The European Commission is urging Kosovo and Serbia to act swiftly to implement the Ohrid Agreement, aimed at normalizing relations. This call forms part of the draft Progress Reports for both nations, which are set for approval in Brussels at the end of this month.
Sources from Radio Free Europe reveal that both countries are reminded their ambitions for EU membership hinge on this process. While Kosovo and Serbia have engaged in dialogue, the Commission emphasizes the need for a more serious and constructive commitment.
Officials warn against actions and rhetoric that could threaten stability. They highlight Serbia’s failure to hold accountable those responsible for recent attacks on the Kosovo Police and Kosovo’s slow progress in establishing the Association of Serb-majority municipalities.
One section of the draft states, “The process of normalization continues to be affected by the lack of sufficient steps by Serbia to ensure accountability.” The Commission calls for Serbia to fully cooperate in bringing the perpetrators to justice swiftly.
Tensions remain high in northern Kosovo, home to a significant Serb population. The reports also point to “uncoordinated” actions by Kosovo authorities, which may have exacerbated the situation. Additionally, the ongoing boycott of Kosovo’s institutions by Serbian representatives poses a serious setback.
The European Commission insists that both parties respect the Agreement on official visits, allowing chief negotiators to meet in each other’s countries. It also emphasizes the importance of Kosovo’s participation in regional initiatives.
Moreover, Kosovo is urged to initiate the establishment of the Association of municipalities with a Serbian majority, using a draft statute proposed by several European countries as a basis. This proposal aligns with Kosovo’s Constitution and European best practices.
For Serbia, the reports affirm that fulfilling the normalization agreement is crucial for its EU membership negotiations, particularly under chapter 35, while rule of law issues will be addressed in chapter 23.
The enlargement package, including Progress Reports for ten countries, will be finalized at the European Commission meeting on Wednesday, October 30, in Brussels. This meeting marks the final report under the current Commission before a new five-year term begins.
