Goffus in Brussels with delegations from Belgrade and Pristina: Decisions on the Ibar Bridge should be made through dialogue

Source: Reporteri

NATO Assistant Secretary General for Operations, Thomas Goffus, held separate meetings in Brussels today with delegations from Belgrade and Pristina, stating that the Alliance fully supports the EU-led dialogue process. He emphasized that decisions regarding the opening of the Ibar Bridge must be made through dialogue, with timely and effective coordination with the international community, and in a way that does not jeopardize the safety of local communities or NATO troops.

The meetings took place on the sidelines of the EU-supported dialogue, hosted by the EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue and other Western Balkan issues, Miroslav Lajcak, according to a statement from KFOR.

Goffus discussed the security situation in Kosovo with representatives from both sides and addressed the security concerns related to the potential opening of road traffic on the Ibar Bridge in North Mitrovica.

He stressed the need for an inclusive and lasting solution.

"Decisions must be made through dialogue, with timely and effective coordination with the international community, and in a way that does not endanger the safety of local communities or NATO troops. The KFOR mission, led by NATO, is mandated by the UN to address all security concerns and to ensure a safe and secure environment," Goffus stated, as reported by KFOR.

He added that KFOR will continue to maintain its constant presence at the bridge and conduct regular patrols in the surrounding areas.

Goffus reiterated NATO’s full support for the dialogue on the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina, with EU support.

"This is the framework for resolving outstanding issues and achieving solutions that respect the rights of all communities, which is key to lasting security in Kosovo and stability across the Western Balkans," the statement added.

NATO has a long-standing partnership with the European Union and will continue to work closely to support regional stability.