Kaja Kallas in North Mitrovica: It's important to hear citizens' voices and understand the reality on the ground

The European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, stated during her visit to North Mitrovica that the presence of international actors on the ground is crucial in order to gain an accurate picture of the situation and challenges in the region.

"First of all, it is important to be here in the north of Kosovo because we see many different narratives. It is essential to witness what is happening on the ground and to hear what people are saying," Kallas said, noting that she visited the local court and schools to get first-hand information about conditions and the functioning of institutions.

She emphasized that the court is currently operating, but that they are awaiting the return of Serbian judges, which is a key challenge for the judiciary in that part of Kosovo.

Kallas added that she spoke with the KFOR commander and representatives of the EU rule of law mission to gain as objective a view of the situation as possible.

"One side says one thing, the other says something else. However, the international forces present here provide an adequate and balanced picture. It is also important to talk to local people and hear their experiences," she added.

She concluded that her goal is for the EU, based on the information gathered, to work toward a future in Kosovo that is “prosperous and secure for everyone.”