Sweden’s Ambassador to Kosovo, Jonas Westerlund, has called for Kosovo and Serbia to fully implement the 2023 Brussels Basic Agreement and Ohrid Annex. He emphasized the need for Kosovo’s government to submit the draft statute of the Association of Serb-Majority Municipalities, prepared by the EU, to the Constitutional Court.
Westerlund reiterated that these agreements are legally binding and must be implemented swiftly, adding that the EU’s new commissioners are evaluating the current situation for potential solutions. He mentioned successful European models that could inspire the creation of the Association, while also clarifying that Kosovo’s Serb population is significantly smaller compared to the case of Republika Srpska.
On the fragile security situation in northern Kosovo, Westerlund condemned the 2023 Banjska attack and highlighted the importance of reintegrating Serbs into northern institutions. He also urged local participation in elections, stressing the need for legitimate representation and local police forces. Additionally, he pushed for reopening the Ibar Bridge through dialogue and coordination with local communities, suggesting initiatives like restoring the historic mosque in North Mitrovica as symbols of unity.
Westerlund concluded by expressing support for Kosovo’s EU accession path and emphasized the economic benefits of the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.
