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Meeting in Brussels, the members of the Stabilisation and Association Council (SA Council) reviewed Kosovos progress on its European path following the publication of the European Commissions 2021 Report on Kosovo.

The parties discussed recent developments relating to the fulfilment of the political criteria, as well as the state of play concerning the economic criteria, financial cooperation and implementation of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement.

The parties welcomed Kosovos renewed commitment to its European path. They agreed on the need to continue with reforms, including through the implementation of the second phase of the European Reform Agenda, and building on Kosovos achievements to date. This requires increased focus by all political actors, strengthening of the administrative capacities and an effective coordination structure within the Kosovo institutions.

The parties reiterated the importance of visa liberalisation for Kosovo citizens. The decision on the proposal remains under consideration in the Council. The parties also took note of the positive developments in Kosovos economic growth, in the light of recent projections by Kosovo institutions of 9.9 % for 2021.

The parties discussed reform priorities in the areas of the fundamentals, and noted the governments commitment to enhance rule of law, fight against corruption and organised crime, respect for fundamental rights; public administration reform; economic development; as well as education and employment. Regarding the Specialist Chambers, the parties appreciated the cooperation shown by Kosovo authorities. The parties agreed on the need for continued commitment by Kosovo, in full compliance with its own legal framework and its international obligations, with genuine efforts to guarantee the rule of law, fundamental freedoms, justice and work on reconciliation.

The meeting underlined the importance of constructive engagement in the EU-facilitated Dialogue to negotiate and achieve a comprehensive legally binding normalisation agreement with Serbia. This is crucial in order for Kosovo and Serbia to advance on their respective European paths. All past agreements need to be respected and fully implemented.

The parties agreed on the importance of Kosovos active and constructive participation in regional cooperation mechanisms, notably the Common Regional Market and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans as endorsed at the 2020 Sofia Summit, and of Kosovo taking full advantage of the Economic and Investment Plan, which will bolster the regions long-term development, sustainable recovery, health resilience and green and digital transition, and help to advance on European path.

Kosovo informed about its intention to apply for membership.

The meeting was chaired by the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Mr Albin Kurti. The Kosovo delegation included Deputy Prime Minister Besnik Bislimi and Minister Donika Gervalla, Minister Hekuran Murati, Minister Xhelal Svecla, Minister Liburn Aliu, and Deputy Minister Nita Shala. The EU delegation was led by High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Mr Josep Borrell, and included Commissioner for Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, Mr Olivr Vrhelyi, who represented the European Commission.

* This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence.

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Joint press statement following the 4th meeting of the Stabilisation and Association Council between the European Union and Kosovo*, Brussels, 7...