agreement. Such an agreement would enable EU membership in the future, but more importantly, it would be of great importance for the future of people in Serbia and Kosovo”, Mass has said.