Joint Statement – The Embassies of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, the United States and the European Union: We condemn Kosovo’s decision to impose access to municipal buildings in northern Kosovo

(ASI) “We reiterate our statement of May 26 condemning Kosovo’s decision to enforce access to municipal buildings in northern Kosovo, despite our repeated calls for restraint.

In this context, Quint and the EU expect that the Kosovo government authorities do not take new measures to force access to municipal buildings in Leposavic, Zubin Potok and Zvecan. Elected mayors must also show restraint and take immediate action to demonstrate their commitment and responsibility to represent and serve all members of their communities.

At the same time, we warn all parties against threats or other actions that could affect a safe and secure environment, including freedom of movement, that could stoke tensions or enhance conflict. We are particularly concerned about the safety and well-being of civilians, police officers, EULEX and KFOR members. The new unilateral measures will have a negative impact on relations with the five countries and the European Union.

Both Quint and the EU maintain that EU-facilitated dialogue is the path to normalization of relations and EU membership. We remind the parties to work jointly on the next steps to implement the agreement reached between Kosovo and Serbia in February and March of this year, including on ASMM, and to participate constructively and sincerely in the upcoming dialogue meetings. In a joint note from the embassies of France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, the United States and the European Union.