Serbia and Kosovo Inch Closer to Reconciliation: EU and US Push for Peace

Sarhan Basem

Tentative Approval of EU-Brokered Plan Offers Glimpse of Hope Amidst Decades-Long Enmity

Belgium (Brussels Morning Newspaper) In a long-awaited development, Serbia and Kosovo have displayed hesitant signs of progress toward reconciliation after more than a decade of animosity. The European Union (EU) and the United States, persistent in their efforts to broker peace, have witnessed a glimmer of hope as Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Kosovo’s Prime Minister Albin Kurti tentatively endorsed an EU-brokered plan aimed at burying the hatchet once and for all.

Serbian,Flag,Infront,Of,Prince,Lazar,Hrebljanovic,Of,Serbia,Statue
Serbian flag in front of Prince Lazar Hrebljanovic of Serbia statue monument in the Serbian northern part of the divided city of Kosovska Mitrovica. North Kosovska Mitrovica, Kosovo, Serbia 04.03.2022

Speaking on the matter, Fabio Massimo Castaldo, a Member of the European Parliament representing Italy’s 5 Star Movement, emphasized the critical importance of reconciliation between Serbia and Kosovo. He stated, “Reconciliation between Serbia and Kosovo is far from being just a regional issue; it is a strategic imperative for the whole of Europe.”

Fabio Massimo Castaldo, MEP.

The recent breakthrough comes after numerous setbacks in the peace process, highlighting the challenges both sides face in reaching a lasting agreement. Castaldo urged the parties involved to adhere to the 11-point plan presented in February, emphasizing the need for a clear roadmap for implementation and concrete incentives to ensure commitment.

“Only by setting a clear roadmap for the implementation and setting concrete incentives, we can make sure that both parties stick to the promises they made,” Castaldo emphasized. “Then, it will come to the parties to leave apart long-lasting issues and focus on a common future.”

The European parliamentarian further called upon the leadership in Belgrade and Pristina to de-escalate tensions in Northern Kosovo, emphasizing the EU’s commitment to support both sides in their pursuit of peace. He stressed that violence is not the solution and urged all parties involved to adopt a proactive and constructive approach towards a shared goal: “to meet your peoples’ aspiration for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous future within our common European family.”

The road to reconciliation remains challenging, but the recent cautious approval of the EU-brokered plan offers a glimmer of hope for the region. The EU and the United States remain committed to fostering peace in the Western Balkans and believe that the future lies in unity and cooperation, rather than continued enmity.

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Sarhan Basem is Brussels Morning's Senior Correspondent to the European Parliament. With a Bachelor's degree in English Literature, Sarhan brings a unique blend of linguistic finesse and analytical prowess to his reporting. Specializing in foreign affairs, human rights, civil liberties, and security issues, he delves deep into the intricacies of global politics to provide insightful commentary and in-depth coverage. Beyond the world of journalism, Sarhan is an avid traveler, exploring new cultures and cuisines, and enjoys unwinding with a good book or indulging in outdoor adventures whenever possible.
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