Buitenlandvertegenwoordiger Ashton verheugd over opening dialoog tussen Servië en Kosovo (en)

Brussels, 8 March 2011 A 094/11

Statement by the spokesperson of Catherine Ashton i, EU High Representative on the start of the Belgrade - Pristina dialogue

The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"The High Representative looks forward to the start of the Belgrade - Pristina dialogue. The dialogue will be facilitated by the EU and the first meeting of the parties will take place in Brussels on 8-9 March.

High Representative Ashton believes now is the right time to begin and she is confident that both Belgrade and Pristina can find practical ways to make sure that ordinary life can go on more smoothly. Solving problems by dialogue is the European way and the objectives of the talks is to promote co-operation and bring both Pristina and Belgrade closer to the EU.

The High Representative emphasises that the dialogue is a real opportunity for both Belgrade and Pristina. Discussions are expected to revolve around three main themes - regional cooperation, freedom of movement and rule of law - all essential for the region's European perspective".