Ferguson: London wants the formation of the CSM and supports the EU in its efforts to establish it

The British Ambassador to Serbia, Edward Ferguson, stated that London is very much in favor of the formation of the Community of Serb Municipalities in Kosovo, as reported by Politika.

“We want to see the CSM established, and we continue to support the EU in that direction,” Ferguson said in an interview with Tanjug, responding to a question about whether the recent call by the EU Council to Pristina to form the CSM could be crucial in ensuring this 12-year-old obligation from the Brussels Agreement is finally fulfilled, especially considering that numerous international calls have not yet resulted in action.

The ambassador added that he could not make predictions but noted that those who attempted to do so were usually not very successful.

Ferguson emphasized that London would like the draft statute of the CSM, proposed by the EU, to be adopted.

“It is certainly important to continue insisting on the formation of the Community,” he added.

“We believe this is an important way to ensure services for the Serbian community in northern Kosovo,” Ferguson said, noting obligations taken on by Belgrade, such as not obstructing Pristina’s path to various international organizations.

The ambassador noted that London is dissatisfied with the security situation in Kosovo and is concerned about incidents, including attacks on NATO troops, the events in Banjska, and the explosion of a canal near Zubin Potok, which supplies water and energy to a large number of people from various ethnic groups.

“This is truly alarming, and it is essential to conduct a swift, efficient, and thorough investigation to identify those responsible, followed by swift justice. This is in everyone’s interest, not only in Kosovo and Serbia but across the entire region, to address threats to the region in a serious manner,” Ferguson stated, responding to questions about his impressions of northern Mitrovica and Gracanica and the assessment that the Serbian community is under stress and pressure, as well as what London and the Quint can do to prevent escalation and rising tensions.

He stressed the importance of ensuring that all communities are protected and feel safe.

“Our fundamental interest is maintaining peace and stability. What we fundamentally want is to see progress toward lasting peace. These issues need to be addressed in a multifaceted, strategic manner, and this truly requires political leadership from both sides, with both implementing their obligations undertaken in dialogue,” the British ambassador to Serbia said.

He also reminded that British soldiers remain part of the KFOR mission.