Varhelyi asks Kurti a swift resumption of Kosovo-Serbia Dialogue

English

Gazeta Express

13/04/2021 13:53

Turning Kosovo’s European perspective into a reality for its citizens requires a swift continuation of the EU-facilitated Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue and the comprehensive normalisation of relations with Serbia, EU Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Oliver Varhelyi wrote in a letter sent to Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti.

Congratulating Kurti on the formation of the new Government and his appointment as Prime Minister of Kosovo, Varhelyi said that the people of Kosovo gave Kurti a strong mandate for reforms to strengthen the rule of law and to promote socio-economic development and a shift towards a greener economy.

“The European Union stands ready to support you in this regard, building on the progress that has been achieved over the past years and on key existing reform commitments and achievements, such as the European Reform Agenda. Moreover, as part ofthe European Commission’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans, we look forward to working together on completing strategic projects in Kosovo and on supporting further regional economic integration in particular through the creation of a Common Regional Market,” Varhelyi wrote on his letter. He said that the European Commission is also committed to continue advocating for a positive EU decision on visa liberalisation for Kosovo citizens.

“Turning Kosovo’s European perspective into a reality for its citizens also requires a swift continuation of the EU-facilitated Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue and the comprehensive normalisation of relations with Serbia. This is crucial for the respective European path of Kosovo and Serbia and for improving regional cooperation,” Varhelyi said in his letter.

Kurti during the election campaign has stated that the Dialogue with Serbia is not among his main priorities adding that facing COVID-19 pandemic, justice and social welfare are the top priorities of his Government. /GazetaExpress/