The leaders of Serbia and Kosovo reached a bilateral agreement aimed at normalizing their relations after a long, intensive dialogue mediated by the European Union. A marathon of talks stretched across hours as representatives pursued a path toward broader stability in the Western Balkans.
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell announced that both sides had agreed to implement the annex that outlines the steps for normalizing ties. He stressed that the agreement marks a significant milestone in the broader effort to stabilize the relationship between Pristina and Belgrade and to advance both countries on their paths toward European Union membership.
Borrell noted that the dialogue will remain demanding and lengthy, but he highlighted the commitment of both parties to proceed in good faith. He underscored that Kosovo would immediately start implementing Article 7, which concerns the establishment of a mechanism to support the Kosovo Serb population. He added that action would be taken without delay, reflecting a shared sense of urgency.
In parallel, Pristina agreed to immediately finalize the notification process regarding missing persons, a point both sides have treated as non-negotiable. Borrell indicated that several constructive proposals were discussed during the signing and in substance, signaling flexibility and a willingness to move forward within a tough framework.
Borrell emphasized that the dialogue’s value extends beyond the two states. He argued that the agreement offers real gains for both sides, contributing to stability and peace in the Western Balkans. He described the current geopolitical context as one that calls for practical tools to uphold peace, resilience, and regional stability.
The meeting in Ohrid, North Macedonia, brought together Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti, highlighting the regional focus of the talks and the EU’s role in facilitating progress. The gathering was presented as part of a broader effort to solidify relations and advance lasting solutions to longstanding tensions.
Vucic didn’t sign anything new
Vucic reiterated that, despite the agreement, no new institutions or formal arrangements for minority representation in northern Kosovo were created at this stage. He described the process as constructive and noted that discussions included topics such as missing persons and donor conferences. He indicated that the plan should be broadened with additional proposals as progress continues.
The Serbian leader explained that the Council of Europe would monitor and assess how the agreement is implemented, while stressing that negotiations would resume on the upcoming Monday to share further details with the public. He stated that representatives of parliamentary groups would be engaged to ensure transparent and inclusive discussion about the steps ahead. He warned that there is serious work ahead in the months to come.
Belgrade and Pristina had spent years negotiating in Brussels with limited results and a challenging track record of implementing past commitments. The evolving framework here is viewed as a potential turning point that could help prevent renewed conflict and promote stability after a history marked by tension and separation in the 1990s. Observers caution that much depends on delivering measurable progress and maintaining trust on the ground. [citation needed]