Verklaring Hoge Vertegenwoordiger Ashton over Europese betrokkenheid bij Kosovo(en)

"I was very pleased to meet with President of Kosovo, Atifete Jahjaga, in Brussels today. We had a very broad discussion covering the situation in Kosovo, EU-Kosovo relations and the EU-facilitated dialogue.

During the discussion, I recalled the European perspective of Kosovo and its importance as an overall framework for all activities in Kosovo. The European institutions are determined to work towards stronger relations. There are challenges that need to be addressed on this path, and we can address them through close collaboration. I encouraged President Jahjaga to continue with the reforms which are necessary to bring Kosovo closer to the European Union.

We also agreed on the importance of reaching out to all communities in Kosovo and on the involvement of civil society. Stronger relations between the EU and Kosovo would be beneficial in both respects.

I also expressed my strong support for the important work of EULEX and discussed with the President the future evolution of the mission as the institutions of Kosovo develop their capacity.

Finally, I welcomed the agreement reached in the framework of the EU facilitated dialogue on 2 September on the customs stamp and the cadastre. Agreements reached last Friday are truly European solutions to some very difficult issues. In particular, the agreement on customs stamps is crucial, since it will result in the lifting of the mutual trade embargoes. This is a significant step in improving relations in the region and ensuring freedom of movement of goods and I look forward to its implementation.

Now the discussions need to continue and further progress needs to be made on the remaining issues, so that we can reach pragmatic solutions that will improve the daily lives of the citizens."