Gradually, Kosovo is more known in European Union (EU). Most recently, with the start of the new year, the agreement reached with the European Parliament last April provided for exemptions from: short term visas Kosovo citizens who want to travel Schengen area, free movement zone It includes 23 community countries, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
The new measure, which was implemented after the activation of the new European travel information and permit system, allows Kosovars to enter and stay in the country for a certain period of time. maximum 90 days (renewable after six months). A progress Pristina has been working towards since its founding self-declared independence In 2008 (but also left Serbia for good), almost 16 years ago.
This puts an end Kosovo anomalysubmitted its candidacy to join the EU last year, but also only from the Western Balkans who do not enjoy this freedom Regarding the countries of the Schengen area. Under these circumstances, the Prime Minister of Kosovo Albin KurtiHe went to Pristina airport this Monday to meet one of the first groups of passengers heading to Vienna.
dispute with Spain
On the other hand, the endless thing argument with Spain, a country that did not directly oppose the measure in question but continued a mixed stance It’s about how you will manage the decision made. Last April, European Commission Justice spokesman Christian Wigand announced that Spain was the only country opposing the recognition of “Kosovo travel documents”. “Kosovo citizens will be able to travel freely with their visas to all Schengen countries except one,” he added. “Spain is terrible with this“Again” was the comment of journalist Una Hajdari, one of many Internet users who have criticized the Spanish attitude on the networks in recent days.
innovation yes celebrated By Spanish Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign and Security Policy. Borrell said on his personal account on his old Twitter account he wrote.
Relaxation with Serbia
Even more enthusiastic Thijs ReutenA Dutch MP from the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats welcomed the measure, stating: “Kosovo This is Europe“. “Finally! After years of completely unnecessary delays, as of today visa exemption for travel to the EU applies to all Kosovo citizens. Next step: processing the application for candidate status,” Reuten said.
The decision also unexpectedly Serbia decided just a week ago to give permission This Vehicles with Kosovo license plates By entering the country at a time when Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić was facing a new wave of citizen protests against him, he put an end to a crisis that had worsened over the past two years.