Ashton: The dialogue process has never been easy; implementation of reached agreements is crucial

Former High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs Catherine Ashton stated that the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina had never been an easy process, but implementing the reached agreements had always been more challenging, and she added that she hoped to see progress in that process in the coming months.

In Pristina, during the Balkans Group conference titled "Dialogue with Serbia: Lessons from the Past for the Future of the Process," Ashton said that the time spent in the dialogue had been tough and challenging, at times very complicated, but that they had engaged in it because of the belief that the future of this region lied in the EU.

"It is important for all countries in the region to become EU members. I speak as someone from a country that has exited the EU, but from my experience, I can say that it is essential for Kosovo and other states to become part of the EU. It is the best way to achieve economic progress and stability. I believe in it, and I will continue to believe in it," Ashton stated.

As she emphasized, the implementation of reached agreements is crucial as it contributes to a better life for people in Kosovo and Serbia.

"This doesn't belong to me; it belongs to you and Serbia. You were the ones leading the dialogue. When I wrote my book, I tried to explain that we were there to assist and support, but the most significant work was done by people in meetings between Kosovo and Serbia and many officials who worked diligently on technical details and things that needed to happen," she stated.

According to Ashton, the dialogue with Serbia is the best way for Kosovo to move forward.

"To do something significant and courageous, you need to be resolute and ready to change the situation. You need to be prepared for compromise. In the EU, there are 27 countries seeking compromises daily to achieve the best results. You shouldn't give up on your principles or the path your country should take, but you need to find a way to make changes and move forward in small steps that will help create big ideas," Ashton said.

She expressed hope that in the months ahead, we would see progress in the dialogue.

"It won't be easy, but I hope it will happen. Many people want to see success, especially Miroslav Lajcak, whose work isn't always appreciated as much as it should be. He worked for me and with me for many years, and he is someone who genuinely believes in the future of Kosovo," Ashton concluded.

The conference in Pristina was attended by American diplomat Philip Reeker, who was one of the speakers, as well as US Ambassador to Pristina Jeffrey Hovenier, President of the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo Ramush Haradinaj, former Prime Minister of Kosovo Avdulalh Hoti, and former Kosovo Minister of Foreign Affairs Enver Hoxhaj.