Congresswoman Tenney's Statement on Ongoing Tensions Between Serbia and Kosovo

Utica, NY – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22) today released the following statement regarding ongoing tensions between Serbia and Kosovo.

"Heightened tensions developing in the Western Balkans are deeply concerning. It is critical that the governments of Serbia and Kosovo refrain from rhetoric and actions that may inflame tensions further. We welcome efforts by the U.S. Department of State and the European Union to calm tensions and help restore dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo. In particular, we welcome successful efforts by the U.S. Ambassador to Kosovo to delay the unilateral move by the government in Pristina to impose new administrative restrictions on the Serbian population. Following the failed August 18 meeting convened by the European Union, we urge that no further unilateral moves be taken and that the delay be extended until Serbia and Kosovo return to the negotiating table and a final agreement is achieved.

"We also call for the full protection of human and political rights of all minorities in Kosovo, especially the Serbian civilian minority population, in accordance with international law and our shared Western democratic values. For years, there has been an EU-facilitated dialogue, with the strong engagement of the United States, through which both sides should continue to engage constructively. This should be the forum for parties to resolve disputes peacefully. The Biden Administration should also ensure that America continues to engage constructively and proactively in the region to advance peace between all parties, building on the successes of the previous Administration.

"As Russia continues to wage an unprovoked and bloody war in Ukraine, we should remain united in firm opposition to Putin’s senseless violence and continue to stand together to promote regional stability. Serbia and Kosovo should be partners in this undertaking, and it is time for both sides to return to the negotiating table and achieve progress through diplomacy, in a manner that embraces our shared vision of a stable, secure, and prosperous Western Balkans region."

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