KFOR Announces Withdrawal from Ibar Bridge, EU Responds: We Have Been Informed; Kosovo Police Must Ensure Security for All Communities

The European Union has confirmed that NATO informed it of the gradual transition of KFOR’s permanent presence away from the Ibar Bridge in Mitrovica.

In response to the matter, the EU called on the Kosovo Police to ensure security for all communities.

“It is up to NATO to decide on the deployment of the NATO mission in Kosovo. We can confirm that the EU has been informed by NATO. The EU’s position on the bridge has always been clear and based on the need to ensure that it serves all the communities and municipalities it connects and contributes to cooperation and good relations among them,” an EU spokesperson said in a response to KOHA.

The EU official said that following the transfer of power in the northern municipalities, cooperation between the municipalities concerned and central-level institutions needs to improve.

“It is important for the Kosovo Police to provide security and protection for all communities, in accordance with democratic principles, human rights and the rule of law, so that everyone feels safe,” the response said.

“All decisions concerning the bridge must take into account the interests and concerns of all communities.”