S/PV.9894 Security Council

At the outset, I would like to remind everyone that the Council is a place of respect — respect among members of the Organization and respect vis-à-vis their representatives. I thank all speakers for observing the appropriate standards of tone, wording and content in their remarks. In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of the Republic of Serbia to participate in this meeting. On behalf of the Council, I welcome His Excellency Mr. Marko Đurić, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite Ms. Caroline Ziadeh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I also invite Ms. Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I also invite His Excellency Mr. Stavros Lambrinidis, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations, to participate in this meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I give the floor to Ms. Ziadeh.

I would like to congratulate France on its presidency of the Security Council for the month of April. I congratulate you, Mr. President. It is an honour for me to brief the Council on the latest developments in Kosovo since the publication of the report of the Secretary-General, which covers the period from 16 September 2024 to 15 March 2025, and to share some key observations. (spoke in English) The conduct of the elections on 9 February was notably peaceful, although not without technical complications and appeals by political parties. It was especially encouraging to note the gains in women’s representation, which resulted in women increasing their presence in the Kosovo Assembly without relying on the 30 per cent gender quota foreseen by the law on general elections. I congratulate the people of Kosovo on yet another peaceful and inclusive election. Following the certification of the results on 27 March, I look forward to the timely formation of the next Government, recognizing that that might require complex negotiations. Once the Government is in place, it is imperative that concrete steps be taken to prioritize the well-being of the people in Kosovo and the implementation of commitments made under the European Union (EU)-facilitated dialogue and to advance on the process of normalizing relations. After the appointment of Mr. Peter Sørensen as the new European Union Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue in January, I look forward to working closely with him. His early engagement offers an opportunity to support In that context, I wish to commemorate the passing of Mr. Bajram Qerkinaj — the father of a missing son, who dedicated decades of his life to advocating for the right to know, whose efforts spanned communities and ethnicities and embodied the shared humanity of all affected. His legacy continues to guide this work, and the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) remains committed to supporting the Missing Persons Resource Centre and all families still seeking answers. When I visited northern Kosovo on 25 March, civil society interlocutors and political and community leaders alike pointed to a continued trust deficit particularly vis-à-vis the institutions, while also sharing concerns about what lies ahead given the current political context and developments in the region and beyond. They lamented the unilateral actions taken by the Pristina authorities, including the recent closures of Serbia-run centres of social welfare and the adverse socioeconomic impact that has had. Nevertheless, they saw no alternative to the EU-facilitated dialogue and the need for Kosovo-Serbs to reclaim a sense of agency through a self-management system within the association/community of Serb-majority municipalities. They appealed to the international community to support all efforts for a renewed engagement in good faith with the normalization process. Interlocutors again raised concerns over previous allegations of sexual harassment of Kosovo-Serb women in public. All such allegations need to be investigated. Time and again, I have expressed my concerns regarding the closures of Serbia- run institutions and the consequences they are having on economic and social rights, especially for persons in vulnerable situations. UNMIK will continue to closely monitor their impacts. I also reiterate my call to refrain from unilateral actions and for outstanding issues to be discussed constructively and in good faith within the EU-facilitated dialogue. The recent decision of the Kosovo Government to enable residents with documents from Serbia-run institutions in Kosovo to register civil status documents with the relevant authorities is welcomed. That is one important component in remedying civil status challenges faced by non-majority communities, and Kosovo-Serb residents, in particular. However, key gaps remain, related to the scope, interpretation and implementation of the decision. I encourage enhancing outreach efforts towards the communities concerned and join others in supporting the extension of the current 30 April deadline. I condemn the attack on the Ibar-Lepenac/Ibër-Lepenc water canal on 29 November and reiterate my call for a comprehensive and transparent investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible. I urge all leaders to act responsibly, avoid escalation and cooperate in bringing the perpetrators to justice. More than one year since the serious security incident in Banjska/Banjskë, I reiterate the importance of ensuring accountability through fair and independent judicial proceedings. That case, along with the Ibar-Lepenac/Ibër-Lepenc attack, highlight the need for effective engagement with mutual legal assistance mechanisms to support ongoing investigations and prosecutions. Furthermore, I want to express my concern about the explosive device that was thrown into a newly opened Kosovo post office in Zvečan/Zveçan on 1 April, which I underscore the central role of the Police Inspectorate of Kosovo in ensuring independent investigations into the allegations of excessive use of force and ill- treatment by police in northern Kosovo, including of minors. I call for findings to be made public to promote transparency and institutional trust. While the Inspectorate has opened a number of cases, follow-up and disciplinary action are essential to deter recurrences. In line with international human rights standards, I also encourage authorities to act on the recommendations of United Nations special procedures, including greater use of alternatives to pretrial detention. I am deeply concerned about developments involving the destruction of religious symbols, most recently against the Serbian Orthodox Church, which are incompatible with the right to freedom of religion and pose a risk of heightening religious and inter-ethnic tensions. I call on all to respect religious sites and promote tolerance. I also note the arrest of 16 individuals in Gjakovë/Ðakovica and Prizren on 5 and 6 April, while they were on a religious visit to Pejë/Peć. While most of the pilgrims were released, four are still in remand for 30 days. In the interest of safeguarding community rights, full implementation of the Law on the Use of Languages remains essential. I note the recent expiration of the Language Commissioner’s mandate on 25 January and reiterate the Secretary- General’s call upon the Kosovo authorities to take measures promptly to appoint a Language Commissioner to ensure the protection and promotion of language rights and safeguard the rights of non-majority communities. Trust-building remains fundamental to fostering a stable and prosperous future for all communities in Kosovo. Despite the continued challenges, which reflect a sense of lack of confidence in institutions and concerns over intercommunal relations, UNMIK stands steadfast in its commitment to bridging divides. At the core of our trust-building efforts are initiatives that uphold the rule of law, safeguard human rights and actively promote the inclusion of women and youth in peace processes. In that setting, our Mission is dedicated to fostering efforts on the ground that strive to build trust across communities, specifically by using our programmatic activities to focus on promoting inter-ethnic dialogue and countering divisive narratives to address the trust deficit. The UNMIK-supported Barabar Centre hosted well over 100 events and thousands of participants, demonstrating its role as a hub for inter-ethnic dialogue and a safe space for communities to engage in meaningful conversations towards building a more resilient and inclusive society. Last September, as part of UNMIK’s commitment to promoting women’s inclusion in decision-making and integrating gender perspectives into reconciliation, I had the honour and privilege of participating in a high-level round table in Tirana. That was an event that brought together high-level representatives to advance gender mainstreaming in the process of the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina. UNMIK will continue to work with local partners to strengthen access to justice, support legal aid for all communities and digitalize court archives. Furthermore, and in collaboration with civil society, UNMIK continues to promote property rights through targeted outreach. Working with youth remains at the centre of the Mission’s trust-building projects to foster cultural understanding and long-lasting relationships to further resilient peace, particularly as there is less and less contact between different communities among young people than in earlier generations. In that regard, a project that includes joint visits to each other’s cultural and religious heritage sites involving a growing number of young participants from Kosovo Albanian, Serb, Bosniak, Roma, Ashkali I wish to express my appreciation for the close cooperation and support we receive daily from our international partners, in particular the Kosovo Force, and the strength of our coordination with the United Nations Kosovo team. Together, and with the Council’s continuing support, we will maintain our focus on the rights and well-being of the people in Kosovo. I appeal to everyone in the Council to remain resolute in their support for peace, stability and principled cooperation in Kosovo. Through collective commitment, we can help reinforce credible political dialogue, safeguard fundamental rights and lay firmer foundations for security and increased prosperity. I conclude by extending my deep appreciation to the members of the Council for their sustained engagement with UNMIK’s mission. Their continued attention remains essential to our shared efforts.

I now give the floor to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia.

It is a great honour to address this organ today on behalf of the Republic of Serbia. I take this opportunity to thank Secretary-General António Guterres and Ms. Caroline Ziadeh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), for their continued efforts in implementing the mandate entrusted to UNMIK by resolution 1244 (1999). Serbia’s position remains clear and consistent: we strongly support the continued presence and full engagement of UNMIK. After more than 25 years, the Mission’s mandate has not yet been fulfilled, and the challenges on the ground are growing more complex day by day. UNMIK’s role is not only relevant — it is indispensable. Allow me to outline three key points that I wish to emphasize in my address today. First, international principles must be upheld equally and consistently. In the year in which we mark the eightieth anniversary of the founding of this largest world Organization and the adoption of its most important document — the Charter of the United Nations — I believe that we must all ask ourselves whether we are today closer or further from the goals we have jointly set. We often have the opportunity to hear statements in this very building about the need for, and the importance of, full respect for the United Nations Charter and, in particular, for the principles that guarantee the protection of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of internationally recognized States. I am proud to be the representative of a State that is consistently committed to respect for the United Nations Charter and its fundamental principles, including the necessity of respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of both its own and all other United Nations Member States. It is therefore natural to expect that those rules apply to all Member States and that they are applied in equal manner, including to the Republic of Serbia. I believe that today, whether we want to admit it or not, we are all aware of the consequences of the precedent set in 2008 by the unilateral declaration of independence of Kosovo. We warned in good time that, once the principles of international law are broken, the question is how we can escape this vicious circle. Every country, potentially, could have its own Kosovo. And indeed, since 2008, we have seen an increasing number of situations questioning the status of various regions, Secondly, the situation on the ground in Kosovo and Metohija is deteriorating, and Serbs are paying the price. Given the time constraints of today’s meeting, I cannot possibly list all of the unilateral actions and ethnically motivated incidents committed by the currently governing regime led by Albin Kurti, but I must highlight several that exemplify the disturbing and dangerous pattern captured in his own words: “Serbs must suffer and pay.” In recent months, Pristina has escalated its campaign to systematically dismantle institutions of Serbs throughout Kosovo and Metohija. These are not symbolic gestures. They have direct, painful daily consequences for real people. Salaries, pensions, and social assistance to thousands of Serbian families have been cut off. The very means of survival for many of our compatriots have been placed at risk. On 15 January this year, we witnessed a coordinated effort by Pristina to close institutions of Serbs in Kosovo Polje, Gračanica, Lipljan, Velika Hoča, Orahovac and other enclaves south of the Ibar River. That was not only a political provocation, but it was a calculated attempt to erase the collective identity of Serbs in those communities. It is hard to imagine that anyone could consider such actions conducive to dialogue or reconciliation. Only weeks later, on 21 February, social welfare centres in four northern Serb- majority municipalities were forcibly closed, leaving more than 1,500 vulnerable individuals without access to essential services. In such circumstances, how can we seriously speak of normalization or trust-building? Those examples bring us back to the same question we have been asking for 12 years: when will the community of Serb-majority municipalities, which has been signed and agreed under the auspices of the European Union-facilitated dialogue, be established? The answer, as made clear by Kurti’s actions, is that there is no political will in Pristina to fulfil that legally binding obligation. Instead, we see an ethno-nationalist strategy built to induce fear, intimidation, and exclusion. What we are witnessing is not accidental  — it is the direct fulfilment of a promise made by Albin Kurti himself. On 23 September, he stated, “Serbs will have to suffer and pay”. Those words were not just rhetoric; they have become policy, and their consequences are unfolding before our very eyes. That same strategy was at the heart of Kurti’s campaign ahead of the 9 February elections. Conditions for Serbs to participate were anything but free or fair. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to describe the elections as free and fair in any meaningful sense. For over a month, the official results of the elections in Kosovo and Metohija were not announced, allegedly due to a software error. In the end, one parliamentary seat, rightfully belonging to a Serbian representative, was effectively taken away. That was done by orchestrating the participation of ethnic Albanians to vote for a representative hand-picked by Kurti instead, allowing a candidate to win not through the support of the Serbian community, as prescribed by the Constitution, but predominantly with Albanian votes. To make that paradox even clearer, when similar cases occurred in previous years, where Serbs allegedly voted for candidates from other communities, such elections were swiftly annulled. Such playing with the voting system and practices undermines both democratic integrity and trust in the institutions that are supposed to guarantee fairness and representation for all communities. We have also previously seen that same pattern clearly reflected in the blatant violation of article 96, paragraph 5, of the Recently, Kurti’s regime initiated a widespread campaign of persecution against prominent Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija for their participation in protests in late 2022. That is happening despite written guarantees given to Belgrade and to Kosovo Serbs by the European Union and the United States in December 2022, assuring that no Serb would be arrested or prosecuted for taking part in those demonstrations. On the contrary, Serbs have been arbitrarily detained on the basis of those accusations. What we are witnessing is yet another clear indication that Kurti is determined to follow through on his own words that, again, Serbs will have to suffer and pay. Since Kurti came to power, 20 per cent of the remaining Serbs have left Kosovo and Metohija. Attacks against Serbs have increased by more than 50 per cent. And let us not forget that more than 200,000 Serbs have been displaced since 1999, with fewer than 2 per cent able to return. Those are not just statistics. They are a damning indictment of the reality on the ground — a reality met, all too often, with deafening silence. Let me remind the Council that, since the establishment of the international presence in Kosovo and Metohija, 9,530 ethnically motivated incidents have been recorded. In the reporting period alone, there were 63 such incidents — and in 25 cases, members of the Kosovo police were directly involved. In four of those cases, children were assaulted. Thirteen young people were detained and subjected to physical violence. What kind of message are we sending to future generations? What kind of future are we shaping? Since we last met in this Chamber (see S/PV.9765), the home of Milica Mihajlović, a single mother from Zvečan, was ransacked, and her son was threatened with death by those who are meant to uphold the law. Is that the new reality being imposed on Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija? From where we stand, that is not coexistence. That is repression. For Serbs, Kosovo and Metohija is not just 13 per cent of our territory; it is the heart of who we are. It is the home of our most sacred monasteries, the seat of our Church and the foundation of our identity. It is unacceptable that, in twenty-first- century Europe, despite the presence of thousands of international personnel, the Patriarch of the Serbian Orthodox Church is denied the right to visit the Patriarchate of Peć. Is that the image of the modern, multi-ethnic democracy that Pristina wants the world to believe in? Or is it a carefully curated illusion? What Kurti is doing to the Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija is not an act of care for citizens. It is targeted, deliberate and systematic ethnic revanchism. My third and final quick point is that dialogue remains the only viable path forward, but it must be built on trust. The image that I have presented to the Council today is indeed bleak. In these circumstances, it is difficult to talk about establishing trust, which, we all agree, is a prerequisite for any dialogue, including the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina. We believe that, at this moment, new strength and new energy are needed to revive the dialogue, which has not shown any real progress or results for a long time. In that context, the new European Union (EU) Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue does not have an easy task, but he has our full support in doing everything in his power to establish the necessary trust among all parties in the process in these difficult circumstances. A wise French proverb says: “Mighty oaks from little acorns grow”. We believe that the best way to restart the dialogue is to build the much-needed trust through economic cooperation and infrastructure connectivity, while simultaneously making efforts to implement In conclusion, I can only point out that everything that I have spoken about today must serve as an alarm for the international community. Kurti’s regime must be stopped in his self-proclaimed mission of making Serbs suffer and pay. We take this opportunity to appeal to the Security Council to respond in a meaningful way in order to prevent irreparable damage to the survival of Serbs and other non-majority communities in Kosovo and Metohija and the destabilization of the entire region. I assure the Council that the Republic of Serbia remains clearly committed to building peace and stability, both in Kosovo and Metohija and in the entire region. Despite what some may think and how they choose to act, I am convinced that there is no alternative to dialogue, and I hope that Council members share my view. Serbia will always be on the side of dialogue. However, we must not forget that the di- in dialogue stands for the participation of two sides.

I now give the floor to Ms. Gërvalla-Schwarz. Ms. Gërvalla-Schwarz: I thank you very much, Mr. President, for the opportunity to address the Security Council on behalf of the Republic of Kosova. Let me please begin by reminding all of us of a historic moment. On 24 March 1999, NATO intervened under the leadership of the United States of America to stop a genocide in Europe. After all diplomatic efforts had failed to stop a mass murderer and war criminal, the civilized world took decisive action. That intervention was not only legitimate — it was existential. It represented the protection of the core values of the United Nations and of humankind itself, halting a genocide already in motion, saving countless lives and standing firmly against mass atrocity crimes. It ended Serbia’s genocide and mass killings. From the devastation caused by Serbia’s aggression and from the sorrow of its genocidal campaign, the people of Kosova rose up and emerged stronger. Today, 26 years later, Kosova is a sovereign, independent State governed by the rule of law and aligned with the free world. Kosova is firmly anchored in the West, while maintaining strong ties with all our international partners. The Republic of Kosova is a true example of how international intervention against genocide, with sustained international support, has enabled the establishment and flourishing of a full European and Western democracy. Despite strong opposition from Serbia and Russia and their allies, Kosova has become a full-fledged democracy and a respected international partner. Let me echo the words expressed in the Council of Europe during Kosova’s membership process. Dora Bakoyannis, rapporteur for Kosova’s accession, stated that “Kosovo is a functional democracy that respects human rights and the rights of its communities”. Eighty-two per cent of the members of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe — more than the proportion required — favoured the membership of Kosova in the Council of Europe. And in fact, yes, we are a democratic country, and we are proud of that. In the light of our painful past, we have built institutions that reflect democratic values, the rule of law and human rights. Kosova today is a vibrant democracy — young, resilient and oriented towards Euro- Atlantic integration. But Serbia has not changed very much. It continues trying to destabilize our democracy. Worse, it does so not only through rhetoric, but through concrete, violent actions that endanger regional peace and security. On 29 November 2024, the Iber-Lepenc canal in the Republic of Kosova was deliberately targeted with explosives in a kinetic, military-grade attack against critical civilian infrastructure. That act put at risk not only the water supply, electricity, Internet connectivity and heating for hundreds of thousands of people, including private households, but also schools, hospitals and other essential public services across multiple municipalities. The objective was unmistakable — it was designed to terrorize our population, disrupt daily life and cause widespread harm. Following the attack, the Republic of Kosova officially requested international cooperation to investigate the incident. While Serbian President Vučić publicly pretended that Serbia would investigate and cooperate as well, in fact, Vučić refused to even respond to the many requests made by European and international institutions to live up to his promise. His refusal not only undermines the investigation itself but, moreover, signals his continued and dangerous attitude of protecting murderers and terrorists. We request Serbia to fully cooperate with international investigations and also to hand over Milan Radojičić and other criminals to the authorities of the Republic of Kosovo. Continued impunity only emboldens future acts of aggression. Let me be clear about the status of UNMIK. UNMIK is losing credibility as a source and as a United Nations agency every day. Its behaviour and its actions are making it difficult for observers and the United Nations to get a realistic picture of developments in the country. To be clear, UNMIK is no longer only hindering or hurting Kosova in its development, it is hurting the credibility of the United Nations. Our concerns regarding the continuing presence of UNMIK must not be misunderstood, because Kosova continues to work closely with numerous United Nations agencies, such as the United Nations Development Programme, UNICEF, UN-Women and others, that are partners in our development. However, UNMIK no longer serves a purpose that justifies its continued presence. While other international organizations, such as the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Council of Europe and the European Union, consistently provide assessments of developments in Kosova, UNMIK keeps misrepresenting facts and thereby misleads the Council as well. That is also evident in how the report frames Kosova’s legitimate efforts to enforce the rule of law and combat organized crime. Kosova has achieved significant success in dismantling illegal criminal structures that have long established a space for lawlessness in the four northern municipalities. As part of those efforts, 13 drug laboratories supported by the Serbian State, producing drugs for millions of young victims across Europe and worth hundreds of millions of Euros were dismantled. Weapons depots and other equipment linked to terrorist activities were There is similar misinterpretation in UNMIK’s view of trials in absentia, particularly in cases involving those suspected of war crimes. Those trials are not a matter of choice but a necessity, because Serbia systematically protects war criminals. In one recent case, a court in Brussels — not in Kosova — convicted three individuals for plotting and executing the assassination of a Kosovar journalist in Belgium. Serbia still refuses to extradite them. The same applies to war crime suspects tried in Kosova. In the Rezalle massacre case, three individuals were convicted in absentia for the killing of 98 civilians. Trials in absentia remain the only legal option to ensure justice and counter impunity. We call upon UNMIK to finally address the reality on the ground without misleading ambiguity. Banjska was an act of paramilitary aggression by a State against another State. Iber-Lepenc was a kinetic, military-grade attack by a State against another State’s critical infrastructure. Serbia’s current regime continues to undermine peace not only in Kosova but throughout the region, and it is cracking down on millions of its own citizens in Serbia who want to break free from the regime that has suppressed them for many years. Language matters. How we describe those acts will determine whether deterrence prevails over impunity, and whether aggression is emboldened or pushed back. Kosova remains committed to peace and cooperation. However, peace has never been preserved by tolerating aggression. It has always been preserved by confronting it head-on. As Kosova keeps upholding democracy and the rule of law with overwhelming public and international support, Serbia is heading in the opposite direction. In recent months, once again, literally millions of citizens in Serbia, not in Kosova, led by students and vastly supported by teachers, workers and others, have kept on protesting against the corruption, repression and autocratic regime of President Vučić. While Vučić’s minions, such as Mr. Đurić, Deputy Prime Minister Vulin and others, take turns visiting Moscow, reinforcing Serbia’s alignment with authoritarian Powers, the country’s internal crisis and tension is deepening. Serbia is now under increasing scrutiny in the Council of Europe, is called before the European Court of Human Rights and will face a mounting crisis as long as the Vučić regime keeps rejecting the legitimate requests from democratic forces in Serbia and from its democratic neighbours in the region. At the same time, Kosova keeps moving forward, politically and economically, as a free, peaceful, young and optimistic society. We keep strengthening our institutions, enforcing the law and fighting corruption and criminal networks. We are also strengthening our security. We did so just recently, through a trilateral security and defence agreement with two NATO members, Albania and Croatia. We all know what the root cause for tension in the region is: Serbia exports instability, while Kosovo and its partners export security, partnership and cooperation. And while Serbia refuses to align with Europe on the greatest test of our time, Kosovo stands firmly with its partners in defending Ukraine. We will not waver in our commitment to the victory of Ukraine against Russian aggression and in our defence of its democracy and, with it, European freedom against an imperial, barbaric and ruthless Russian leadership under Putin. In conclusion, we call upon the Security Council and the international community to take clear and decisive action in response to Serbia’s ongoing aggressive action in the region, including against Kosova. Kosova will continue its cooperation with We, as sovereign and peace-loving nations, now need to come together and take the necessary steps to counter the ongoing threats and to secure enduring peace and stability in the Balkans.

I thank Ms. Gërvalla-Schwarz for her statement. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.

At the outset, I would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Ziadeh, for her comprehensive briefing. I also welcome the presence of His Excellency Mr. Marko Đurić, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia, and Ms. Gërvalla-Schwarz of Kosovo. I listened carefully to their remarks, for which I thank them. We have taken note of the Secretary-General’s report and recognize the importance of maintaining peace, security and stability in the region. We acknowledge the ongoing efforts of all parties in pursuing dialogue and seeking constructive solutions to the outstanding issues. Of paramount importance is our steadfast support for the European Union-facilitated dialogue, which remains the primary and most appropriate mechanism for addressing the outstanding issues between Belgrade and Pristina. That established framework provides the necessary structure for achieving sustainable solutions through diplomatic means. We encourage all parties to engage constructively within the format and to implement existing agreements in good faith. In that context, we must emphasize the critical importance of refraining from unilateral actions or rhetoric that could adversely affect the situation on the ground, in particular in northern Kosovo. Recent developments in the region merit our careful consideration. Infrastructure-related challenges and intercommunal concerns affect the daily life of all residents, underlining the importance of maintaining open channels of communication at all levels. In that context, the Council may wish to consider three observations. First, maintaining constructive dialogue through the established channels, with full respect for existing agreements and arrangements, is important. Secondly, there is value in supporting confidence-building measures that can improve daily life for all communities. Thirdly, regional cooperation in addressing the shared challenges continues to hold relevance. We support the United Nations efforts aimed at fostering stability and promoting conditions conducive to the advancement of meaningful dialogue. We acknowledge the vital role of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, under the leadership of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Ziadeh, in building trust and bridging divides between communities on the ground. Moving forward, the Council’s unified support for the diplomatic process remains essential. The international community stands ready to assist all parties in their efforts to find mutually acceptable solutions through peaceful means. We encourage

It is an honour for Panama to welcome His Excellency Mr. Marko Đurić, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia; Her Excellency Ms. Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Kosovo; and His Excellency Mr. Stavros Lambrinidis, Ambassador and Head of the Delegation of the European Union to the United Nations, who are honouring us with their presence. We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, Ms. Caroline Ziadeh, for her valuable and informative briefing. We commend the Kosovar institutions on the holding of peaceful and transparent legislative elections on 9 February and convey our sincerest appreciation to the people of Kosovo; that participation, above all by women and youth, attests to their commitment to democracy and the future of their society. In that connection, we consider it important to draw attention to the observations of the delegation of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, which highlighted with concern the persistence of hate speech directed against women in Kosovo in particular. At the same time, we acknowledge the efforts made by Kosovo to tackle the situation, specifically through measures such as the draft electoral law, which not only promotes transparency but also marks an important step towards strengthening women’s political participation. The full and active participation of the entire population is essential if Kosovo’s social fabric is to be strengthened, not ripped apart. We therefore express our full support for all action that promotes inclusion and human rights for all groups in Kosovo, minorities included. As to the latest developments highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report, we condemn the attack perpetrated on 29 November 2024 against essential civilian infrastructure in northern Kosovo. In the same vein, we reiterate the importance of continuing investigations so that those responsible for both this act and the attack on Kosovar police officers in Banjska in September 2023 are brought to justice. Acts of that kind not only represent a direct threat to regional stability but also undermine and shrink the space for dialogue between the parties and therefore must not be countenanced by the international community as a whole. Furthermore, consistent with its position that regional organizations must play a central role in resolving differences, Panama reaffirms its support for the European Union-facilitated Belgrade-Pristina dialogue process. Provided that it is accompanied by the indispensable political will of the parties, the dialogue represents the most promising path towards peace, cooperation and shared development for the region. The recent creation of the joint commission on missing persons, established as part of the dialogue, is proof of that. In that regard, we urge the parties to work together in a committed manner to prioritize the dignity and reconciliation of the families of those who are missing over any differences. In conclusion, a stable future can only be built between societies that are strengthened through mutual understanding and respect. On that path, a firm commitment to stability, social cohesion and peace must be maintained. We therefore reiterate that Council members’ support for the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo and the European Union missions on the ground remains crucial to making progress towards peacebuilding in the region.

I thank Special Representative Ziadeh for her briefing and welcome both Ministers to the Chamber. According to reports, the security situation in Kosovo remains calm, despite a few serious incidents. I want to start with some encouraging and positive developments. Earlier in the year, Kosovo held peaceful, competitive and inclusive parliamentary elections. That is a positive step forward in strengthening Kosovo’s democratic credentials, and Slovenia very much welcomes it. In a similar vein, we also welcome the recent talks between high officials of the European Union (EU) and the political leaders of Kosovo and Serbia. We praise the renewed commitment of all sides to fostering dialogue and supporting integration into the EU. We also recognize the establishment of the joint commission on missing persons. That is a positive step, and we call on both sides to swiftly commence the commission’s work and to continue to take forward-looking steps in other areas. Our expectations for both sides remain high, and we believe the year 2025 could, and should, mark a fresh start. First, regarding the continuation of the EU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina towards the normalization of relations between Serbia and Kosovo, that process must be furthered. We expect the leadership of both Serbia and Kosovo to address outstanding issues through constructive dialogue. Their leadership must work towards creating an environment of mutual trust and respect, with a focus on long-term stability and reconciliation. We also expect the full implementation, by both parties, of the agreements reached so far. Secondly, regarding de-escalation and refraining from unilateral actions, we expect the concerns of non-majority communities  — particularly the Kosovo Serb community  — to be adequately addressed, especially regarding the closure of institutions providing essential services. We must ensure that the voices of communities  — particularly non-majority groups  — are well heard and their concerns addressed. Progress can be achieved only when all citizens are treated equally and with respect and when all feel welcome in Kosovo. Kosovo’s judicial institutions must promote adequate representation of non-majority communities among judges, prosecutors, notaries and other public law roles, in accordance with Kosovo’s legal framework. We strongly condemn the attack on the Ibar-Lepenac water canal in November 2024 and call for the perpetrators to be held accountable. We expect the same for the attack in Banjska in September 2023. Thirdly, regarding inclusive governance and the establishment of a future of mutual understanding, respect and progress in Kosovo, all political parties must recognize the importance of those principles. The same expectation goes for the international community in Kosovo, which must continue to invest in youth-led initiatives that promote dialogue, understanding and collaboration across ethnic and political divides. The international community’s support is also needed to ensure that United Nations peacekeeping operations, including UNMIK, are regularly reviewed and, when necessary, adapted in terms of their strategic and operational tasks in order to reflect the evolving realities on the ground and thereby better support long- term stability. If for no one else, it is for Kosovo’s youth that things must start moving forward. They deserve a future shaped by shared values of respect, tolerance and solidarity. It is time for the region to break free from the chains of the past and move forward. And with the strong support of the international community, that can be achieved. At the outset, I reiterate Guyana’s firm support for the United Nations Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) and its critical work to promote security, stability and respect for human rights in Kosovo and the region. Guyana thanks the Secretary-General for his report on the activities of the Mission for the period September 2024 to March 2025 and takes careful note of the key political developments. In that regard, we commend Kosovo for the peaceful elections held on 9 February, in which women secured 37.5 per cent of the seats in the legislature. We also took positive note of the new law on general elections aimed at increasing transparency and promoting the greater representation of women through the allocation of financial initiatives. However, we were concerned about the reports of harsh rhetoric, including hate speech and attempts to politicize key institutions. We encourage the parties to work swiftly to form a new Government and urge all political actors to be more responsible in their rhetoric and conduct. Responsible leadership and governance will be key to ensuring that both Kosovo and Serbia reaffirm their commitment to the European Union (EU)-facilitated dialogue. While it is discouraging that the implementation of agreements for the normalization of relations has been stalled, we continue to believe that that mechanism remains the best avenue for achieving a just and lasting peace. We urge both Kosovo and Serbia to negotiate in good faith, with the shared goal of preventing an escalation of tensions. We remain concerned about the unilateral actions being taken by both sides, including actions that could cause harm to ethnic minority communities or that violate the parties’ obligations under the EU-facilitated dialogue. We urge the relevant authorities to exercise restraint and to avoid taking any actions that fuel mistrust. Addressing the concerns of non-majority communities and ensuring the protection of their economic and social rights is an obligation that all Governments must uphold. Guyana condemns the attack of 29 November 2024 on the Ibar-Lepenac canal and calls for a transparent and comprehensive investigation to be conducted and for those responsible to be held to account. We are encouraged by UNMIK’s activities geared towards promoting social cohesion in Kosovo. We commend Special Representative Ziadeh and her team for the initiatives undertaken through the Barabar Centre and the UNMIK-supported projects held as a follow-up to the sixth United Nations Youth Assembly in Kosovo — all aimed at fostering dialogue, building trust among ethnically diverse communities and fostering an inclusive society for all ethnic groups in Kosovo. In conclusion, Guyana reiterates its firm support and belief in a Europe that includes an independent, democratic Kosovo existing peacefully alongside Serbia. With leadership committed to respectful and constructive dialogue and the rejection of bellicose rhetoric, we can make progress towards a reality in which all the peoples of both Serbia and Kosovo thrive in peace and prosperity.

We are grateful to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Caroline Ziadeh, for her briefing on the situation in the province and the assessments she shared. We welcome the participation of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Mr. Marko Đurić, in this meeting. We have listened to Ms. Donika Gërvalla- In general, the report of the Secretary-General reflects a trend towards a significant escalation of the crisis in Kosovo. The main reasons have remained unchanged. They include Pristina’s chauvinistic policy vis-à-vis the Serbian community, as well as the policy of a number of Western countries aimed at undermining the international legal basis for a settlement. The report notes the large-scale liquidation of Serbian institutions in the province, incidents of desecration of Christian shrines and expropriation of land, illegal detention and extrajudicial prosecution of non-Albanian citizens. We would like to note that the rampant lawlessness on the part of the Pristina leadership is a continuation of its policy towards the expulsion of Serb residents. Other artificial problems remain unresolved, including a ban on the circulation of the Serbian dinar, obstacles to the delivery of goods from central Serbia, growing crime against Serbs and their property, the destructive activities of the so-called “mayors” of the four northern municipalities, the obstruction of travel to the province for representatives of Serbia and the Serbian Orthodox Church, and attempts to resume vehicular traffic along the bridge over the Ibar River in Kosovska Mitrovica. Under those circumstances, it is hardly surprising that the pace of the return of refugees and internally displaced persons to the province remains extremely low. In six months, only 55 people have returned, 29 of them are Serbs. And yet there is an ongoing exodus of the Serb population — over the past 18 months, approximately 20 per cent of the Serbs residing there have left Kosovo. In order to reverse that negative trend, Belgrade has initiated the adoption of measures to support the most vulnerable non-Albanian residents of the province. We believe that this is a responsible approach which deserves our full-fledged support. Still, there has been no investigation into the water canal attack of November 2024 in Zubin Potok. The Pristina leadership, without any evidence in hand, as is their custom, has demonstrably pinned the blame on the Serbs, using the incident as a pretext to step up repression and carry out brutal detentions. We have noted the positive assessment in the report regarding the conduct of the 9 February election in the so-called Parliament of the province. And at the same time, what has been disregarded in the report is the exclusion of the largest party of Kosovo Serbs — the Serbian List — from the monitoring mechanisms, as well as the manipulation during the voting process which led to a figure from the local Serb community under the control of the Kosovars being pushed into the so-called “Assembly”. Moreover, the report lacks any information about Pristina’s sabotage of the Brussels agreements of 2013 and 2015 with Belgrade on the establishment of the community of Serb-majority municipalities of Kosovo. Such actions by the Kosovo Albanians run counter to what was agreed upon in the European Union (EU)-facilitated dialogue and render the negotiation process meaningless. The mediators themselves are not helping either. Each unilateral step undertaken by Pristina is met with purely formalistic condemnation and calls to exercise restraint addressed to both sides. Essentially, what they propose to Belgrade is to accept the fait accompli. At the same time, we are shocked by the obstinacy with which EU representatives are advancing Let us recall that, in 2008, the Security Council supported the Secretary-General’s proposal for the EU to play a greater role in the Kosovo settlement, in accordance with resolution 1244 (1999) (see S/PV.5917). Seventeen years have passed. Subsequently, in 2010, the General Assembly welcomed Brussels’ readiness to facilitate dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina (see General Assembly resolution 64/298). Fifteen years have passed. An analysis of the current situation clearly shows that the EU is not in the position to exert any influence on Pristina. Albin Kurti openly said during the election campaign that he has no intention whatsoever to establish the community of Serb-majority municipalities in Kosovo. With regard to Brussels, it has stubbornly turned a blind eye to the tragedy of anti-Serb ethnic cleansing in Kosovo and incites the provisional self-governing bodies in Pristina to continue to oppress the Serb population. The European mediation has proved to be a complete failure. We do not understand why the EU delegation requested to participate in today’s meeting under these circumstances. Apparently, it wants to remind us of its existence, and, through the Security Council’s authority, attempt to burnish its completely tarnished reputation when it comes to the question of a resolution. It may seem paradoxical, but the efforts of the Pristina regime and its NATO patrons are aimed at exacerbating the main problems of the province rather than solving them. Recently there was an announcement that the establishment of the so-called Kosovo army is entering its final phase. There are ongoing deliveries of materiel from NATO countries. We are referring to drones, armoured vehicles, anti-tank vehicles, artillery pieces and other weaponry. There are plans to procure air defence systems and helicopter gunships. The foundations are being laid for the establishment of a local defence industry. All that is an egregious breach of resolution 1244 (1999). We are particularly concerned by the signing, on 18 March, by Zagreb, Tirana and Pristina of a joint declaration on some kind of cooperation on defence. At the same time, the so-called “Prime Minister”, Albin Kurti, is openly talking about the anti-Serb focus of that alliance and promoting the dangerous greater Albania rhetoric. Furthermore, he is announcing a sharp increase in the military budget, cynically emphasizing the succession between the so-called Kosovo security forces and the former terrorist Kosovo Liberation Army, whose leaders are presently on trial at The Hague. We trust that the special court established there will carry out its tasks so that all perpetrators of the crimes will be duly punished. We believe that, in order to stabilize the situation in the province, Pristina must lift its discriminatory decision against the Serb population as soon as possible and its Western patrons must revisit their approaches towards the militarization of the province and the Kosovo settlement as a whole. Specifically, it is high time to propel the wayward regime to establish the community of Serb-majority municipalities in Kosovo, as was enshrined in the Brussels agreements more than 10 years ago. I wonder whether we will hear today from the EU representative about what real steps they intend to undertake to break this deadlock. The facts that we have voiced today further reaffirm the need to keep the situation in Kosovo on the agenda of the Security Council, regardless of attempts by the representatives and patrons of the Pristina regime to persuade us of the opposite, especially given that this situation is particularly at odds with the rosy picture that the representatives of Pristina are painting. Given the lack of progress in the settlement, the international community’s focus on Kosovo should not wane. We categorically object to reducing the frequency and changing the format of Security Council meetings on the Kosovo issue, and we object to limiting the funding and staffing for UNMIK. We support the prompt achievement by Belgrade and Pristina of a lasting and mutually acceptable solution on the basis of resolution 1244 (1999). That is the only possible solution, and it must be endorsed by the Council.

I thank Special Representative Ziadeh for her briefing. I also recognize the presence of, and remarks from, the Foreign Minister of Kosovo. We recognize the Special Representative’s leadership and the past efforts of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) to foster dialogue and legal reform in Kosovo. But the time to draw down UNMIK has arrived. We recommend that UNMIK begin transferring its functions to other United Nations agencies on the ground better suited for this work so that the process towards ultimately terminating the Mission is deliberate and gradual rather than sudden. The United States is committed to rooting out unnecessary spending in international organizations. UNMIK is a peacekeeping mission without peacekeepers, with 81 per cent of its budget going to staff salaries, even as the Mission has long outlived its original mandate. The United States calls on fellow Council members to revisit UNMIK’s mandate so that we may together commence an orderly winding down of its operations. The time to begin that transition is overdue. As we have said before, UNMIK no longer has a role in the governance of Kosovo, and the Mission remains overresourced and overstaffed. With respect to future meetings on UNMIK, we strongly recommend that they be closed-door meetings, as a closed format would foster a more candid and less performative discussion. We also believe these briefings should be further reduced to annual meetings given the demands on the Security Council’s time. Kosovo and Serbia must work to lower tensions, refrain from escalatory measures and build peace and stability between them and within the broader region as a foundation for a more prosperous future. The ultimate goal must be for mutual recognition. The normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia is essential to stability in the Western Balkans. America and the global community are safer when countries resolve their conflicts peacefully and more prosperous when they create the climate for expanding international trade and investment.

I welcome the presence of His Excellency Mr. Marko Đurić, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia. I also thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Caroline Ziadeh for her briefing. I listened carefully to the remarks made by Ms. Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz. At the outset, I would like to take good note of the organization of legislative elections in February, an important vote that was conducted peacefully and without major incident. In that regard, we welcome the representation of women in the new Assembly, with more than 37 per cent of the seats. I would also like to note the progress made through the European Union-facilitated dialogue in advancing the implementation of agreements between the two parties. Against that backdrop, I would like to stress the following. First, maintaining peace and security in Kosovo is critical to avoid any escalation of tensions. It is important, in that regard, to refrain from taking any step that could lead to escalation, including unilateral actions that affect the socioeconomic situation of non-majority communities. It is also important to conduct a comprehensive and transparent investigation to hold those responsible for the water canal attack accountable. Secondly, building trust among communities is vital for creating an environment conducive to dialogue. In that vein, we stress, once again, the need to undertake the necessary measures to establish the long-awaited association/community of Serb-majority municipalities. Equally important is the need to ensure adequate representation of Kosovo Serbs and other minorities in local and judicial institutions. Thirdly, we appreciate the vital role of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, under the leadership of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Caroline Ziadeh. We encourage the Mission to continue its efforts and engagement with all stakeholders so as to promote security, stability and respect for human rights in Kosovo. Fourthly, we call upon the parties to strengthen their engagement in the European Union-facilitated dialogue and to uphold their commitment to implementing all the agreements in that framework. Diplomacy and negotiations are key to reaching a just, and peaceful solution that guarantees a prosperous future for all. Finally, Algeria reiterates its support for all efforts towards a mutually acceptable solution in line with resolution 1244 (1999) and with full respect for the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.

I thank Ms. Caroline Ziadeh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), for her comprehensive briefing. Sierra Leone welcomes the participation of His Excellency Mr. Marko Đurić, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia; Ms. Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz; and His Excellency Mr. Stavros Lambrinidis, Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to the United Nations. We take note of the Secretary-General’s report and of the report of the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo. Sierra Leone commends the collective efforts of all actors on the ground, local political authorities, civil society and international partners, who are working tirelessly to advance Kosovo’s stability and development. We welcome the successful elections held earlier this year, in February, and we particularly commend the consultative approach employed in the lead-up to the elections. The certification of the election results presents a critical opportunity to restore trust in governing institutions and contribute to building an inclusive and peaceful society for Kosovo’s multi-ethnic people. We hope that that spirit continues in the forthcoming mayoral elections in the four municipalities of northern Kosovo. The EU accession path remains the most viable route for Kosovo’s development, and the terms of the implementation annex cannot be bypassed. We reiterate our call for deeper cooperation between Belgrade and Pristina to ensure the full implementation of the Ohrid agreement. Given the escalating tensions and socioeconomic stagnation in the Western Balkans, which risk sparking conflict with potential spillover effects, we propose the following measures to support peacebuilding, stability and the continued implementation of the agreement. First, we urge both parties to recognize that failure to comply with the terms of the agreement will have negative consequences for all involved. We call for the full and good-faith implementation of the agreement, without selectivity, to ensure comprehensive progress, particularly in the context of EU accession. The lack of progress towards establishing the association/community of Serb-majority municipalities is concerning, particularly as the welfare of some communities in Kosovo is being adversely affected by the Kosovo authorities’ shutdown of Serbia- run administrative services, especially those related to social welfare. We note Belgrade’s commitment in that regard and urge Pristina to take immediate, decisive action to address the challenges faced by those communities. The protection of human rights must be prioritized, and the concerns of these communities should not be overshadowed by the need for State control. Secondly, while the security situation appears stable, peace remains fragile. We are deeply concerned by incidents of violence resulting in damage to critical infrastructure and property. Sierra Leone condemns all forms of violence, particularly acts of terror, intimidation and hate, which have occurred in certain areas. Divisive rhetoric, including hate speech directed at women in politics, is unacceptable and must not be tolerated as a means of expressing dissent or dissatisfaction. We recognize the invaluable role of civil society organizations and urge authorities to engage in dialogue and take swift action to investigate and hold accountable the persons responsible for those incidents, including the incidents in Banjska in 2023. We also acknowledge the efforts of UNMIK in fostering trust between communities and advancing the women and peace and security and the youth, peace and security agenda. Thirdly, building a society that reflects and serves the needs of all of Kosovo’s diverse people cannot happen in isolation. Doing so requires the active participation of all community members at every level. We welcome the efforts of the Kosovo Judicial Council and the Kosovo Prosecutorial Council to include judges, prosecutors and support staff from the Kosovo Serb and non-majority communities. We encourage further efforts to ensure meaningful representation, which fosters trust and understanding and challenges negative perceptions. Such an approach empowers marginalized groups and contributes to a more equitable and vibrant society. We also urgently call for cooperation from those groups to integrate their unique perspectives and cultural experiences into Kosovo’s governance and administration. In conclusion, Sierra Leone commends the Specialist Chambers and the Specialist Prosecutor’s Office for their progress in bringing perpetrators to justice and providing redress to victims. While acknowledging the critical role of United

I thank Special Representative Ziadeh for her briefing, and let me also welcome the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Serbia and Kosovo, as well as the Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU), Ambassador Lambrinidis, to today’s briefings. Denmark is a long-standing supporter of peace and stability in Kosovo — not just in words, but in deed. Since 1999, more than 10,000 Danish soldiers have served in Kosovo. That support continues to this day. We were also among the first countries to recognize Kosovo as an independent State. We fully support its European path and integration into the international system. It has been more than 25 years since the horrific conflict in Kosovo ended. Significant steps have been taken since then. Denmark commends Kosovo for those achievements, along with the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) for its important and long-lasting work in cooperation with the Kosovo Force (KFOR), the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo and other international partners. Across United Nations peace operations, we need to ensure that mission mandates reflect the reality on the ground. Denmark is therefore open to dialogue on a possible strategic review that could be useful for UNMIK’s future efforts. We also commend the Kosovo institutions for the peaceful conduct of recent legislative elections that were inclusive and competitive. Despite positive developments, challenges do remain. I would like to make three points. First, a normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia is essential. Steps to that end will pave the way towards a stable, secure and prosperous region. The EU-facilitated dialogue offers the only viable path forward. We welcome the progress achieved during the recent reporting period, including on the establishment of the joint commission on missing persons. We encourage both parties to continue to engage constructively, fulfil their obligations under all existing agreements and seek compromise. In that regard, it is crucial that Kosovo establish an association of Serb-majority municipalities and that Serbia not oppose Kosovo’s membership of international organizations. We welcome the new EU Special Representative, Mr. Peter Sørensen, and his efforts to continue taking the dialogue forward. Secondly, we are concerned about the continued fragile situation in northern Kosovo. We regret that numerous incidents continue to generate tensions between Kosovo Serbs and the Kosovo authorities. We discourage unilateral actions that heighten tensions, jeopardize trust and have an impact on the daily lives of individuals, in particular, of non-majority communities. Better coordination and engagement with the communities is crucial and in line with the multi-ethnic vision of Kosovo. The attacks against KFOR personnel and the violent attack in Banjska in 2023 remain clear and serious reminders of the continued and pressing need to de-escalate tensions. It is important that the perpetrators are identified and, importantly, face justice. We deeply regret that Serbia has not taken sufficient steps in that regard. We also strongly condemn the more recent attack on the Ibar-Lepenac water canal in November 2024. Thirdly, building trust is key to lasting peace. Healing the scars of conflict takes commitment and time. Political leaders from both sides have an important role to play. They need to set an example of mutual understanding and cooperation between the communities. Importantly, they should refrain from stoking tensions and In conclusion, now is the time to consolidate the positive developments and to refrain from actions that serve only to heighten tensions. The year 2025 offers a new opportunity for progress. Denmark stands ready to support both parties, UNMIK and any initiatives to that end.

Let me start by thanking the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) for her informative briefing. I also welcome the presence of the Ministers from Serbia and Kosovo, as well as the participation of the Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) in today’s meeting. Greece commends the commitment of UNMIK, and Ms. Ziadeh personally, to promoting security, stability and respect for the rule of law and the protection of human rights in Kosovo. The presence of the United Nations signals a long- lasting commitment to the well-being, peaceful coexistence and reconciliation of all communities. The UNMIK mandate, in accordance with resolution 1244 (1999), is interlinked with the normalization of relations between Serbia and Kosovo and a final political settlement. Greece supports the continuation of its mandate for as long as is necessary. UNMIK coordination with the Kosovo Force and the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo is vital for achieving long-lasting solutions and embedding peace and stability in the region. There is now an absolute need to move forward with the normalization process of bilateral relations between Serbia and Kosovo. Both sides must remain fully engaged with the EU-facilitated dialogue and must work ardently for the full implementation of the Brussels-Ohrid agreements. It is of paramount importance that both parties demonstrate their willingness to achieve progress in the dialogue and exercise the utmost restraint in avoiding actions that trigger tensions and aggravate the situation on the ground. The renewed European Union integration prospect of the Western Balkans, and Serbia and Kosovo in particular, remains the main anchor of stability and prosperity for both sides and the region as a whole. We welcome the appointment of Mr. Peter Sørensen as the EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, and we express our strong support for his tasks in that regard. We also welcome the compromise reached last December by Serbia and Kosovo on the terms of reference for the joint commission on missing persons as a positive development towards reconciliation and mutual trust and encourage further progress in that respect. Although we recognize that both sides have undertaken positive steps in the direction of the normalization of bilateral relations, we cannot ignore that divisive rhetoric is dominant in public speech, undermining the progress that has been achieved over the years. Greece deplores the increase in unilateral actions taken in northern Kosovo. The situation remains volatile, and we are deeply concerned about uncoordinated actions that endanger regional stability. At the same time, the status of Serbian parallel structures must be resolved within the framework of the EU-facilitated dialogue through the establishment of the association/community of Serb- majority municipalities. We strongly condemn the Banjska attack of 2023, as well as the attack on the Ibar-Lepenac canal of November 2024. The perpetrators of those violent acts must be brought to justice in a transparent manner and with full respect for the principle of the rule of law. Furthermore, the disproportionate deployment of Kosovo police forces in northern Kosovo as a response to peaceful protests is deeply alarming. We repeat our call for restraint and unconditional respect for the human rights and freedoms of all communities in Kosovo. Trust and reconciliation remain at the core of the process for the normalization of relations between Serbia and Kosovo. The role of women and youth in that process is essential for building the necessary bonds among communities. Inclusive initiatives, as well as projects to combat all forms of violence against women, remain a central part of the path to reconciliation. Moreover, efforts must be accelerated in advancing the return of refugees and displaced persons in a secure environment. Property rights must also be fully protected. In conclusion, let me reiterate that Greece remains a staunch supporter of the EU perspective of the Western Balkans, our immediate neighbourhood. Since the Thessaloniki Declaration of the EU-Western Balkans Summit of 2003, the key principles and foundations of the European integration process have remained unchanged and provide a shared, future-oriented European vision, based on the values of democracy, the rule of law, respect for human and minority rights, solidarity and respect for international law, including the inviolability of borders. Dialogue and the peaceful resolution of conflicts are the only way forward for safeguarding stability and prosperity for the entire Western Balkans region.

Let me begin by thanking the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and her team for all the work that they are doing in Kosovo and for the briefing today, and let me welcome the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Serbia and Kosovo to the Chamber, as well as the delegation of the European Union. The United Kingdom is a long-standing friend of Kosovo. We remain committed to supporting Kosovo’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations and its development of an inclusive and multi-ethnic democracy. During his visit to Kosovo last week, the United Kingdom’s Foreign Secretary reaffirmed our commitment to that goal. We welcome Kosovo’s recent elections. They were assessed by international observers as peaceful and competitive. The United Kingdom looks forward to working closely with whomever forms the next Government. As a strong supporter of Kosovo’s statehood, we welcome Kenya’s recent recognition of Kosovo, adding to the many countries recognizing Kosovo across the globe. We encourage those that have yet to recognize Kosovo’s independence to do so. While the Secretary-General’s report rightly points out the pressure felt by many Kosovo Serbs, we also welcome actions that have been taken to improve community relations, such as Kosovo’s successful efforts to recruit police officers from non-majority communities. We regret, however, that no judges or prosecutors from non-majority communities have, to our knowledge, asked to be considered for reintegration into the Kosovo institutions. We look forward to the active participation of Kosovo Serbs in peaceful municipal elections during the next reporting period. We strongly encourage Serbia to bring to justice without further delay those responsible for the 2023 attacks on Kosovo Force troops and in Banjska and to fulfil its pledge to cooperate in the investigation of the attack on the Iber-Lepenc canal. I would like to end by expressing the United Kingdom’s gratitude to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and all Mission staff who have contributed to the work of the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK). However, with conditions on the ground now unrecognizable from 1999, as we have said before, we believe it is time for the Council to review UNMIK’s role and responsibilities to ensure it can continue to effectively support security, stability and human rights in Kosovo, in a way that reflects the world of 2025.

I welcome the presence of the Serbian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Đurić, at today’s meeting. I listened carefully to the briefing by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Ziadeh. I wish to make the following points. First, in the recent period, the Kosovo authorities have forced the closure of a number of Serbian-run institutions, repeatedly violated the security of Serbs, encroached on and narrowed their living space and triggered tensions on the ground. China expresses its grave concern in that regard. We urge the Kosovo authorities to stop those erroneous moves, to earnestly respect and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the Serb community and to reduce ethnic tensions. Secondly, in recent years the Kosovo authorities have taken a series of unilateral actions  — such as mandatory requirements regarding identification cards and vehicle licence plates; the insistence of holding municipal elections in four northern municipalities; the ban on the Serbian currency, the dinar; violent searches targeting Serbs in northern Kosovo; and the push to open the Ibar River bridge — that have frequently created trouble and led to continued tensions and volatility in northern Kosovo. We urge the Kosovo authorities to stop unilateral actions, to return to the right track of dialogue and consultation and to work with the parties concerned to maintain peace and stability on the ground. Thirdly, last November, an explosion occurred at a canal in northern Kosovo. The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and the international community have called for a comprehensive investigation. Serbia has stated its readiness to provide its support to the investigation at any time. We urge the Kosovo authorities to conduct a transparent and an impartial investigation into the incident and not rush to conclusions, which could once again escalate tensions and exacerbate confrontation. Fourthly, the coexistence of multi-ethnic communities in Kosovo is shaped by history. Tolerance, reconciliation and harmonious coexistence among all communities serve the long-term and fundamental interests of all parties. The 2013 Brussels Agreement should be scrupulously observed. The establishment of the association of Serb-majority municipalities is an important element of the agreement and a key obstacle to the current dialogue process between the two sides. We urge the Kosovo authorities to implement it promptly through concrete actions. Fifthly, the European Union has long been working to promote a settlement of the Kosovo issue. We hope that the European Union will maintain an objective and a neutral position and use its good offices in a fair and impartial manner. We hope that Sixthly, the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) plays an important role in maintaining stability and promoting national reconciliation. The United Nations and the Security Council should continue to maintain their attention and provide input on the Kosovo issue. All the parties concerned should also support UNMIK in fully implementing its mandate and support the work of Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ziadeh. China’s position on the Kosovo issue is consistent and clear: we support the parties concerned in reaching, within the framework of resolution 1244 (1999), a mutually acceptable solution through dialogue and consultation. In that process, the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Serbia should be fully respected. I wish to emphasize that the countries and the peoples of the Balkans have suffered too much from war and conflict. All parties should learn the lessons of history and work together to prevent the Balkans from being plunged back into turmoil. China stands ready to work with all the parties concerned in order to continue promoting enhanced dialogue and engagement, peaceful coexistence among the ethnic communities of the region and a swift political settlement of the Kosovo issue.

Allow me to begin by thanking Special Representative of the Secretary-General Caroline Ziadeh for her detailed briefing. I would also like to welcome Foreign Minister Marko Đurić of Serbia and Foreign Minister Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz of Kosovo to this meeting. At the outset, I would like to reaffirm my country’s earnest desire to see peace and stability prevail in the region. We commend the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and her team for their efforts in pursuance of their mandate, particularly in facilitating intercommunal and inter-ethnic trust-building and in countering divisive narratives through dialogue and projects that help to promote harmony, reconciliation and understanding among Kosovo’s diverse communities. Given the region’s complex history, that work is of fundamental importance. I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Government of Kosovo and its Central Election Commission for the successful conduct of the legislative elections on 9 February, which, according to observer reports, were peaceful, inclusive and participatory. My delegation remains convinced that a constructive and sustained dialogue is the only path towards lasting peace, stability and tranquillity in the region. The 2013 Brussels Agreement and the 2023 Agreement on the Path to Normalization between Kosovo and Serbia provide a solid framework and a foundation for the two sides to move in the direction of the normalization of their relations and for advancing mutual understanding, peaceful coexistence and development for the peoples of the region. We appreciate the European Union’s continued efforts to facilitate dialogue and call upon both Belgrade and Pristina to demonstrate sincere commitment to the political process, earnestly fulfil their respective obligations and commitments under the agreements mentioned and refrain from unilateral actions that could escalate tensions. The prevalent tense situation in northern Kosovo is a matter of concern. The attack on the Ibar-Lepenac water canal, along with other acts of violence targeting police and Government buildings, are deeply troubling and condemnable. The perpetrators of those attacks, including the Banjska attack of 2023, should be brought to justice swiftly, in accordance with the rule of law. We are equally disturbed by reports of targeted attacks on religious sites, including the desecration of Serbian Both Kosovo and Serbia are friends of Pakistan. When we discuss this issue, we are reminded of the tragic past and, while being mindful of the complexities that need to be understood and addressed, we also see the imperative of looking forward to a peaceful and harmonious future. In that context and in conclusion, I would like to once again reiterate that peace and stability in Kosovo and the prosperity and well-being of all its people, and indeed the wider region, can be achieved only through steadfast commitment to dialogue and diplomacy and by avoiding divisive political rhetoric, by addressing outstanding issues and by adopting a constructive and mutually respectful approach that would lead us to lasting peace, which is the shared objective of the Council and, I believe, of the international community.

Let me begin by expressing my appreciation to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Ziadeh, for her comprehensive and timely briefing. The Republic of Korea also welcomes His Excellency Mr. Marko Đurić, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia, and Her Excellency Ms. Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, Deputy Prime Minister of Kosovo, to the Council. The Republic of Korea remains steadfast in its support for peace, reconciliation and prosperity in the Western Balkans. We reaffirm our consistent position that the normalization of relations between Serbia and Kosovo must be pursued exclusively through peaceful means — political dialogue and negotiations within the framework of the process facilitated by the European Union (EU). Despite some encouraging developments since the 2023 Agreement, the situation remains fragile. As reflected in the Secretary-General’s latest report, provocative unilateral actions and inflammatory rhetoric, particularly in the lead-up to the legislative elections in Kosovo, have exacerbated divisions, eroded mutual trust and hindered the normalization process. We are particularly concerned about incidents that threaten stability and affect the daily lives of vulnerable communities. Those include the closure of Serbian-run institutions in Kosovo, the attack on the Ibar- Lepenac water canal, which damaged critical infrastructure serving ethnic Serbian communities, and the recent grenade attack on the Kosovo post office in Zvečan. Such actions undermine efforts towards peace and must be condemned. All parties must refrain from unilateral measures and avoid statements that could further inflame tensions. The violent attack against Kosovo police in Banjska in 2023 remains unresolved, highlighting the pressing need for transparent investigations and the rule of law to prevail. Accountability is essential to rebuilding trust and ensuring justice. In that regard, we welcome the establishment of the joint commission on missing persons as a constructive and confidence-building step. Trust-building among the parties to a conflict takes time and requires patience. Addressing the painful issue of missing persons may seem a small matter, but it is a deeply meaningful effort that can serve as a cornerstone of conflict resolution. We hope that both sides will engage in good faith and that the mechanism will contribute meaningfully to truth, justice and reconciliation. Furthermore, we commend the peaceful conduct of Kosovo’s recent legislative elections and welcome the significant participation of women and youth. The Republic of Korea shares the Secretary-General’s assessment that sustainable peace in Kosovo depends on inclusive dialogue, trust-building and the protection of human rights. The meaningful participation of all communities and the safeguarding of the economic and social rights of vulnerable groups must remain a priority. In that regard, we reaffirm our strong support for the EU’s facilitation efforts and underline the vital role played by the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) in coordination with the Kosovo Force, the European Union Rule of Law With serious conflicts ongoing around the world, we sincerely hope that this region does not further deteriorate into a protracted or intractable conflict. The Republic of Korea stands ready to contribute to international efforts aimed at advancing the region’s path towards peaceful coexistence.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of France. I thank the Special Representative, Ms. Caroline Ziadeh, for her presentation and assure her of France’s full support for her mission. I welcome the presence of His Excellency Mr. Marko Djuric, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia, and Her Excellency Ms. Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Kosovo. France welcomes the holding of parliamentary elections in Kosovo on 9 February. They took place without any major security incidents. They were competitive and inclusive, as confirmed by the European Union Election Observation Mission. France welcomes the participation of the Kosovo Serbs. We hope that a Government will be formed quickly in order to move forward with the implementation of the Brussels- Ohrid agreements, which is our priority. Serbia and Kosovo are aware of France’s constant commitment, alongside Germany, to help to normalize their relations. That normalization is an essential condition for their integration into the European Union, to which the populations of both countries aspire. On 1 February, Mr. Peter Sørensen was appointed as the new European Union Special Representative for the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina. It is up to him to give new impetus to the dialogue with a view to reaching an agreement that settles the differences between the two countries in a lasting and definitive manner. That is also the objective pursued by the Security Council. For that normalization to happen, France calls on Serbia and Kosovo to respect the commitments made in the framework of the Brussels-Ohrid agreements. However, on 15 January, the Kosovar Government announced the closure of Serb administrative structures in Kosovo. That decision is detrimental to the daily lives of Kosovo Serbs. France deplores that unilateral action and recalls that the status of Serbian structures must be resolved through the creation of the Association/Community of Kosovo Serb Municipalities on the basis of the draft European statute. France will continue to be attentive to the situation of the Serb population in Kosovo. Preserving the multi-ethnic character of Kosovar society requires the restoration of representative democracy in northern Kosovo. In that regard, France calls on the Kosovo Serbs to re-establish their active participation in local governance, law enforcement and the judicial system. It is also unacceptable that the perpetrators of the attack in Banjska are still at large. They must be held accountable before the courts. France also condemns the attack on 29 November 2024 on the Ibar-Lepenac canal in Zubin Potok and calls on the parties to shed full light on the circumstances surrounding the attack. We welcome the Serbian President’s commitment to supporting the investigations and calls on the Serbian authorities to cooperate fully with the European Union’s legal assistance mechanism. Lastly, France commends the work carried out by the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) to strengthen the rule of law, respect for human rights and reconciliation between the communities in Kosovo. Its efforts to rebuild confidence, particularly among young people, are essential for Kosovo’s stability and security. For example, I welcome the activities carried out within I now resume my functions as President of the Council. The representative of the United States has asked for the floor to make a further statement.

I apologize for asking for the floor again. However, I realize that I read my remarks slightly too quickly and inadvertently neglected to acknowledge the presence of the Serbian Minister for Foreign Affairs, and that was simply an oversight on my part. I apologize to Minister Đurić.

I now give the floor to Mr. Lambrinidis. Mr. Lambrinidis: I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union (EU) and its member States. The candidate countries North Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, the Republic of Moldova and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as Andorra, align themselves with this statement. Like others in the Chamber, allow me to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for her briefing and the two Ministers for their presence. The European Union and the Western Balkans share a common future and face urgent challenges that we can only overcome together. We owe it to our citizens to build a future of peace and prosperity, based on shared principles and values and common interests. The future of the Western Balkans is in our European Union. We once again reconfirm our full and unequivocal commitment to the European Union membership perspective of the Western Balkans. The General Assembly welcomed the readiness of the European Union to facilitate a process of dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia. The European Union welcomes the fact that Serbia and Kosovo reaffirmed their commitment to the EU- facilitated dialogue and the process of normalization of their relations and pledged constructive engagement in the process to move it forward quickly. We reiterate that the agreement on the path to normalization between Kosovo and Serbia and its implementation annex adopted in February and March 2023, respectively, must be fully respected and implemented as soon as possible, without preconditions, as with all EU-related commitments, along with other pending commitments reached in the EU-facilitated dialogue, led by the High Representative, Ms. Kaja Kallas and supported by the EU Special Representative, Mr. Peter Sørensen. That includes the establishment of the association/community of Serb-majority municipalities in Kosovo. And Serbia is expected to initiate the recognition of Kosovo’s documents and symbols. The European Union remains deeply concerned about the situation in the north of Kosovo. Kosovo and Serbia must pursue sustained de-escalation efforts, refrain from unilateral and provocative actions that could lead to tensions and violence and avoid divisive rhetoric. We call on Kosovo to enable the reintegration of Kosovo Serb judges, prosecutors, police officers and other personnel into all the Kosovo institutions they left in 2022. The Council of the European Union has expressed its expectation that the reintegration will be done without preconditions by Serbia, in accordance with dialogue agreements and with full respect for Kosovo’s legal framework. I would also like to reiterate the European Union’s expectations that Serbia will fully cooperate and take all the necessary measures to apprehend and urgently bring to justice the perpetrators of the 2023 attacks in the north of Kosovo. In that context, allow me to underline the need for full accountability and that we deeply regret that Serbia has taken insufficient actions in that respect. The European Union recalls the importance of Kosovo’s close cooperation with the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo, as well as other relevant international actors. We reiterate the importance of and our support for the work of the Kosovo Specialist Chambers and the Specialist Prosecutor’s Office, and we underline our readiness to assist them in the implementation of their mandate. (spoke in French) The European Union would like to welcome the multiparty parliamentary elections of February, which were held without incident with the participation of all communities, under a new Kosovo electoral law regime, implementing the recommendations of previous European Union electoral missions. We invite all members of the Kosovo Parliamentary Assembly who belong to the Kosovo Serb community to participate actively and constructively in the work of the Assembly. It is essential that inclusive municipal elections be held this autumn, with the full participation of Kosovo Serbs without preconditions, in the four northern municipalities. (spoke in English) In conclusion, the European Union expects Serbia and Kosovo to engage in good faith in the EU-facilitated dialogue on a comprehensive legally binding agreement on the normalization of relations in accordance with international law and EU law without further delay. The normalization of relations and the implementation of their dialogue commitments are essential conditions on the European path of both parties, and both risk losing important opportunities in the absence of progress. Finally, it bears repeating, as I underlined at the start of this intervention, that the European Union and the Western Balkans share a common future. Even as we face urgent challenges, we can and will overcome them only together.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia has asked for the floor to make a further statement. I now give him the floor.

I express my concern and regret owing to the fact that we have not heard a single word of commitment to the dialogue or to the implementation of the agreements reached under the European Union (EU)-facilitated dialogue by Ms. Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz here today. What we have heard instead was a series of accusations against my Government and against the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), which is unacceptable and actually sends a very bad message about the relations towards a Mission sent to Kosovo by the Secretary-General and this body. Finally, if we are talking about the ethnic composition of the population of Kosovo and Metohija then and now, we should also present the facts clearly and say that in Kosovo and Metohija today more than 90 per cent of the people are ethnic Albanians and that Serbs have suffered in previous decades, been victims of crimes and been expelled from their centuries-old homes and forced to leave their homes owing to intimidation discrimination and threats, as has been well-documented in the reports of UNMIK and other international monitoring missions. If we really want to build a common future, we must act responsibly. We must say that the biggest victims in Kosovo and Metohija are innocent civilians, regardless of their ethnicity. We cannot allow one side to completely assume and claim the role of victim and deny any crimes committed against the Serbian population. The families of the harvesters in Staro Gracko, the children killed in Goraždevac, the victims near Radonjić Lake and in Klečka, as well as each of the 200,000 Serbs who were expelled from Kosovo and Metohija by the so-called Kosovo Liberation Army, of whom only 1.9 per cent were able to sustainably return and who even today cannot return to their homes in Kosovo and Metohija, also deserve answers. Ms. Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz also referred to the report by Dora Bakoyannis about the situation in Kosovo and Metohija which was used in front of the Council of Europe, but she failed to mention that in that report clear demands were made to return the land to the Visoki Dečani Monastery to establish the community of Serb- majority municipalities and also to end the practice of unlawfully expropriating Serbian land. And in fact, none of those demands made by the Council of Europe Special Rapporteur have been met. That is a very important fact that was omitted here, I believe, purposefully. Also, I need to emphasize that, when it comes to the attacks in Banjska and on the Ibar-Lepenac canal, Serbia clearly condemned those incidents. In fact, we demand accountability and clarity, as, unfortunately, out of the four individuals who tragically lost their lives in the Banjska attack, three were ethnic Serbs and one was an ethnic Albanian. And our Government unequivocally condemned those incidents and attacks. But premature claims about responsibility and, more significantly, denying information to the investigation, which has been requested by Serbian authorities through the mutual legal assistance mechanisms, does not help achieve justice on those issues. It is also worth noting that when it comes to the Ibar-Lepenac attack, the Serbian community in Kosovo is the primary community that has been affected by the disruption in the supply of drinking water and electricity and that Serbia has also offered assistance to repair the damage that has been done and which has since thankfully been accomplished. Also, I would like to welcome the interest expressed by Ms. Gërvalla-Schwarz in domestic Serbian politics. It is always good to hear that there is will on the part of representatives from Pristina to engage actively in Serbian politics. However, the insults that were mentioned here by Ms. Gërvalla-Schwarz against the Serbian leadership and President Vučić will not contribute to normalizing relations or to improving the political climate. Accusations against, and the smearing of, President Vučić are not something that is welcome, and I just want to say that, speaking of Finally, amid the current situation, the Republic of Serbia has justified concerns following the latest news about the signing of a trilateral memorandum on security cooperation, by which Albania and Croatia, together with the representative of the Provisional Institutions in Pristina, have taken steps to undermine the stability in the region, sending a message that they do not want a stable and future-oriented region, by engaging in a defence treaty that could trigger a new arms race. I would like to draw the attention of the Security Council and the international community to the fact that, in a fragile region, at a very sensitive moment, an agreement on military cooperation is being reached without consulting some of the closest neighbours, among which the Republic of Serbia is not the only one. That violates the spirit of the 1996 Agreement on Subregional Arms Control and of resolution 1244 (1999), according to which the Kosovo Force is the only military force in the territory of Kosovo and Metohija. It is my duty to point out the harmfulness of such moves, which threaten to take us back, at least verbally, to a period that we all want to leave behind, and I want to take this opportunity as well to strongly urge everyone in the region to focus on the future. Council members can count 100 per cent on Serbia to work on maintaining stability, to advance good-neighbourly relations and to work towards creating a region of success, rather than the region of division and grievances that we have seen in previous decades.

Ms. Gërvalla-Schwarz has also asked for the floor to make a further statement. I now give her the floor to make a final statement. Ms. Gërvalla-Schwarz: To be very honest, I listened carefully to Mr. Đurić, and while I could respond point by point, I will not, because we have heard all of that before — the same old narrative, the denial, deflection, imagined victimhood — and I am sure that that does not work anymore. Therefore, I will touch on some points regarding which I believe that there is a need for some clarification. I start with what Ms. Ziadeh said about the pilgrims who were stopped and that some of them were arrested and detained in recent days. Yes, four of them had to stay in prison for 30 days because they are members of Serbian intelligence structures, who were hiding their identity and pretending to be pilgrims, and who were bringing very dangerous objects with them. It is now up to police and the justice system to deal with that matter, and it is no longer a political matter. It was mentioned here that Kosova is not allowing the Patriarch of the Serbian Orthodox Church to visit Kosova. The last time that he wanted to visit Kosova was from 16 to 18 January. We sent the message that, because of a very important day commemorating the victims of Serbian violence, a visit on those two days was not possible. But we demonstrated openness to do so before then or whenever it would be convenient for the Patriarch, because the days requested were not a special religious day; it was just a visit to the Patriarchate. We never received a request after that. There is no problem with visiting Kosova, but we have special days on which it is simply difficult and on which a visit would be understood by many of the victims as a provocation. Hence the need to be careful with the dates that we choose for a visit to Kosova. Yes, we had good elections, and not only on this occasion. We have a tradition of having free, democratic and inclusive elections. Therefore, I am happy that, in the The Banjska attack is so clear because everything is in the video footage captured by drones. The perpetrators are there  — everybody can see them, and they are not no-names. They are known persons, and one of them, Radoičić, is well known in Serbia for being President Vučić’s man for Kosova. He has been the Deputy Vice-President of the Serb List, the political party that is controlled by Belgrade and that is used against the Serbs in Kosova. That is a person who has the opportunity to sit in Belgrade and to have discussions over coffee with the Foreign Minister of Serbia, who is here today. And that has not changed; those people are still free. The three Serbian citizens who were killed during the Banjska attack were among the perpetrators. It is a very natural step, therefore, that the police is taking to resolve a very dangerous situation in which we had paramilitary troops coming from Serbia with weapons for more than 400 people. And when we talk about weapons, we are not talking about guns; we are talking about anti-aircraft and anti-tank and that kind of weapons. Banjska, then, is clear. That is the only reason that nobody says that we did that ourselves with some reasons — I do not know which — to achieve whatever goals. Ibër-Lepenc is different because there were no drones, and there are no images from there. That is why Mr. Đurić is able to say to everyone here that no one knows who did it. That is why we asked for international help with the investigation, and President Vučić told everybody via a television statement that he wants to cooperate and to collaborate  — nothing came of that. We have here persons who are in a position to know that better. There is no answer at all to the questions coming from the international partners who are helping with the investigations. Therefore, we should not be blind. It is dangerous to be blind in these times, when we have a lot of challenges to manage in Europe. Consequently, we should be careful, and we should find the right language so that that kind of attacks, that kind of aggression, does not help anymore. Look what is happening in Bosnia and Herzegovina with Mr. Dodik going from talk to action. And to be very honest, the example of Republika Srpska in Bosnia and Herzegovina reaffirms our concerns about a monoethnic structure with nationalist content and under the control of criminal groups directly financed by the Serbian State. Therefore, we are ready to enter discussions, but it is dangerous to believe  — while we are constantly repeating, together with our partners, that we need to find a way to ensure that the Serbian citizens of Kosova feel that they have a serious and sincere offer from the central Government in Pristina — that we should make the same mistakes we have seen in other parts of our region. We are currently very vigilant, because nobody knows what President Vučić, who is facing real trouble in Serbia, is capable of doing to draw opinion away from what he faces in Belgrade towards neighbouring countries. Therefore, we simply ask the international community to ensure that Serbia complies with what it said on the first day after the attack — not just regarding the institutions in Kosovo — but to collaborate with the international investigators now, not next year, given the fact that the Iber-Lepenc incident happened in November 2024. I stress that not only the municipalities with a minority of Serbs have faced challenges because of the Iber-Lepenc canal attack. It was more than 50 per cent of Kosova. It was an act designed to leave Kosova without water, without electricity, without heating and without Internet for days. That is the truth. In February 2023, we reached an agreement in Brussels with Serbia, under the facilitation of the European Union, and that agreement, among other things, provides a good basis for further discussions and for moving along the path of normalization. What happened was  — and Council members witnessed today what happens I would like to conclude with an invitation. Instead of being influenced by reports that do not show the reality in the country, I invite the Security Council to come to visit Kosova. Members can see for themselves what is happening there. They can visit the Serbs in the four municipalities in the northern part of our country and talk to them. They will tell Council members that they finally feel free of the pressure and the terror of the organized criminal gangs of friends of Mr. Đurić and others. Nothing can replace the personal impressions that members would gain there from seeing and talking openly to people whose main problem is the central Government in Pristina, according to the reports that influence members of the Council. That would change the opinions of Council members regarding what is happening, as is the case of everyone I have met who has been in the four northern municipalities, visiting from our partner States. That is maybe a good alternative to simply believing. The Kosova-Croatia-Albania agreement is an agreement among Kosova and two NATO members. Nobody can pretend that NATO members are threatening anyone these days. That agreement is not designed to go against anybody, and it is not designed to be closed. It is designed to be open for others who want to join as well. Military cooperation these days, as we know, is a very important topic in Europe. We are preparing for the future, just as all our partner allies and friends are preparing. I thank Council members very much for their attention, and I really hope to welcome them soon in Kosova so that they can form their own opinions about what is really happening there.