Germany has called on Kosovo and Serbia to fully implement all agreements reached so far without delays and to refrain from actions or statements that could increase tensions.
In a statement released after a meeting two days ago between the EU Envoy Peter Sorensen and Germany’s Minister of State Gunther Krichbaum, Berlin reiterated its strong support for the EU-mediated dialogue process.
“I encourage both countries to fully re-engage in the dialogue process. This includes ensuring free and safe movement for negotiators and their teams, as well as restraint in public statements, keeping in mind their respective mandates. Germany stands ready to support both sides in advancing towards a sustainable, inclusive, and peaceful normalization process,” Krichbaum stated.
The German government also confirmed it is closely monitoring recent developments, including the arrest of former Kosovo police officer Arbnor Spahiu by Serbian authorities and the arrest of Serbian Deputy Director Igor Popović in Kosovo.
“In this spirit, we are closely following the arrest of Serbian Deputy Director Igor Popović in Kosovo. Any measure of deprivation of liberty must be justified and proportionate. We are also monitoring the arrest of Kosovo citizen Arbnor Spahiu by Serbian authorities and expect Serbia to ensure proper and swift legal proceedings, respect fundamental rights, and guarantee a fair trial — in line with the Justice Agreement from the Dialogue, which specifies that criminal proceedings for acts committed in Kosovo should, in principle, take place in Kosovo,” the statement reads.
Krichbaum reiterated Berlin’s position that the Western Balkans’ future lies within the European Union, and that normalizing relations between Kosovo and Serbia remains a fundamental requirement.
“Dialogue and good neighbourly relations are pillars of a strong EU,” the statement concludes.
