PRISTINA, Kosovo — On a significant visit to the historically tense Western Balkans, NATO’s secretary general highlighted the alliance’s firm dedication to regional security, while urging Kosovo and Serbia to exhibit flexibility in their ongoing discussions aimed at normalizing relations.
During his visit to Kosovo, following a stop in Bosnia where he affirmed NATO’s unwavering support for its territorial integrity amidst rising tensions spurred by Bosnian Serb separatist actions, he emphasized the critical nature of peace in the region. “A secure Western Balkans region equates to enhanced security throughout the Euro-Atlantic area,” he stated. He cautioned that decades of peace hard-earned must not be put at risk.
Kosovo announced its independence from Serbia in 2008, a declaration coming about a decade after the 1998-1999 conflict where Serbian forces clashed with ethnic Albanian separatists. This conflict concluded with a 78-day NATO bombardment that expelled Serbian forces. Despite this, Serbia still does not acknowledge Kosovo’s sovereignty.
NATO oversees the Kosovo Force, or KFOR, which comprises around 4,700 troops from 29 nations to maintain peace. Its presence has been bolstered following recent tensions within the region. “KFOR stands ready to respond to any security developments,” the NATO chief remarked.
The ongoing dialogues between Kosovo and Serbia are vital, according to NATO’s head, describing them as the sole means to resolve ongoing issues and ensure a stable future.
Initiated in 2011, these normalization talks, facilitated by the European Union, have seen limited progress and are currently stalled. Both the EU and the United States have urged Kosovo and Serbia to uphold agreements made two years ago. These agreements include Kosovo’s commitment to establishing an Association of Serb-Majority Municipalities and Serbia’s obligation towards de facto recognition of Kosovo.
Brussels has made it known that the normalization of relations is crucial for the two countries’ future integration into the EU.
“To advance these discussions, both sides need to demonstrate flexibility, make necessary compromises, and prioritize long-term benefits,” he asserted. “Normalization will bring increased stability, more investment opportunities, and enduring security across the entire region, benefiting everyone involved.”
