Kosovo PM urges EU pressure on Serbia over normalization agreement

Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti has urged Brussels to pressure Belgrade to comply with the agreement on normalizing relations with Kosovo. During his visit to Zagreb, Croatia, Kurti discussed Kosovo’s desire for good relations with Serbia while criticizing Serbia’s handling of human rights and protests.

Key points

• Appeal to Brussels: Kurti called on the European Union to push Serbia to honor the agreement aimed at normalizing relations between the two countries.
• Criticism of Serbia: Kurti described Serbia as “not a democratic country” and accused it of not respecting human rights or minority rights, pointing to ongoing protests sparked by a deadly train station incident.
• Kosovo-Croatia relations: In Zagreb, Kurti emphasized that Kosovo and Croatia share common values, including peace, stability, democracy, and economic development. He praised Croatia’s independence and growth as inspirational for Kosovo.
• Economic ties with Croatia: Prime Minister Kurti also highlighted Kosovo’s strong economic relations with Croatia and discussed cooperation in various fields, including social insurance, driver’s licenses, disaster protection, and forensics.

Bigger picture

• Serbia-Kosovo relations: The normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia remains a contentious issue in the Balkans. Kosovo continues to seek recognition from Serbia, which has not yet accepted its independence.
• Croatia’s support: Croatia has expressed its support for Kosovo’s European integration, including backing Kosovo’s membership in the European Parliament.
• Tensions over infrastructure: Kurti’s comments also touched on the attack on the Iber Lepenci water canal, which is critical for Kosovo’s water and electricity supply. Croatian officials labeled the attack as a “terrorist act,” showing their concern for regional stability.

Why it matters

Kosovo’s relationship with Serbia and its integration into the European Union are pivotal to regional stability. The support of neighboring countries like Croatia and international bodies like the EU will be crucial for Kosovo as it continues to navigate complex diplomatic challenges.