Kallas: Closure of institutions in the North undermines efforts toward de-escalation

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, stated today in Pristina that de-escalation of the situation in the north is a prerequisite for lifting the EU’s measures on Kosovo, noting that the closure of institutions undermines efforts toward de-escalation.

In her address to the media, Kallas emphasized that normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia is a key priority.

“You are equal partners at the table. I support this process. And to those who doubt it—normalization is the only path to a safer and more prosperous future. Stability is built through dialogue, not confrontation,” Kallas stated.

She noted that the EU is gradually lifting the measures imposed on Kosovo, but that full removal remains contingent on de-escalation in the north.

“Closing institutions undermines the efforts toward de-escalation,” she stressed.

When asked about the current status of the measures and who is blocking the process, she replied that she is personally advocating to EU member states for the measures to be lifted.

“However, some argue that Kosovo must uphold the Ohrid Agreement, and that actions being taken in the north are not contributing to de-escalation,” Kallas reiterated.

Regarding the Kosovo–Serbia dialogue, Kallas said she is ready to invest her time and energy into the normalization process.

“This is in the interest of the people of Kosovo and Serbia. We now have a new Special Representative, Peter Sørensen, with whom I discussed the current situation and what steps can be taken. We need to meet separately with both sides to determine the way forward,” she emphasized.

She reiterated that the Ohrid Agreement is in effect and that both parties must implement it.

The EU’s top diplomat also underlined that the Western Balkans are of strategic importance to the EU, and that enlargement toward the region is both a major project and her personal priority.

She added that it is encouraging that EU membership is supported by the majority of Kosovo’s citizens and across the political spectrum.

“Kosovo belongs to the European family, but there are no shortcuts to membership. Reforms are necessary, and the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans is a significant opportunity for gradual integration into the single market. Kosovo must first adopt a reform agenda in order to benefit,” Kallas stated.

For this to happen, she emphasized, functional institutions capable of implementing reforms are essential.

“I urge all political parties to work toward the swift formation of a government, because Kosovo can only benefit from our support,” Kallas said.

Following her remarks in Pristina, the EU High Representative is scheduled to hold separate meetings with political party leaders as well as representatives of civil society organizations.

This marks her second visit to the Western Balkans in her role as High Representative of the EU. She arrived in Belgrade last night, where she was welcomed at Nikola Tesla Airport by Foreign Minister Marko Djuric. Her visit to North Macedonia is planned for tomorrow.