Hill: I am disappointed with the pace of dialogue, US supports Open Balkans

Hill, in an interview for the Serbian daily Danas, has indicated that his desire is to see stronger co-operation between Kosovo and Serbia, and that according to him in relations between Pristina and Belgrade should have much more progress on concrete issues.

I've been in Serbia for 23 years. It is disappointing that there has been no more progress in relations between Serbia and Kosovo. It is good that the European Union has taken over to lead this process and it is good that it has a” dialogue, it is expressed.

The American diplomat, who has a long experience in the Balkans and is closely aware of the political dynamics in the region, has expressed his enthusiastic support for the Open Balkans initiative, as he said there is a resistance to enlargement, and for that reason the Western Balkans in particular should work even more towards regional co-operation.

Therefore I support the Open Balkans. There has been an important approach between Albania and Serbia, and we can talk not only about good relations between Prime Minister Rama and President Vucic, but also about improving relations in all areas. It's an inspiration for all”, he added.

Asked about reports with President Vucic, Hill, except that it has shown there are regular meetings, has made it clear that a host of issues disagree with him.

With President Vucic, I discussed the situation in Ukraine, so Russian aggression against Ukraine. We also discussed the situation in the region and the support of the US administration for regional co-operation, such as the “Open Balkans initiative”. We don't agree on all the issues, but of course we're going to keep talking”, he added.