In the European Parliament in Brussels, MEPs exchange views with Pieter FEITH, EU Special Representative in Kosovo.

Brussels

exchange of views

EU - Kosovo (T)

Enlargement to Kosovo (T)

FEITH, Pieter (NL)

Situation in Kosovo: extracts from the exchange of views with Pieter FEITH, EU Special Representative in Kosovo

SOUNDBITE (English), Pieter FEITH, EU Special Representative in Kosovo, The approach should rest on two pillars. One, substantial outreach from the Kosovo authorities, providing real improvement by extending efficient local government. Two, acceptance and voluntary participation of all communities living in that part of Kosovo. I am convinced that the international community has a responsibility in bringing all sides together.

SOUNDBITE (English), Pieter FEITH, EU Special Representative in Kosovo, In this context, the EU is an increasingly important actor. The approach of the EU presence is that Kosovo is a single legal space and the EU will have to pursue its objectives throughout Kosovo. Based on this principle, the EU will continue to extend the Rule of Law, improve the social and economic conditions and strengthen inter-community relationships.

SOUNDBITE (English), Pieter FEITH, EU Special Representative in Kosovo, Developing sound institutional interplay is a work in progress. The judicial bodies should continue to consolidate their functions in ensuring the authorities' compliance with Kosovo legislation. The assembly of Kosovo has yet to fully assert itself in performing its parliamentary oversight functions. I welcome the assistance of the European Parliament.

SOUNDBITE (English), Pieter FEITH, EU Special Representative in Kosovo, The European Commission and EULEX inline with the European Agenda of Kosovo have assisted the Kosovo authorities in addressing legal and institutional weaknesses. In particular, Kosovo s procurement regulation is being aligned to international standards. I think we can say that corruption, also on the higher level, is being pushed back by the recent steps taken by EULEX. The message that no one is above the law has found broad resonance among the Kosovo public and the image of the EU has improved significantly.

SOUNDBITE (English), Pieter FEITH, EU Special Representative in Kosovo, The relationships and the EU grow stronger. The EU is steadily solidifying its reform cooperation with Kosovo in an ever stronger partnership. However, when we see that Kosovo's neighbours are making progress towards the EU, for instance the inclusion of Albania and Bosnia-Herzegovina in visa liberalisation and the stabilisation and association agreement for Serbia, we may want to ask ourselves if we could do more to assist Kosovo in realising its European perspective.

SOUNDBITE (English), Pieter FEITH, EU Special Representative in Kosovo, At my suggestion the EU has recently enhanced its role in the important field of protecting the religious and cultural heritage of the Serb Orthodox Church in Kosovo by appointing the head of the Greek liaison office in Kosovo as the facilitator. My office supports him in the fulfillment of this mandate. He initiated a number of activities to provide concrete solutions to problems on the ground by facilitating dialogue between the Serb Orthodox Church and local authorities.

SOUNDBITE (English), Pieter FEITH, EU Special Representative in Kosovo, The International Court of Justice is expected to deliver its advisory opinion very soon. The advisory opinion of the Court is not for me to comment upon but I do believe that the publication entails an opportunity for increasing context between Kosovo and Serbia. I believe that Belgrade and Pristina should seize this opportunity to deal with the practical matters they have common interest in resolving.