James O’Brien, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia, stated that despite changes in administration, the United States will continue to focus on supporting Kosovo’s success in its aspirations.
O’Brien made this statement during an interview with Serbian television, where he discussed the U.S.-Serbia strategic dialogue. He regarded this dialogue as an opportunity for both governments to collaborate on programs that will have a long-term impact.
“It is a sign of the maturity of our relations. President Vučić highlighted his important topics; there are six or seven items on that list, and this will create a way in which we can collaborate in the long term,” O’Brien said.
He acknowledged that when it comes to Kosovo, there is no agreement between the U.S. and Serbia, but he emphasized that the strategic dialogue presents a good opportunity for a comprehensive understanding of each party’s positions.
“This is the most sensitive issue because it is a matter on which our governments do not agree. Our position is that there is now an opportunity to propose a vision of how Serbs can live within Kosovo, as a community and as full citizens of Kosovo. This dialogue is now an opportunity to ensure that there is a full understanding of all parties’ positions. Decisions, of course, will be up to the people of Serbia, who will need to decide whether they are ready to take the steps Europe expects – recognizing borders. I believe that with the help of dialogue, we can avoid misunderstandings,” O’Brien added.
“You will see that even with changes in the U.S. administration, we will pay attention to Kosovo’s needs so it can succeed in its aspirations, while also ensuring that Serbs are safe, that Serbs in Kosovo will live well, just as communities across Europe live in countries where they were not born, and this is a common practice. If we talk, we can solve all the problems,” he concluded.
