EULEX: We do not have static patrols on the bridge over the Ibar, the interests of all communities should be taken into account

The European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) said it does not have a mandate to conduct static patrols on the bridge over the Ibar, but that the mission’s Formed Police Unit continues to regularly conduct mobile reconnaissance patrols in the area.

EULEX told Front Online that the mission will continue close cooperation with the Kosovo Police and KFOR.

“EULEX does not have a mandate to conduct static patrols on the bridge. However, the EULEX Formed Police Unit regularly conducts mobile reconnaissance patrols, including, but not limited to, the area around the bridge,” the response said.

According to the EULEX statement, cooperation with KFOR and the police takes place within the framework of Kosovo’s three-tier security response mechanism.

Asked how it currently assesses the security situation in North Mitrovica, particularly in the area around the bridge over the Ibar, EULEX gave a brief assessment:

“The security situation is calm and stable,” the mission said in its response.

EULEX calls for all communities to be taken into account when opening the bridge.

Regarding whether the necessary security conditions have been created to open the bridge to traffic, EULEX did not directly answer whether the bridge should be opened, but referred to the European Union’s position.

As EULEX emphasized, the bridge should serve all the communities and municipalities it connects, as well as contribute to cooperation and good relations among them.

“It is important that the Kosovo Police guarantees the security and protection of all communities, in accordance with democratic principles, human rights and the rule of law, so that everyone feels safe,” EULEX said in its response.

EULEX emphasizes that any decision regarding the bridge over the Ibar should take into account the interests and concerns of all communities.