The American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo has reacted after the blocking of hundreds of citizens from Kosovo by the Serbian authorities.
In response, the American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo has said that this blockade at the border crossings between Serbia and Croatia and Serbia and Hungary represents a clear violation of the provisions of the agreements for the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia.
The agreements for the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, mediated by the European Union, aim to promote stability between the two states and the entire region. At the center of these agreements is the principle of facilitating the free movement of people, which constitutes an essential value in the European integration process. By preventing the movement of Kosovo citizens to their desired destinations in Western Europe, the Serbian authorities are not only undermining these agreements but also hindering progress towards regional stability and European integration.”
“The American Chamber strongly believes that the free movement of people is essential to fostering economic growth, promoting cultural exchange and strengthening ties between countries, therefore such restrictions not only hinder the lives of individuals, but also have a negative impact on trade, investments and business activities in the region”, says the response.
Furthermore, the American Chamber has called on the international community to strongly demand from the Serbian authorities the immediate lifting of the blockade and the permission of the citizens of Kosovo, enabling them to move to their desired destinations.
“Also, we call on the Serbian authorities to refrain from similar actions in the future, respecting their commitments to the agreements for the normalization of relations.”
“In conclusion, the American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo remains committed to advocating for the principles of free movement, regional cooperation and economic prosperity in Kosovo and in the entire Western Balkan region. We are ready to work with all interested parties to address any challenges and obstacles to achieving these goals,” the statement said.
Hundreds of citizens of Kosovo have remained stranded on the Serbia-Croatia, Croatia-Serbia and Hungary-Serbia borders, as a result of the Serbian authorities.