EC calls for de-escalation efforts by Belgrade, Pristina, implementation of agreements

BRUSSELS - In conclusions adopted at a Brussels summit on Friday, the European Council said Belgrade and Pristina must "pursue sustained de-escalation efforts, as well as ensure the holding of new elections in the north of Kosovo as soon as possible, with the active participation of Kosovo Serbs," and added that failure to de-escalate tensions would have consequences.

"The European Council regrets the lack of implementation by both Parties of the Agreement on the path to normalisation and its Implementation Annex as well as other agreements reached in the EU-facilitated dialogue, led by the High Representative and supported by the EU Special Representative. It calls on Kosovo and Serbia to implement them, without delay or preconditions. This includes the establishment of the Association/Community of Serb Majority Municipalities. Normalisation of relations is an essential...