Petkovic with Due: Numerous examples of violations of the basic human and political rights of Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija

Director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija Petar Petkovic pointed out today, in talks with the head of UNMIK Peter Due, that through the announced implementation of the “so-called laws on foreigners and vehicles,” Pristina is seeking to further endanger numerous human rights of Serbs, and that it is of vital importance for UNMIK to treat this issue as a priority, since it is crucial to put a stop to such intentions of Pristina and guarantee essential existential rights for Serbs in Kosovo.

Petkovic informed Due about numerous examples of violations of the basic human and political rights of Serbs in Kosovo and about unilateral and unlawful actions by Pristina, the Office for Kosovo and Metohija said in a statement.

Extending wishes for a successful mandate to his interlocutor, given his extensive diplomatic experience and significant knowledge of conditions on the ground, Petkovic emphasized the importance of UNMIK’s activities in Kosovo in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244.

The Director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija expressed confidence that UNMIK would continue, through its reports, to consistently and dedicatedly address all violations of the rights of the Serbian people, which are endangered due to the almost daily anti-Serb and escalatory moves by Albin Kurti that, he noted, undermine peace and stability in Kosovo.

He stressed that Belgrade is committed and constructive in participating in the dialogue process with Pristina in Brussels with the aim of normalizing relations and resolving all open issues, while unequivocally insisting that concrete steps must be taken to form the Community of Serb Municipalities, which the Serbian people have been waiting for for almost 13 years.

“Unfortunately, on the other side of the negotiating table, Belgrade does not have a credible interlocutor ready for compromise,” Petkovic pointed out.

He warned that “by announcing the implementation of the so-called laws on foreigners and vehicles, Pristina is seeking to further endanger numerous human rights of Serbs that are guaranteed by international conventions as well, including, among others, the right to freedom of movement, the right to work, family life, as well as the rights to education and healthcare.”

Therefore, Petkovic noted, it is of vital importance for UNMIK to treat this issue as a priority, since it is crucial to put a stop to such intentions of Pristina and guarantee essential existential rights for Serbs in Kosovo.

Petkovic also said that the Serbian people in Kosovo have significant trust in the work of UNMIK, but also expect greater visibility and presence of this mission on the ground, concluding that mutual communication is of invaluable importance for improving the position of the Serbian people, the statement added.