We expect timely consultation on any action of the Kosovo Police that could impact the security environment

by Cristian Florescu

On Thursday, Jens Stoltenberg, the Secretary General of NATO, held a meeting with Vjosa Osmani, the President of Kosovo, to address the recent conflicts in the northern region of Kosovo. The discussion also emphasized the significance of NATO’s peacekeeping mission, known as KFOR, which operates under the authority of the United Nations.

Stoltenberg expressed his appreciation for the recent measures undertaken by Pristina to alleviate tensions, such as the reduction of special police forces in the northern region and the forthcoming facilitation of municipal elections. However, he emphasized the utmost importance of preventing any further escalation. Consequently, he earnestly urged all parties involved to refrain from using provocative language and to exercise self-control by their established obligations.

In the press conference alongside Kosovo President, Stoltenberg emphasized the significance of upholding current obligations by all stakeholders to maintain regional stability and ensure the safety of KFOR troops. He also drew attention to the unfortunate incident in May, wherein 93 soldiers were subjected to an attack resulting in varying degrees of injuries, including some severe cases. Stoltenberg strongly condemned this reprehensible act as entirely unacceptable.

He referred to the commitment that Kosovo made ten years ago, in which they promised to not deploy Kosovo Security Forces in the northern region without obtaining prior consultation and approval from the commander of the Kosovo Force (KFOR).

According to Stoltenberg’s statement during the press conference, by Pristina’s commitment made in 2013, the deployment of the Kosovo Security Force to the Northern region of Kosovo necessitates the approval of KFOR. It is anticipated that there will be prompt and substantive consultation regarding any actions taken by the Kosovo Security Force or Kosovo Police that may affect the security situation. In light of the recent disturbances, NATO has dispatched a substantial number of additional troops to Kosovo.

In response to the inquiry posed by the journalist, Stoltenberg elucidated that this particular necessity is not a recent development.

“This is the basis of NATO’s long-standing existence. Any deployment of special forces requires the consent of KFOR, and then there needs to be a consensus between the authorities in Pristina and KFOR on any deployment that could affect our posture and security in Kosovo coordination and close consultation,” Stoltenberg said.

He expressed his approval for the upcoming round of the EU-mediated discussion between Belgrade and Pristina, scheduled to occur the following week. He asserted that engaging in dialogue is the sole means by which unresolved matters can be settled and a solution that upholds the rights of all communities can be reached. Stoltenberg further emphasized that this endeavour necessitates the virtues of patience, persistence, and willingness to make concessions.

Stoltenberg acknowledged his endorsement for dialogue and expressed approval for the forthcoming leaders’ meeting on 14 September in Brussels. Conversely, Vjosa Osmani, the President of Kosovo, voiced disapproval towards European mediators participating in the negotiation process and emphasized Pristina’s expectation of an equitable approach from the European Union.

The success of the process relies on the EU mediators adopting a fair and impartial approach. In the past, there have been instances where this balance was lacking. Therefore, all partners and Allies need to prioritize this equilibrium, emphasizing the principle of complete equality and equal standing for both parties involved. Only by doing so can we expect to achieve lasting results that genuinely foster peace, security, and stability in the region, according to Osmani.

The individual stated that currently, there is ongoing deliberation on a proposed order for the implementation of the agreements made in Brussels and Ohrid. It was further mentioned that Kosovo has been emphasizing the need for complete execution of the entirety of the agreement.

Osmani evaluated that while all articles in the agreement hold equal importance and have been pledged to be fully executed, it is crucial to acknowledge Serbia’s specific responsibilities, including refraining from opposing Kosovo’s accession to any global institution. Regrettably, Serbia has already breached this obligation.

Osmani concluded by accusing Serbia of persisting in its destabilization endeavours targeting the entire region, positing that not only does this jeopardize the stability of the Western Balkans, but it also poses a threat to the principles and ideals upheld by the European Union and NATO.

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