French-German Plan for Normalization of Belgrade-Pristina Relations

Albin Kurti, Miroslav Lajcak, Josep Borrell, Aleksandar Vucic, Brussels, August 18 2022(BETAPHOTO/European Council)

The French-German plan for resolving the dispute between Belgrade and Pristina focuses primarily on the normalization of relations from the perspective of joint future in the European Union, and less on formal recognition and deadlines, the Brussels-based portal EurActiv.com reported on Nov. 9.

One of the key elements of the proposal, which the portal has obtained insight into, is the exchange of permanent missions, which would resemble embassies, although at a lower level. The portal reported that it was unclear if possible earlier versions of the plan existed or, if so, what they entailed, and conveyed the content of the present version:

Article 1

Kosovo and Serbia shall develop normal, good neighborly relations with each other based on equal rights.

Article 2

Kosovo and Serbia will be guided by their mutual aspirations to EU membership.

Article 3

In conformity with the SAA [Stabilization and Association Agreements] signed by both parties, Kosovo and Serbia shall settle any disputes between then exclusively by peaceful means and refrain from the threat or use of force.

They reaffirm the inviolability now and in the future of the frontier/boundary existing between them and undertake fully to respect each other’s territorial integrity.

Article 4

Kosovo and Serbia proceed on the assumption that neither of the two parties can represent the other in the international sphere nor act on its behalf.

Article 5

Kosovo and Serbia shall promote peaceful relations in the Western Balkans and contribute to the regional security and cooperation in Europe.

Article 6

Kosovo and Serbia proceed on the mutual respect of each party’s jurisdiction.

Article 7

Kosovo and Serbia declare their readiness to regulate practical and an questions in the process of the normalization of their relations. They shall conclude agreements with the view to developing and promoting on the basis of the present Treaty and for their mutual benefit cooperation in the fields of economics, science and technology, transport, judicial relations, posts and telecommunications, health, culture, sport, environmental protection, and in other fields. The details have been agreed in the Supplementary Protocol.

Article 8

Kosovo and Serbia shall exchange Permanent Missions. They shall be established at the respective Government’s seat.

Practical questions relating to the establishment of the Missions shall be dealt with separately.

Article 9

Kosovo and Serbia agree that the present Treaty shall not affect the bilateral and multilateral international treaties and agreements already concluded by them or relating to them.