German Emissary: Serbia forget EU without knowing Kosovo

He stressed that the EU is at the helm of negotiations between Kosovo and Serbia and that it is necessary to reach an agreement as soon as possible between the two sides, as well as that it is important that representatives of Serbs join Kosovo institutions as soon as possible.

In the interview, Sarrazin also commented on messages coming from Belgrade in the past, such as the one Serbia's president “does not trust Germany”, as well as on why Germany is not satisfied with Serbia's democratic progress and at the same time warned there are doubts from the German economy about how Serbia is currently developing.

How did Germany experience the protests of Serbs from Kosovo and the barricades in the north in late December?

The situation in northern Kosovo, from a German point of view, was very dangerous. It's still too dangerous. We have a situation where basic state services, such as security services, currently cannot provide security for Serbs, but also for other Kosovo citizens. Therefore, I think it is important to accelerate the process of returning Serbs to Kosovo institutions. I personally understand the emotions of Serbs from the north of Kosovo, but most importantly for them is for the international community to do everything to prevent the escalation of conflict. This is one of the reasons why we support Miroslav Lajcak and the European Union, to contribute to the deextling of the situation on the ground through dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia. We understand that everything hasn't ended yet, but at least the tension is obviously lower than it was in December.

Does the German-French proposal, which has already been made a European proposal for resolving Kosovo's status, mean that Serbia should recognise Kosovo's independence at the end of the negotiation process?

We from Germany have always had a very clear position on this issue at the end of the process of normalising relations, when Serbia decides for EU membership, recognition of Kosovo will be part of the process. I would not very much link him to the European proposal, but there is something Germany certainly expects, and this was clearly said when Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited Serbia in June last year.

Why doesn't this proposal become public? What's the reason he's hiding?

For us the international community, Mr. Lajcak and all our colleagues working on this European proposal are important to create an atmosphere of trust first. Everyone feels that it is best to create an atmosphere of understanding and trust in which leaders can discuss the subject without thinking that something will be published. At the same time, I understand that for the people of Serbia and Kosovo, this is an important and sensitive topic, not only for politicians, but also for the future of the two countries, and that it has not been published as such and that for this reason. Public debate is reduced to gossip and information that is often incorrect. I understand the interest, but I also urge people to understand the delicateness of the situation and to be convinced that this is the right way.

And how long will the public hide this proposal?

I can't predict this because I don't take responsibility for what happens in this process. I can only convey my sincere view of this process, which I believe is very useful and offers great opportunities for both sides to get rid of the past, but also to release the great potential the region has on the road to Europe. I think this debate is taking place in that direction both leaders, Mr. Mr. Wuch and Mr. Kurti, they are given the opportunity to be more clear and sincere in presenting their strategic goals in dialogue. Of course, if an agreement is reached, it will not be the end. There will still be a lot of work, but it would be a big step forward and I think it would represent a great opportunity for the region. This is a great opportunity and we see much more by saying, not only about dialogue, but also about the region itself.