Tánaiste on behalf of Irish EU Presidency welcomes breakthrough in Serbia–Kosovo negotiations

I warmly welcome the positive outcome of the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue today.

As we have learned from our own peace process it is at time necessary to take risks for peace. I commend the political courage and consistent efforts shown by both Prime Minister Dačić and Prime Minister Thaci. I would also like to thank the High Representative for her very active engagement as facilitator of the process.

With this agreement Serbia and Kosovo have gone a long way to fulfilling the conditions for progress on their respective European paths which the Council set for them back in December.

I look forward to hearing further details from High Representative Ashton and Commissioner Füle and considering their reports at the General Affairs Council which I will chair in Luxembourg on Monday.

But I believe this is an important step forward and has the potential, if fully implemented, to close a difficult period in their shared history and to herald a new dawn for all of their citizens.

I very much hope that this important opportunity to build a new and more prosperous future will not only be welcomed but will be strongly supported in Serbia and in Kosovo and in the broader region and beyond.