Western nations expect more understanding of EU proposal for Serbia, Kosovo: Special envoy
BELGRADE, Serbia (AA) – The EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue has said that Western countries expect more understanding of the European Union’s proposal for normalizing ties between Serbia and Kosovo.
Miroslav Lajcak’s remarks came after his meeting with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti in the Kosovan capital of Pristina along with a delegation of representatives from the EU, the US, Germany, France and Italy.
”It is too early to make dramatic statements because, as you know, we are in the middle of our mission and will go to Belgrade. So, there isn’t much I can say. I think we expected a great understanding of the possibilities that this proposal offers. I hope that we will reach the goal and we will continue to engage in that direction,” he said.
Lajcak said the meeting with Kurti was not easy but honest and open.
“We spent more than two hours with the prime minister, which tells you that the meeting was long but not easy and very honest and open,” Lajcak told reporters.
The delegation also met Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Belgrade.
Kosovo-Serbia dialogue process
The European Union requires Kosovo and Serbia to reach a final agreement that can resolve issues between the two countries for progress in the integration process.
Muslim-majority Kosovo with ethnic Albanian population declared its independence from the Slavic nationalist state of Serbia in 2008 after a long struggle, with the UN recognizing it as an autonomous country. However, Serbia continues to regard it as its territory.
Lately, the parties have been negotiating what is popularly known as the Franco-German proposal, supported by the US and all members of the EU.
Vucic said in October that Germany and France offered to expedite Serbia’s EU membership process if it recognized Kosovo’s independence and allowed it to become a member of international organizations.
EU officials hope talks on the plan will be completed in the spring.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
