EU, Kosovo Leaders Hail Start of Stability Deal

EU and Kosovo leaders hailed the entry into force of Kosovo's landmark Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the European Union on 1 April, calling it a milestone in the relationship between the Balkan country and the 28-member EU family.

"This agreement aims to support Kosovo's economic transition and reinforce Kosovo's integration into the common market of the European Union," Prime Minister Isa Mustafa said.

From 1 April, every barrier in terms of trade with the EU for Kosovo companies had been removed, the Prime Minister noted.

"Kosovo companies from today can export their product services at very low costs compared with the costs that have operated so far, and without administrative barriers," Mustafa explained.

In a press release, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said that the agreement opened a new phase in the EU-Kosovo relationship and represented an important contribution to peace, stability and prosperity in Kosovo and the region at large. "I am looking forward to its implementation," Mogherini said.

EU Enlargement Commissioner Johannes Hahn welcomed the agreement as a milestone in the EU-Kosovo relationship. "It will help keep Kosovo on the path of reform and will create trade and investment opportunities," Hahn said.

"I am very much looking forward to my next visit to Pristina to mark this important moment and to explain the benefits it can bring in terms of growth and employment to Kosovo businesses, investors and the general public," Hahn added.

The President of the Kosovo Chamber of Commerce, Safet Gerxhaliu, said it was an opportunity for Kosovo to compete in a market of 500 million consumers and create a new partnership with the 28 member states of the European family.

The SAA...