Von Croamon expects progress in dialogue after elections in Kosovo, Serbia

It's a very long process and we see that we have elections in both countries. During that period, it is very difficult for local audiences to reconcile with some deeper reforms or major changes. In this direction, I see there is progress. Both leaders are meeting, and I would call it a success. “We should see if we are making progress and we in the EU would like it to be faster,” said von Cromon for N1.

He estimates Kurti and Vuciq will be very careful because of the upcoming elections, as well as that there will be an easier <x0-term on this dialogue” after the elections.

I expect Vuciq and Kurti to show leadership because both leaders have considerable support in parliament and among voters. The purpose of the negotiations is not to set preconditions and say what is required and expected of someone, but to look at individual steps and results. I hope both leaders are committed to European integration, and that they know it's not easy, but it's possible and that this leads to success”, said von Cromon.

She noted that Pristina is committed to establishing association of Serb municipalities, but she also added that institutions in northern Kosovo should be integrated into the Kosovo system.

The “Serbs in northern Kosovo live in relatively dignified conditions. I think it's important for northern Mitrovica not to allow the ethnic gap to strengthen or deepen. I hope that all minorities in Kosovo are guaranteed certain rights and that they have seats in the Kosovo Parliament ... All have their rights, but in the long-term plan they must integrate into the Kosovo system,” said von Cromon.

She said Albin Kurti is a new person in the prime minister's post, that there are ambitious domestic plans, as well as that she wants to get rid of old customs and old forms of corruption.

While for Serbia, it said it needs reforms and progress in the justice and prosecutorial sector.

The government knows all of this, but we need to expand the perspective when it comes to pluralism, media freedoms of the opposition. Instead, space for activists, opposition, nongovernmental organisations and independent media is narrowing down. And this is important when it comes to Serbia's European integration”, von Cromon said.

Otherwise, continuing dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina is expected in September in Brussels. In Kosovo, regular municipal elections will be held on 17 October.