Riho Terras, EU Rapporteur for Kosovo, Visits Pristina for Fact-Finding Mission
Riho Terras, the newly appointed Permanent Rapporteur for Kosovo in the European Parliament, has arrived in Pristina for a three-day fact-finding mission aimed at gathering information on the current situation in Kosovo. This mission focuses on assessing political, economic, and social developments, as well as evaluating Kosovo’s relations with the European Union.
As part of his mission, Terras will hold a press conference at 11:00 AM in front of the European Union Office in Pristina, where he will share details about his activities and efforts to collect relevant facts.
Riho Terras Appointed as EU Rapporteur for Kosovo
Terras was appointed as the EU Rapporteur for Kosovo in the European Parliament in November of this year, following an agreement within the European People’s Party (EPP) group in the Foreign Affairs Committee. Terras is a former military officer from Estonia, who has also served as a Member of the European Parliament in a previous legislative session.
This appointment is a significant step in the process of evaluating developments in the Western Balkans and the EU’s support for Kosovo. It is expected that Terras will play a key role in monitoring Kosovo’s progress towards European integration, focusing on critical issues such as the rule of law, public administration reforms, and relations with neighboring countries.
Tradition of Rapporteurs for the Western Balkans in the European Parliament
For the past 20 years, the rapporteur for Kosovo has traditionally come from the Green Group in the European Parliament. However, after the recent European Parliament elections, the Green Group experienced a decline in support, which resulted in the appointment of Riho Terras from the EPP group for this position.
EPP and Political Developments in the Western Balkans
Political groups in the European Parliament have committed to dividing rapporteur positions for the Western Balkan states. EPP’s appointment of Riho Terras for Kosovo reflects the EU’s continued commitment to supporting Kosovo’s development and integration into the European family.
Conclusion of Riho Terras’ Mission and Its Importance for Kosovo
Terras’ visit to Kosovo is an opportunity to increase transparency and cooperation between Kosovo and the European Union, emphasizing the EU’s commitment to stability and development in the region. During his stay, the rapporteur will continue gathering facts and is expected to deliver an important report on Kosovo’s progress and the challenges it faces on its path toward EU integration.