EP: Kosovo- Serbia has produced expected results, implemented Ohrid Agreement, including Association

It is clear that Kosovo's integration process needs a new momentum. We need a new chapter of talks between Pristina and Belgrade. It is extremely positive that all major political parties in Kosovo strongly support EU integration. Kosovo's future lies in the European family and we will work together in the reform agenda because any membership in the future should be based on”, said EP rapporteur for Kosovo Riho Terras.

According to the Eurodeputs, dialogue on normalising reports between Kosovo and Serbia, “has unfortunately failed to produce expected results”, as they urged both sides to implement the Brussels and Ohrid agreements, including the establishment of the Association of Serb majority municipalities and that Serbia not object to Kosovo's membership in regional and international organisations.

Due to crises in Kosovo's north, which raised tensions between the two countries, no round of political dialogue has been held since September 2023 in Brussels, but only talks at the level of chief negotiators have been held.

The EU has repeatedly reiterated that normalising reports between Kosovo and Serbia is a prerequisite for the two countries' path towards European integration.

Lately, EU foreign policy chief and security Kaya Kallas has said Brussels is analyzing mistakes in the dialogue process, which started in 2011.

Meanwhile, in the report for Kosovo, The EP said the state has made notable progress in election reform, economic sustainability and protection of fundamental rights.

However, challenges remain in terms of reforms in the judiciary, media freedom, efficiency of public administration and digitalisation of public services. The Eurodeputs stressed that the continued commitment of inclusive reforms and inclusive governance is essential for Kosovo's progress on the road to European integration.

The Eurodeputs also said Kosovo has been the target of foreign interventions and disinforming campaigns, separately from Russia and China, aimed at destabilising the region and obstructing the European integration of the Western Balkans.

Therefore, the European Parliament “calls on the Government of Kosovo to strengthen its capacities to fight these threats”, the EP said.

On May 7th, Eurodeputs have also adopted a report on Serbia, which was asked to improve internal political dialogue, protect rule of law and make anti-corruption reforms.

Meanwhile, in terms of dialogue with Kosovo, the report said Serbia “should work on reaching a comprehensive normalisation agreement with Kosovo”, but also on “fully harmonise its foreign policy with that of the EU”. / REL

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