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Congresswoman Tenney Introduces the BACKING the 2013 Brussels Agreement Act

December 19, 2023

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) introduced the Backing the Agreed-upon Compromises by Kosovo Imposed by the Negotiated Guarantees of the 2013 Brussels Agreement or the BACKING the 2013 Brussels Agreement Act. 
 
In 2013, the European Union helped broker the 2013 Brussels Agreement between Serbia and Kosovo to alleviate tensions between the two countries. Kosovo has failed to uphold many of its key commitments under the agreement, such as the formation of an Association of Serb-majority Municipalities and a unified police force, which have remained unfulfilled. Additionally, Kosovo has denied equal rights to Kosovo Serbs. Kosovo’s failure to fulfill this agreement violates international norms and creates tension and instability in the Balkans.
 
This bill would prohibit any further United States assistance to Kosovo until certain conditions outlined in the 2013 Brussels Agreement are implemented. 
 
"As we witness the ongoing oppression and discrimination against Kosovo Serbs due to the failure to implement key provisions of the 2013 Brussels Agreement, it is imperative that the United States takes a stand for democracy, peace, and stability in the region,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “The BACKING the 2013 Brussels Agreement Act sends the clear message that our assistance should align with the principles of the 2013 agreement, and we stand firmly against actions that undermine the rights and well-being of Kosovo Serbs. This legislation reflects our commitment to fostering peace and holding Prime Minister Albin Kurti and the Kosovan Government accountable.”


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