Let me begin by thanking the Special Representative for the work
she and her team are doing to promote stability and respect for
human rights in Kosovo.
The UK is a long-standing supporter of Kosovo's sovereignty and
independence. We remain committed to supporting an inclusive,
diverse and multi-ethnic democracy in Kosovo.
We welcome, for example, Kosovo's efforts to recruit police
officers from non-majority communities, and its commitment to
tackling Conflict Related Sexual Violence including through its
leadership of the International Forum for Women, Peace and
Security.
Yet for many years the absence of a normal relationship between
Kosovo and Serbia has negatively impacted the lives of
individuals living in both countries and impacted regional
stability.
In recent weeks we've seen positive steps towards greater
cooperation. This includes easing restrictions on Serbian imports
into Kosovo, and the agreement securing Kosovo representation in
the Central European Free Trade Agreement.
We are, however, concerned that progress in the EU-facilitated
dialogue has been faltering. We call upon both parties to
reaffirm their commitment to the EU-facilitated dialogue and we
echo the Secretary-General's call for greater participation of
women in the process.
It is important that both sides demonstrate the political will
and the courage to fully implement existing agreements under the
dialogue, including the establishment of an Association of
Serb-Majority Municipalities.
At the same time, it is important for all sides to avoid actions
which could jeopardise such progress. We urge Kosovo to carefully
consider the impact of its decisions on all its citizens
including those from non-majority communities and to work with
its partners.
And we urge Serbia to play its part in supporting efforts to
ensure justice and accountability for the perpetrators of last
year's shocking attack in Banjska and to play a constructive role
in reducing tensions and promoting positive relations in the
region.
I would like to end by expressing the UK's gratitude to the
Special Representative and all Mission staff who have contributed
to UNMIK's work over the last 25 years.
Promoting dialogue and trust-building between Kosovo's
communities is and remains vital.
However, it has been over sixteen years since Kosovo's
independence and the situation is unrecognisable from 1999. It is
therefore time for this Council to review UNMIK's role to reflect
conditions on the ground.
