Stoltenberg: For the deployment of the KSF in the north, permission is required, and for the actions of the Kosovo Police, consultation with KFOR

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg pointed out today, after a conversation with Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani, that the existing agreement prohibited the arrival of the KSF in the north without the consent of KFOR and requested consultations regarding the actions of the Kosovo Police that could threaten security.

Recalling the agreement that prohibits the arrival of the KSF in the north of Kosovo without the consent of KFOR, he requested consultations regarding the actions of the Kosovo Police that could affect security.

"In accordance with the obligation of Pristina from 2013, any deployment of the KSF in the north of Kosovo requires the consent of KFOR and we expect timely and significant consultations for any actions of the KSF, or the Kosovo Police that could affect the security environment," he explained.

He underlined that this was not a new condition that any deployment of Special Forces requires the consent of KFOR and that there was a need for coordination and close consultation between the Kosovo authorities and KFOR commanders.

He said that the Alliance strongly supported the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina and added that he expected the Pristina side to "show that it is a responsible party that acts constructively for the benefit of Euro-Atlantic security" at the meeting in Brussels.

He pointed out that dialogue was the only way to resolve open issues between Serbia and Kosovo.

Stoltenberg said that he welcomed the meeting between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Albin Kurti in Brussels next week, stressing that this meeting was "an opportunity for Kosovo to show that it is a responsible party that acts constructively for the benefit of Euro-Atlantic security".

Speaking about the situation in the north, he pointed out that KFOR continued to monitor the situation.

"The stability of the region and the security of the KFOR troops depend on whether all parties respect the existing obligations," he said.

Stoltenberg encouraged Kosovo and Serbia to adhere to their obligations.

"We welcome Pristina's recent steps to reduce tensions, including troop reductions and plans for elections. It is essential to avoid any further escalation. We encourage both sides to act in accordance with their commitments," Stoltenberg said.