For the first time in five years, negotiations between Kosovo and Serbia will not be mediated by Miroslav Lajčak. The European Union has decided that its new envoy for dialogue will be Peter Sorensen. Officially, he will start his work tomorrow, February 1, and will focus solely on the dialogue between the two neighboring countries, rather than broader regional Balkan issues, as was the case with his predecessor.
Since Sorensen’s name was first mentioned in the media a few weeks ago, the atmosphere surrounding his appointment has been positive. One of the most common arguments in his favor is that the 57-year-old diplomat is familiar with the region.
Indeed, this is true. Having been a diplomat for many years, he has worked in Kosovo as part of the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) and held other roles in Serbia, North Macedonia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, reports REL.
As political analysts note, he does not need to be briefed on the people or historical facts of the region, as he has already had the opportunity to gain a close-up view of it.
Another positive aspect highlighted by officials in Pristina is that Sorensen is from Denmark, a country that recognizes Kosovo’s statehood, which is expected to ensure an equal approach to the dialogue.
The background of a mediator has become an important element since Lajčak took the position, and Josep Borrell became the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs. Both Slovakia and Spain, the countries of the two men, have not recognized Kosovo’s statehood. This has often cast a shadow over their roles, with accusations of bias coming from the citizens of Kosovo and even the country’s president, Vjosa Osmani. Both men have continuously denied these accusations.
This problem is expected to be absent now. However, the timing of Sorensen’s appointment is considered problematic. Given the upcoming elections in Kosovo and political uncertainties in Serbia—following the resignation of its prime minister—political analysts expect little progress, especially in the first six months of the Danish diplomat’s mandate.
Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon said recently that Sorensen’s appointment sends a message that the dialogue remains a high priority on the European Union’s agenda.
