Hill: Dialogue has no alternative, the Community of Serb Municipalities must be established, I’m disappointed it hasn't happened yet

"I see no alternative to dialogue, and the Community of Serb Municipalities (CSM) must be established," reiterated U.S. Ambassador to Belgrade Christopher Hill, reports Euronews.

Speaking on the program Sunday with Subotic, Hill stated that relations between Serbia and the United States are good, with Serbs and Americans cooperating and sharing similar views on many global issues, Euronews reports.

When asked how strong the partnership can be if Belgrade and Washington differ on key issues such as Kosovo, Hill acknowledged certain differences in viewpoints, including on that matter.

"We simply have to acknowledge these differences, understand them, and then try to overcome them. That doesn’t mean we will resolve them—perhaps over time—but what’s important is to find common ground and areas where we can work together. I believe we’re doing just that, despite certain differences," Hill said.

On Dialogue Between Belgrade and Pristina

Discussing the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, Hill said it’s difficult to predict how it will develop and expressed disappointment, like many others, that some issues remain unresolved.

"There have been efforts to reach agreements on specific issues, including the Community of Serb Municipalities. This should have been implemented 12 years ago, yet it still hasn’t been done. There’s much work to be done. Instead of analyzing how these problems are addressed, it’s crucial to explore the available options, and dialogue always remains the best approach," Hill said.

He added that strengthening dialogue is essential and suggested enhancing mechanisms to ensure its success.

"I believe we need stronger mechanisms to support the dialogue. This is crucial, and I see no alternative to dialogue. We need to consider whether the mediator’s authority can be enhanced. There’s much to think about. Holidays are approaching, a new administration is coming to the U.S., the European Commission will also see a new administration, and elections in Kosovo are scheduled for February. There’s a significant need to thoroughly examine all these issues. Considering the broader international challenges and existing problems, this issue should be solvable. We must put in more effort," Hill emphasized.

On the Community of Serb Municipalities

Hill stressed the importance of establishing the Community of Serb Municipalities, calling it "the best solution" and reiterating U.S. support for its creation.

"I think logic will eventually prevail, and that logic entails the formation of this community. Like others, I’m disappointed it hasn’t happened yet, but I see no reason why it couldn’t in the future," Hill said.

He added that forming the CSM was rational 12 years ago and remains so today, though he acknowledged that sometimes good initiatives take time to materialize.

"This is one of those issues. It’s a good thing that should be implemented, and over time, I believe it will be," he stated.

Hill also noted that both Washington and Brussels agree on the importance of the dialogue’s success.

"If you look at the fact that it hasn’t succeeded, it’s essential to reassess some weaknesses and see what can be improved. I respect the fact that the European Union leads this dialogue—they recognized the need for it. It’s crucial for Americans to support this effort and explore ways to assist. We are strong advocates of the EU, which has achieved many positive things in this region. We must find new ways to help them because the dialogue must succeed and needs assistance," the ambassador underlined.

On the Ibar-Lepenac Channel Incident

Commenting on the recent incident at the Ibar-Lepenac channel, Hill stressed the need for a credible investigation to determine what happened and who is responsible.

"I don’t believe there’s sufficient basis at this point to point fingers at anyone. What’s important is conducting a credible investigation. The Serbian government has supported a thorough investigation from the start. With international participation, including U.S. involvement, and hopefully the EU, I believe efforts will be made to reach a result. This could have been a significant problem, but fortunately, it was resolved within an hour, and things normalized within days. However, this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t determine what happened and who is responsible," Hill stated.

On Upcoming Elections in Kosovo

Discussing the elections scheduled for February 9 in Kosovo, Hill emphasized the importance of Serbian community participation.

"I believe it’s extremely important for the Serbian community in Kosovo to participate in the elections, and I’m glad they will. As for how they participate and the political formations within the Serbian community in Kosovo, that’s up to them. We would like to see everyone participate in the elections. We never support election boycotts," Hill noted.

On Opening EU Accession Clusters

When asked whether the U.S. supports the opening of Cluster 3 in Serbia’s EU accession process, Hill confirmed support but clarified that the decision lies with the EU, not the U.S.

"The United States supports the opening of Cluster 3, but it’s not up to us—it’s up to Europe. It’s crucial for Americans to support Europe, but it’s equally important for us not to tell them what to do. This is something Europeans must decide for themselves, with their 27 member states. As I mentioned earlier, good things take time, and I believe Serbia’s accession to the EU, provided Serbia wants it—which I think it does—would be highly positive for Serbia and Europe. I hope the issues related to clusters and chapters will be resolved. We would, of course, like to help, but I’m not here to speak on behalf of the EU," Hill said.

He added that the U.S. wants Serbia to join the EU, as it would benefit both Serbia and the EU.

"We all advocate for this, but as American ambassadors, we always support those who want to join the EU. However, it’s not our decision—it’s the EU’s. There are rules and procedures, and with 27 member states, the process becomes more complicated as new members join. We want to help, not criticize or lecture the EU," Hill concluded.