EU Calls on Vučić to Avoid Statements That Hinder Dialogue on Kosovo

The European Union called on the parties to refrain from statements that do not serve the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, stressing that only dialogue can bring progress on the European path.

Commenting on Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić’s latest statements on Kosovo, the European Commission spokesperson said that progress toward normalizing relations between the two countries can be achieved only through talks. According to him, actions and statements that do not contribute to this goal should be avoided.

The EU spokesperson also emphasized that progress in the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina is a prerequisite for both parties to move closer to the European Union.

The reaction came after Vučić spoke on July 25 during a ceremony in Belgrade for the commissioning of the newest officers of the Serbian Armed Forces. He listed strengthening the military, maintaining military neutrality, and protecting Serbia’s territorial integrity as the country’s main priorities.

Addressing the new officers, the Serbian president said their oath obliges them to uphold Serbia’s Constitution and defend the country’s territorial integrity. Vučić added that both the officers and the state leadership would face various forms of pressure, but preserving territorial integrity remains of paramount importance.

Vučić reiterated Belgrade’s official position that Kosovo is part of Serbia, basing this claim on the Serbian Constitution and, in his words, on “God’s justice.”

Serbia continues not to recognize the independence declared by Kosovo in 2008.

Kosovo and Serbia have been engaged in dialogue to normalize relations since 2011, a process mediated by the European Union.

Several agreements have been reached during these talks, although only a small number of them have been implemented in practice.

Progress in normalizing relations remains a condition for both Kosovo and Serbia to advance in the European integration process.