Stano: Dialogue can lead to solutions and eliminate tensions

NEWS 01.08.202215:40
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The European Union (EU) is certain that the EU-mediated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina can lead to solutions and eliminate tensions in Kosovo, European Commission spokesperson Peter Stano said Monday in Brussels.

Stano added that the EU would not have become involved if it was not convinced that a solution will be found and called on both sides to come to Brussels for talks.

EU believes it is important that all those involved in the uncoordinated and unilateral actions that jeopardize peace and stability in the field and prevent freedom of movement cease their actions immediately, Stano said.

Dialogue and negotiations are the only way to resolve disputes, especially this last one, Stano said, adding that the EU and its members are monitoring the events in northern Kosovo with special attention and concern.

The EU was and is in touch with both sides, we are working in coordination with the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) and NATO, with the KFOR mission in the field as well as with international partners, especially with the US, and our goal is for tensions to be alleviated, Stano said.

He said EU High Representative Josep Borrell and EU Special Representative Miroslav Lajcak have spoken to both sides and, after Kosovo accepted the US and High Representative’s request to postpone the measures that had caused the unrest, the EU invited both sides to Brussels to try to find a solution and prevent such situations from happening again.

Stano reiterated that all outstanding issues between Serbia and Kosovo have to be resolved through a dialogue mediated by the EU.

This is important for the people in both Kosovo and in Serbia and it is important for both sides’ European perspective, said Stano, adding that both Serbia and Kosovo know well that the normalization of their relations is of great importance for their path to the EU.