The European Union has criticized remarks by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić regarding a possible diversion of the Ibër River, saying such statements do not contribute to the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia.
EU foreign policy spokesperson Annita Hipper was asked at a press conference whether Vučić’s comments, and any potential action to alter the river’s course, could affect Serbia’s EU accession process.
“I will start with the main issue before us, which is the statements that have been made. The statements, including those concerning possible changes to the course of the river, and the actions, do not support the objective of achieving a normal relationship between Kosovo and Serbia. This can only be achieved through dialogue,” Hipper said.
She added that progress in the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina remains a condition for both sides to advance on their respective European paths.
“We also recall that progress in the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina is a prerequisite for either side to advance on its European path,” Hipper said.
Vučić said on Sunday that Serbia was considering changing the course of the Ibër River, citing what he described as the treatment of the Serbian community by Kosovo authorities.
He said he had consulted “experts”, including engineers, and claimed that there were “various reasons” for considering a change in the river’s course.
“So we will see what the Albanians will do and how they will behave,” Vučić told reporters during a visit to construction works on a bridge in Belgrade.
The EU’s response adds another layer to the growing regional dispute over Vučić’s proposal, which has already drawn criticism from Kosovo and Albania and raised questions about the management of a transboundary river.
