Szunyog: De-escalation, elections in the north, and the establishment of the CSM - for lifting sanctions against Kosovo

The Head of the European Union Office in Kosovo, Tomas Szunyog, stated today that de-escalation of the situation, elections in the north, and the establishment of the CSM were necessary steps for lifting sanctions against Kosovo, Reporteri reports.

During a press conference with Kosovo's Deputy Prime Minister Besnik Bislimi, he reminded that punitive measures had been imposed in response to the events in the north at the end of May.

"The measures were implemented based on the declaration of 27 member countries from June 3. It was a reaction to the developments at the end of May, including the attack on KFOR soldiers", Szunyog said.

He emphasized that the member countries' statement had been specific about what was expected from Kosovo.

"It focuses on de-escalation, organizing local elections in the north, and engaging in dialogue, including the establishment of the Community. These are the three areas in which we expect steps to be taken", Szunyog added.

He also said that these steps should be taken as soon as possible.

"In order to lift the measures and allow Kosovo to enjoy the potential of the new enlargement plan", Szunyog concluded.