EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, Miroslav Lajčák is optimistic about the last meeting between the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti and the President of Serbia, Alexandar Vučić.
During an interview in “Balkans Debrief” hosted by Ilva Tare, he said that the discussion was open, emotional at times, but very respectful.
“They disagree on many things, but the discussion was a really good one,” stressed Mr. Lajčák.
The most important outcome of the meeting, according to Lajčák is that both parties think that the agreement text does not need more discussions and it may be considered closed. The two leaders have to focus on the implementation annex, which is a separate paper, but an inseparable part of the agreement.
“I would say that the last mile is always the most important and most sensitive. And this is what is ahead of us,” Lajčák added.
Even though Kosovar Prime Minister, Albin Kurti was ready to sign the document to make it formal, Miroslav Lajčák said: The European Union reaction was that it would be premature, because the fact is that this agreement [which is not a small thing, but without the agreement on implementing], is still more a political declaration rather than a legally binding agreement.
It’s Kurti’s and Vučić’s job to determine the structure and the powers that the Association of the Serb Municipalities will have, says Lajčák. The Special Representative thinks that we should not be afraid of something that has not yet been put on the agenda.
“Kosovo and Serbia are equal parties. Neither party can impose its will on the other party against the will of that party,” he said.
Even though the parties are working to find a better solution and to make the agreement acceptable, both opposition in Kosovo and Serbia are fighting hard against it. That doesn’t sit well with Mr. Lajčák.
“It’s super sensitive. I understand that this goes to the very bottom of the identity issues. I am also fully aware of the public debate. I see that the reaction from the opposition both in Kosovo and in Serbia, is not helpful for the two leaders to make these important decisions, but they know how important this proposal is for their relations, for the regional atmosphere, and also for the EU path,” Lajčák concluded.
