Lajcak and Escobar on restarting Belgrade-Pristina dialogue: We invite both sides to negotiating table

The Atlantic Council said in a statement that recent progress in normalization of relations between Serbia and Kosovo through EU-mediated dialogue is jeopardized by escalation of tensions in the north of Kosovo

Deputy Assistant Secretary of State and US envoy for the Western Balkans Gabriel Escobar, and the EU's special representative for dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina Miroslav Lajcak, held a public discussion at the Atlantic Council on recent developments in the region and the dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia, where they were to present possible solutions for reducing tensions in the north.

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Lajcak said that he is very concerned.

"We need to discuss the next steps. The situation is extremely difficult," he noted.

Escobar also said that he is very worried because what is happening can cause a regional problem. He stressed that they encourage the parties to return to the negotiating table.

Lajcak added that there is no deadline for new elections (in the north) and that they need to be held as soon as possible, but also that for now, there is no political will for that to happen.

"The leaders of both sides will come to Brussels, the meeting will take place. It is important that people resume normal life as soon as possible," he said.

Escobar emphasized that they encourage both sides to accept the de-escalation plan and that there is no alternative to that.

Lajcak added that he believes that violence is not Kurti's choice, that none of the leaders said no to dialogue, and that he hopes that the meeting would take place soon.

Escobar stressed that he hopes the leaders will understand that dialogue is the only way for the entire region to progress.

"We offer a partnership, if we don't have basic coordination it won't happen," he said.

The Atlantic Council said in a statement that recent progress in normalization of relations between Serbia and Kosovo through EU-mediated dialogue is jeopardized by escalation of tensions in the north of Kosovo.

The Atlantic Council recalled a series of events starting in April, when elections (boycotted by Serbs) were held in the (Serb majority) north, to the arrest of Kosovo policemen in (central) Serbia.

"The event (featuring Lajcak and Escobar) will offer insight into how the US and the EU aim to help reduce tensions and find potential solutions for Serbia and Kosovo to establish more stable relations," the Atlantic Council said announcing the discussion.

(Telegraf.rs)