Hovenier: I expect the Kosovo Government to take steps for de-escalation in the north

The US Ambassador to Kosovo, Jeffrey Hovenier, again called on the Government of Kosovo today to take measures to de-escalate the situation in the north and pointed out that Belgrade and Pristina should start implementing the obligations from the Ohrid Agreement, Reporteri reports.

He pointed out that the cessation of tensions in the north and acceptance of obligations from the Ohrid Agreement would help Kosovo in Euro-Atlantic integration.

"We believe it is important to achieve further de-escalation in the north and avoid cases where violent acts occur. This helps Kosovo achieve Euro-Atlantic integration," Hovenier said.

He emphasized that the goal was for both sides to turn to the implementation of the Ohrid Agreement, and reiterated that the Kosovo government was expected to take steps for de-escalation in the north.

"There is an agreement between Kosovo and Serbia. This is the Ohrid Agreement and our focus is to implement this agreement on both sides. We expect the Government of Kosovo to create circumstances and take actions that will de-escalate the situation in order to create opportunities to fulfill the conditions for the implementation of responsibilities of both countries. It is important for Kosovo to urgently work on negotiations with the local Serbs so that they can be a part of the process," the US Ambassador said.

According to him, the Government of Serbia must deal with its obligations in coordination with the international community.

"I hope and I think that conflict is not the solution," Hovenier concluded.