Petritsch on possible departure of Lajcak: Any swift change is a problem, but a short-term replacement would be found

Former European Union envoy for Kosovo, Wolfgang Petritsch, believes that the potential departure of Miroslav Lajcak from his position as the EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, in case he decides to return to Slovak politics after the recent elections, would pose a problem, but also that a short-term replacement would be found.

When asked if it would be problematic for the dialogue if Lajcak were to return to the government in Bratislava after the recent elections in Slovakia, Petritsch said for Kosovo Online that any swift change was a problem.

"Any swift change is a problem. Lajcak has an established team. I believe that a short-term replacement can be found to at least maintain the minimum necessary to continue the dialogue. I don't know what will happen with Lajcak, whether he will return to Slovakia or stay in his position within the EU, but regardless of that, the EU must ensure that the dialogue can continue if both sides desire it," Petritsch said.

Petritsch believes that the upcoming elections will impact the dialogue process.

"Elections are scheduled in Serbia in December, followed by elections in Kosovo, the US, and for the European Parliament. After that, the new European Commission will be formed, along with the replacement of the EU's chief diplomat and the individuals who will lead the dialogue," he added.