PRISTINA – U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Matthew Palmer assessed today that the status quo in the Balkans is unsustainable and urged the authorities of Pristina to “intensify their efforts” to reach a comprehensive agreement and normalise relations with Belgrade.
Palmer, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of NATO’s entry into the territory of Kosovo, told those who believe that at one point, better conditions will be created to negotiate the agreement “there is no better moment than the present one”.
He assessed that normalisation of relations is crucial for the “European future of both countries” and for stability, prosperity and the future of the region.
“The United States supports Kosovo, but it’s time for Kosovo to intensify its efforts to secure lasting peace by reaching a comprehensive agreement on the normalisation of relations with Serbia, which will be concentrated on mutual recognition,” Palmer said.
He added that this is the only way to end the dispute, which, as he said, holds back the two sides to fulfil their potential.
In this context, he recalled the “historic reconciliation” between Greece and North Macedonia, which he said showed that with courageous leaders, facing the future, it is possible to leave aside the disputes of the past.