Statement of the Troika meeting with Belgrade and Pristina in New York
Statement issued by the Troika following the first round of direct talks in New York on September 28.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
The U.S./EU/Russia negotiating Troika met in New York City on September 28 with leaders of Kosovo and Serbia to discuss Kosovo's future status. The Belgrade delegation was led by President Boris Tadic and Prime Minister Vojislav Kostunica. The Pristina delegation was led by President Fatmir Sejdiu and Prime Minister Agim Ceku.
The Troika initially facilitated two hours of direct dialogue between the parties. This was the third face-to-face meeting of leaders since the Kosovo future status process began in 2005 and the first such meeting held under Troika auspices. After the direct dialogue, the Troika met separately with each side to explore further the parties' positions.
The atmosphere of these meetings was cooperative. Belgrade presented its vision of substantial autonomy for Kosovo within Serbia's borders. Pristina presented its vision of friendship and cooperation between two independent states and full implementation of the minority rights protections recommended by UN Special Envoy Martti Ahtisaari. The Troika encouraged the parties to present their proposals in a way that would appeal to the other side.
The parties agreed on the "New York declaration" reaffirming their willingness to engage seriously and refrain from making statements that could undermine the security situation in Kosovo. The text of this declaration is attached.
The Troika will next meet with the parties in Brussels on October 14. The Contact Group will report back to the UN Secretary General about the Troika's efforts by 10 December. The Troika reaffirmed its commitment to use the remaining time to explore every avenue of possible compromise between the parties in order to reach negotiated agreement.
