Swedish Ambassador Jonas Westerlund expressed his disappointment that the bridge over the Ibër River in Mitrovica remains closed.
Ambassador Westerlund stated that the bridge should be opened in coordination with local residents.
“As you know, I was in Kosovo in 1999 and I remember very well the French troops on the Ibër Bridge. Those were very tense moments. I am unhappy to see that even after 24 years, the bridge is still not fully open. This clearly shows that the wounds of the war have not yet healed. I believe the bridge should be opened, but in coordination with local residents on both sides,” said Ambassador Westerlund.
Westerlund assessed that the situation in the north remains extremely complex and suggested that the government coordinate with international allies for certain actions.
“Many actions have been taken in the northern part of Kosovo over the past two years. As you know, the situation continues to be complex. I agree with those who say that Kosovo has been an independent state since 2008 and has the right to make decisions. However, if you want to have KFOR here, the EU, and if you aim for integration into Euro-Atlantic structures, then there must be coordination with allied states,” he stated.
Furthermore, the Swedish ambassador mentioned that it is time to consider punitive measures against Kosovo, while expecting a new momentum in the dialogue process.
In conclusion, Westerlund encouraged both Kosovo and Serbia to make greater efforts toward fully normalizing their relations.
