High level conference on the consequences of the potential status-quo in Kosovo-Serbia dialogue

Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS) together with New Social Initiative (NSI), and supported by the Canadian Embassy to Croatia and Kosovo, organized today a high-level conference to discuss the consequences from a potential persistence of the status-quo in the dialogue for normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia. The conference was opened by H. E. Mr. Alan Bowman, Ambassador of Canada to Croatia and Kosovo, where he noted the importance for the dialogue to succeed. Following the opening remarks, head of research at the KCSS, Dr Ramadan Ilazi, presented some of the findings from an informal discussion on consequences of the status-quo organized early in March of this year with a group of civil society representatives, including from Serbia, as well as policymakers. He highlighted political and economic ramifications from the status-quo, including for implementation of the Common Regional Market. After the presentation, the conference continued with interventions by senior representatives of political parties: Mrs. Fitore Pacolli-Dalipi from VV, Mrs. Shqipe Mjekiqi from LDK, and Mr. Bernard Nikaj from PDK, and the concluding the remarks from Mrs. Milica Andrić Rakić of the NGO-NSI, and Mr. Agon Maliqi, member of the board of the KCSS.  Discussion showed that the EU-facilitated dialogue for normalization of relations is vital to succeed for both countries, and for their common goal of membership in the European Union (EU).  Discussions showed that the status-quo has serious consequences for both countries, and it can be abused for more serious escalation of the situation, although it is highly unlikely.  The discussion showed that status-quo can deteriorate inter-ethnic relations and the work that civil society is doing is very important for promoting greater understanding between communities.