Terras: Important to continue Belgrade–Pristina Dialogue, EU should lift measures against Kosovo

Riho Terras, the European Parliament rapporteur for Kosovo, emphasized this evening before MEPs that, among other things, the continuation of the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina is key to maintaining the European path, and called on the European Union to lift the measures imposed on Kosovo.

"The war in Kosovo began more than 25 years ago, but the wounds are still present. They can only be healed if Europe offers a European future to Kosovo’s citizens. For them, that is a goal worth striving for, which is also evident in Kosovo’s political landscape," said Terras.

He noted that much has been done to reform the economy, strengthen the rule of law, and build a European way of life, but shortcomings must not be overlooked.

"Kosovo must ensure judicial independence, media freedom, and transparent media ownership structures. The continuation of the Belgrade–Pristina dialogue is very important—it is crucial for staying on the European path. There are still issues that require improvement," Terras said.

According to him, in today’s global situation, "where authoritarian states are trying to assert control," there must be no "grey zones" in Europe.

He called on the EU to lift the punitive measures imposed on Kosovo.

"We must be ready to support Kosovo and lift the measures, which are unfair and were unnecessary from the beginning," Terras said, adding that the EU finances many reform-related programs and that the measures should be lifted to allow Kosovo to work with the funds offered by the Union.

Kos: Normalization with Serbia is Key to Kosovo’s European Path

European Commissioner Marta Kos stated that dialogue has no alternative and that normalization of relations with Serbia is a key requirement for Kosovo’s path toward EU membership.

"As for the EU-facilitated dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia, it must continue in a committed, strong, and constructive manner. Dialogue has no alternative. Normalization of relations with Serbia is a crucial requirement for Kosovo’s European path. Kosovo and the entire region belong in the EU, and we will stand by Kosovo on this path," Kos stressed.

She praised the recent parliamentary elections, which, she noted, were held peacefully and with the participation of all communities.

"Kosovo is now ready for institutional reform, and this must be done as soon as possible. The agreement on reform mechanisms needs to be signed and ratified. Parliament must support this, as it is a condition for receiving funds. Kosovo must accelerate legal reform," said Kos.

The Commissioner said the report is in line with previous ones and confirms Kosovo is on the European path, but also stressed that a series of reforms lie ahead.

"These reforms will allow Kosovo and its citizens to advance on the European path. Kosovo has demonstrated a clear strategic orientation regarding the war in Ukraine," she explained.

Kos reminded that Kosovo applied for EU membership in 2022, and that once the Council requests it, the European Commission will assist in every possible way.

EPP spokesperson for Serbia, Ivo Davor Stier, emphasized that it is time to lift the sanctions.

He said the EU expects Kosovo to swiftly form a new government.

He also stressed that the protection of all minorities must be a priority for that government.

At the conclusion of the debate on the report on Kosovo, Kos reiterated the call to lift sanctions.

"It seems the time has come to gradually lift the sanctions," the Commissioner emphasized.

She added that the debate demonstrated the EU’s expectations for Kosovo to continue institutional reforms, take concrete government actions in the areas outlined in the report, and seize the momentum currently present in the Western Balkans along with all the opportunities offered by the EU.

Closing the debate, Terras stressed the importance of preserving the European perspective.

"We know that the issues in the Kosovo parliament will soon be resolved, that a speaker will be elected, and a government formed. I hope that this government will do everything to restart the dialogue with Belgrade. I am confident that the punitive measures will soon come to an end," Terras said.

At the same time, he reiterated that all decisions regarding EU integration will be based solely on Kosovo’s merits and on addressing existing shortcomings.