The formation of a new European Commission is set to accelerate the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, according to Thomas Hacker, a member of Germany’s Bundestag. However, he emphasized that meaningful progress will only be possible after Kosovo’s upcoming elections.
Hacker explained that the European Commission’s current transitional phase will soon be over, with a new commissioner responsible for enlargement—an expert from Slovenia—who could help reinvigorate the dialogue. Miroslav Lajčák, the current chief negotiator, will be replaced, providing an opportunity for a fresh approach to the talks.
“Kosovo-Serbia Dialogue Restart After Elections”
Hacker stated that real movement in the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue will happen once the new government in Kosovo is established. “There will be elections in Kosovo, and until then, not much can be done. But after the elections, the process should be reinforced, and it must be clear that both parties must implement the agreements they have made,” he added.
International Patience Wearing Thin Over Kosovo-Serbia Dialogue
The German MP also highlighted the diminishing patience of the international community regarding the lack of progress in implementing agreements between Kosovo and Serbia. “After Kosovo’s elections and the formation of a new government, patience will run out for both sides. Serbia cannot continue to sign agreements and then later claim they won’t honor them, or that they are unconstitutional,” Hacker warned.
