The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Thorbjorn Jagland, said in his interview to Belgrade-based daily Vecernje Novosti that Pristina’s request for a membership in that organization has not been received in Strasbourg, and even if that would be the case, a journey to eventual membership would be a long one.
When asked how realistic is that such application would be considered in the course of this year, as announced by Kosovo Foreign Minister, Hashim Thaci, during their recent meeting, Jagland answered that the issue completely depends from states which are members of the Council of Europe (CoE). “The fact is that two-third of our member-states have recognized Kosovo’s independence. But, we don’t know whether the ones that have recognized Kosovo wish Kosovo to become our member,” said Jagland.
Which preconditions are needed in order to review Kosovo’s membership?
Even if a request from Pristina is submitted, there is a procedure, including a monitoring and fulfillment of criteria. It would be a long process. There is a political aspect. I think that no one would like to hamper the process of dialogue that is ongoing between Belgrade and Pristina, facilitated by the EU.
How do you see position of Serbia in the region?
Serbia has very positive role in the regional cooperation. Dialogue with authorities in Pristina is very important. It is clear that Serbia is contributing to good relations in its surrounding.
When asked about the progress of investigation on human organ trafficking in Kosovo, Jagland said that the case is not in hands of the CoE any more. “Dick Marty’s report was very important and presents the basis for investigation which was initiated within the EU. It is not in our hands any more. We don’t have any investigative power in that aspect. Not even information about the ongoing investigation is reaching us, because its confidentiality has to be respected,” explained Jagland.
