Knut Fleckenstein, member of the European Parliament, said in an interview to Deutsche Welle that Kosovo should revoke its decision on a 100-percent tax on Serbian goods, but that Serbia must not obstruct Kosovo’s efforts even though it doesn’t recognize it as a state.
The Kosovo Government introduced a 100-percent tax on Serbian and Bosnian goods, in reaction to Serbia’s blocking policy. What is your assessment?
Regional cooperation in the economy is crucial. New customs tariffs mean a step backwards instead of moving forward. We fear further aggravation with new customs tariffs, therefore, I call, just like the EU High Representative, for self-restraint and for Kosovo to remove taxes that violate the CEFTA agreement. Parties involved in dialogue must sends signals of peace and cooperation.
Some say this step was a result of disappointment and outrage over Serbia’s blocking policy, and the EU is familiar with the situation …
Because of disappointment over the refusal for membership to INTERPOL, but also because of the prolonged visa liberalization process, and this is regrettable, this should not result in quick and ill-advised reactions …
What is the EU doing to stabilize the situation?
The international community wants Kosovo to be stable, to have patience, this would have a positive effect even in the process of getting new recognitions of Kosovo’s statehood. But we expect Serbia too not to obstruct Kosovo’s efforts toward a fully-recognized state, even though it doesn’t recognize its statehood. Good neighborly relations between the two countries – Kosovo and Serbia – is crucial for peace in the Balkans. The start of talks between Kosovo and Serbia is a historical success attributed to Federica Mogherini. We have faith in her role as mediator.
Delays in Kosovo’s approximation process with the EU has caused lack of hope in the country, delays in the visa liberalization process adds to this, although Kosovo has met the requirements … why is there no visa liberalization this year …
A final decision has not been made yet, but if visa liberalization does not happen this year, the great anger and disappointment among the people would be understandable. Both the European Commission and the European Parliament gave their approval for visa liberalization. If the EU Council, or some member states, do not support this position, it would be tragical. Reasons behind the rejection are among the member states and are partly due to internal policies. Member states must be aware of their responsibility for the development of the Balkans. The progress achieved must lead to visa liberalization, so that people there do not lose hope and faith in Europe. Member states too must prove they stay true to their words.
People in Kosovo argue that dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo has brought more benefits for Serbia. Can this disappointment lead to dangerous developments between the two countries?
I am aware of this concern, even from the other side, the Serbian side. No one should lie to themselves: only if both parties make progress and reach a solution through dialogue they will have a joint future within the European Union.
