Ibër Bridge issue, tensions in the north, what official said NATO during Kosovo visit

At these meetings, Goffus also discussed the issue of opening the main bridge over the Iber River, which divides Mitrovica in the south, inhabited by Albanian majority, and that of the north, inhabited by Serb majority.

He later during an interview on public television said uncoordinated actions, especially in northern Kosovo, could increase the risk of violence, which affects the security of all people in the country and jeopardises KFOR troops.

Over the past year we have increased the number of troops in Kosovo, so that we unfortunately address a more challenging security environment and the resurface of tensions. This shows once again the quick commitment of NATO allies and partners to preserve security along Kosovo and the Balkans in general”, Goffus said.

He said the addition of military troops, necessary immediately, is not the solution to a long-term peace in Kosovo, the solution is political.

The “is essential for both Pristina and Belgrade to be constructively involved in the EU-led dialogue to resolve the remaining issues. We continue to call on all sides to install agreements reached without delay. As we have seen unexpected and uncoordinated actions, especially in northern Kosovo, may increase the risk of violence, which affects the safety of all people in Kosovo, and endangers KFOR troops”, he said.

Guffus added that this compounds the concern of NATO and partners for the stability of the region and Kosovo and the security of its troops. He said KFOR soldiers remain committed to duty, especially in northern Kosovo, with regular patrols and closely monitoring the situation on the ground.

“They are working over and over again to keep the situation calm, implanting the UN mandate. I've told everyone I've talked to, which is important to have co-ordination with NATO on a range of issues including the Ibër Bridge.

Meanwhile, in a presidency announcement, after Osman's meeting with Assistant Secretary Goffus is said to have declared that Kosovo remains committed to continued co-operation with NATO and KFOR in addressing challenges in the field of security.

Osmani reiterated during the meeting that Kosovo authorities should consult and co-ordinate with NATO in particular for building a joint plan for the opening of the flow bridge and vehicles, according to the announcement.

“President Osmani has reiterated the position for opening the bridge, but has highlighted the importance of maintaining communication, co-ordination and deepening co-operation between our institutions and our security partners, especially with NATO, for drafting a joint implementation plan for the opening of the” bridge, the announcement said.

Osmani has named the opening of the bridge a “function of normalisation and integration in the interest of all citizens, indiscriminately including ethnicity”.

Prime Minister Albin Kurti has also announced the meeting with NATO official.

In this post, Kurt has not mentioned the issue of the Ibër Bridge at all, although yesterday he stated that at the meeting with him and the top diplomats coming to the country next week will be discussed for the opening plan, Reporter.net writes.

Kurti has said that along with NATO and friends and allies, we remain committed to preserving peace and security in the region, as we enhance close and regular co-operation with each other”.

“Rule of Law rule remains primary. We will continue to protect the citizens of the territory, sovereignty and democracy, independence and freedom, as well as our progress and prosperity”, Kurti wrote.