James Kariuki, the UK’s UN Ambassador addressed the Security Council on Monday, emphasising that the UK is a long-standing supporter of Kosovo as an independent and sovereign state. Focusing on key issues such as rule of law, transitional justice, and tackling organised crime and corruption, he said that the Declaration on Missing Persons, endorsed by Kosovo and Serbia, is a priority issue that should not be politicised.
He called for Kosovo to implement the 2016 ruling regarding the Dečani monastery’s property, demonstrating Kosovo’s commitment to an inclusive, multi-ethnic future and condemned the attacks on international personnel and Kosovo Police, calling on Serbia to cooperate fully with investigations and address cross-border organised crime and arms smuggling.
The UK has deployed approximately 600 UK soldiers to Kosovo to help fulfil KFOR’s mandate to maintain a safe environment.
“Normalisation of relations between Kosovo and Serbia is vital,” he summarised, before urging both parties to engage with the EU-facilitated Dialogue to find mutually acceptable solutions. He said that the UK also recognises the vital role of UNMIK in Kosovo’s progress since resolution 1244, but called for a review of its role and responsibilities to adapt to current conditions.
CENTRAL EASTERN EUROPE NEWS
UK Urges Normalisation of Relations Between Serbia and Kosovo at UN
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