Peach: UK supports normalization of relations and the EU's calls for de-escalation in the North

The United Kingdom's Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Stuart Peach, stated that the UK strongly supported the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina, as well as the European Union's calls for de-escalation in northern Kosovo, calling on the Serbs to return to institutions and urging the Kosovo side to enable new elections in four municipalities as soon as possible.

"UK is engaged with both sides in the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina. We strongly support the path of normalization of relations. At this moment, we continue to support the European Union's calls for de-escalation, which I have also conveyed during my visits, and the continuation of the dialogue. I want to emphasize how urgent it is to proceed with that. In our history and during my nearly half-century experience in the military, it's always good to talk," Peach said to N1.

Responding to questions about his meetings with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti and Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic, Peach noted that he had the privilege of meeting leaders from the entire region and enjoyed engaging in conversations with them.

Regarding the escalation of the situation in the north, Peach emphasized that the UK called on both sides to de-escalate.

"We call for Kosovo Serbs to return to institutions to achieve balance and fairness in the police. They should return to normal police activities as soon as possible and enable the genuine rooting of democracy at the local level, including local elections. We expect the highest possible turnout and participation from all sides in these local elections," he added.

Asked about tensions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Peach stated that the UK supported the Euro-Atlantic integration of all countries in the region, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, and welcomed their candidate status for the European Union.

Regarding sanctions against Zeljka Cvijanovic and Milorad Dodik, Peach said that when imposing sanctions, they did so with numerous evidence and data, and for good reasons.

"We continue to support the new government in Bosnia and Herzegovina and welcome their progress. We continue to encourage that progress in every way possible as they move forward. This involves the rule of law, a better future, economic development, direct foreign investment... in short, efforts to ensure a better life 28 years after the end of that conflict," he added.

In his view, the speech of European Council President Charles Michel at the Bled Strategic Forum regarding the Western Balkans' accession to the EU by 2030 is crucial to establishing a vision and highlighting the EU's support for that endeavor.

"The UK Government supports this endeavor—we call it the 'Euro-Atlantic journey,' which naturally indicates that NATO is part of our common future. Let's not forget that, after Russia's aggression against Ukraine, the need for a joint future in terms of security and prosperity has never been as apparent as it is now. The EU brings both of these elements to this region," he continued.

Peach pointed out that the EU accession process was complicated, and it was important for the EU to clearly communicate to the people in the region that it brought them a better and more prosperous future.

"It's evident that the European path triggers both hope and dissatisfaction. The role of the UK is to support EU accession and, of course, where we can, work with each country on a bilateral basis," he added.

Regarding the region's changing situation due to Russian influence, Peach stated that it would be wrong to say that Russian influence had suddenly appeared in 2022.

"Russian influence has existed in this region for a long time, and the region is, of course, a product of its history, geographical location, and culture. In that history and geographical position, there have been many examples of Russian influence. So, there's nothing new here. What's new is that the mask of the Russian regime has fallen, and they have been exposed in this war in Ukraine," he said.

He emphasized that the UK Government strongly supported Ukraine, its territorial integrity, and its sovereignty, and would continue on that path.

He called on all countries in the region to continue condemning Russian aggression and to be aware when Russian influence offers a toxic or empty alternative to Euro-Atlantic integration.

Speaking about media freedom, Peach noted that it was an important topic and added that in the era of social media, sometimes the speed at which information was spread mattered, and other times it was essential to verify facts.

Peach said that he saw extremely talented people in the region, in a beautiful environment with splendid natural resources and great potential to harness modern economies.

"I see the perspective of a digital, ecological economy in these beautiful landscapes and achieving energy independence with better, modern, and connected infrastructure, including railways, ports, and airports. I see the perspective of being part of the Euro-Atlantic community, which is part of the European continent. We are in Europe—let's work together to be a part of Europe," Peach concluded.