Borrell Kosovo: extend the time for plates, establish association

Through a statement, he has said that these developments “jeopardise years of hard work and achievements achieved within the EU-mediated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina and undermine the security situation in the region and at the widest point”.

The European Union, he said, urges both sides to refrain from any unilateral action that could lead to further tensions.

Regarding the Serb departure from Kosovo institutions, Borrell said it did not resolve disputes. He even said, it could escalate tensions even further.

Kosovo Serb withdrawal from Kosovo institutions is not the solution to current disputes. It has the potential to escalate further tensions on the ground”, Borrell said.

He called on Serbia and representatives of Kosovo Serbs to respect their obligations of dialogue and return to Kosovo institutions to fulfil their duties, including those in police, judiciary and local administrations.

“at the same time, the EU again urges Kosovo authorities to respect their obligations without delay. This means the immediate extension of the auto reregisteration process and the suspension of any punitive action against KM license holders. The issue of license plates can be resolved by the parties within Dialogue”, he stressed.

The EU, Borrell said, also calls on Kosovo to start steps immediately for the establishment of the Serb majority municipalities' Association.

Kosovo's “Convention has ratified the Brussels Agreement and the Constitutional Court of Kosovo has decided that the Association/Unibility should be established. Therefore, establishing it is a legal obligation for Kosovo. The continued failure to implement this obligation violates the principle of rule of law and damages Kosovo's reputation and credibility”, the chief of European diplomacy.

Furthermore, Borrell says that “is the responsibility of the parties to guarantee peace and stability” and that “any action, such as burning cars, or frightening rhetoric that can lead to tensions, is unacceptable and will cause a proper response from the international community”.

In close co-ordination with KFOR and the Kosovo Police, Borrell said EULEX is ready to ensure stability on the ground in Kosovo in its role as the second security responseer.

He said EULEX and KFOR will continue support to maintain a safe environment in line with their respective mandates.

The EU, Borrell said, “urges the parties to eagerly choose the path of dialogue and refrain from any action that would lead to violence and confrontation”.

“The EU is ready to continue to facilitate negotiations, but both sides must show willingness to seek solutions constructively and respect their obligations made in Dialog”, European diplomacy chief Josep Borrell concluded.