EU: We are closely monitoring the case of Igor Popovic; only dialogue can lead to progress in normalization of relations

The EU is closely monitoring the case of Igor Popovic and has taken note of the verdict of the Basic Court in Pristina, the EU spokesperson said in a written response to Kosovo Online, also calling for the avoidance of actions and statements that do not contribute to the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina.

Five days after Igor Popovic, Assistant to the Director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija, was detained at the Brnjak crossing, the European Union issued its first official statement. In the response sent to our portal, they emphasize that they expect full respect for the rule of law and due process.

"Any measure involving deprivation of liberty must be justified and proportionate. Only through dialogue can progress be made in the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina. Statements and actions that do not contribute to this goal should be avoided," the EU spokesperson's response concludes.

By decision of the Basic Court in Pristina, Popovic was placed in 30-day detention. Other international representatives have also reacted to the detention of the Serbian official.