Ashton: The idea of CSM arose in an attempt to solve the problem in the north of Kosovo

The former high representative of the European Union, Catherine Ashton, said that the idea of the Community of Serbian Municipalities arose as an attempt to solve a specific problem such as the north of Kosovo, reports Gazeta Express.

Ashton pointed out that the idea was to ensure a good relationship between the government in Pristina and the Serbs living in the north.

"One of the problems was how to ensure a solid relationship between the Pristina government and the people living in the north, especially the Serbs. So, the Association stems from the idea of improving that situation and doing it in a way that is in line with EU law." Ashton stated.

She added that the Government of Kosovo should work on the formation of the CSM, as this would enable dialogue with the Serbs in the north and facilitate negotiations in Brussels.

"Everything that takes a long time to solve is not good. I call on both sides to start a dialogue about it as soon as possible," Ashton said.

Regarding the statement of the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, who said yesterday in Brussels that "the time of Ashton, Thaci and Dacic has passed", she stated that this was true, but that the legacy remained.

According to her, the commitment of the EU representative for dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia, Miroslav Lajcak, to resolve the situation is great.

"There are many things you can do in life, but he chose to be that person knowing that it won't be easy. And I think it's fantastic that he is willing to spend his time and energy to help the people of Kosovo and Serbia resolve their mutual problems," said Ashton.

She added that it was up to the EU to decide when it would end the measures it had introduced in Kosovo.

"They will do that when they think the situation has improved. In any government, it's really important to make sure you're always looking for ways to de-escalate the situation. The responsibility of leaders and authorities is great. The first responsibility is to ensure safety for the people. You have to try to solve problems, wherever from they come, regardless of what causes them. So I would say to every government, and to the current one, the more you work, the better," said Ashton.