Normalization does not include Kosovo recognition

The normalization of relations with Pristina, which is a precondition for getting a date for the EU accession talks, does not include recognition of Kosovo's independence, said Suzana Grubjesic, deputy prime minister for EU integration

(KosovoCompromiseStuff) Thursday, September 13, 2012

"Normalization is not an event, but rather a process in which both parties will have to make concessions and compromises. However, normalization certainly does not imply recognition of the so-called reality, as some like to call it, referring to Serbia's recognition of Kosovo's independence," Grubjesic said in an interview for Belgrade daily .

She noted that the conditions, which Serbia is due to meet, are familiar since the December summit of the EU leaders and conclusions of the European Council (EC).

Grubjesic said that conclusion No. 52, which refers to Serbia, points to the implementation of all agreements reached in the technical dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade, and continuation of the dialogue on remaining issues of telecommunications and energy, cooperation with EULEX, and actions in line with the principles of inclusive regional cooperation.
"Serbia also proposed a political dialogue on the highest level so that a fair, compromise and sustainable solution could be reached in the interest of all citizens and lasting peace and stability in this part of Europe," she added.
The EC conclusions, as she puts it, do not mention opening of an office in Pristina, or closure of the Serb court in Kosovska Mitrovica.

"I cannot say that such proposals do not exist, but as long as they do not appear in official documents of top EU bodies, they can be seen only as someone's intentions to complicate or slow down Serbia's EU pathway," Grubjesic said.