The UN Security Council today discussed the current situation in Kosovo in the presence of the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, and the President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani. In its statement, Switzerland underlined that trust between the two countries must be further strengthened in the interest of both communities. To this end, both parties must focus on moderate rhetoric, strive for further progress in the EU-led normalisation process and follow up on commitments already made with concrete actions.
Through its good offices, Switzerland is committed to building constructive relations between the parties. Since 2015, for example, it has been organising meetings in parallel with the EU-led dialogue to facilitate personal contacts between representatives of Kosovo and Serbian political parties. "Both sides share the responsibility for reducing tensions," Switzerland stressed in the Security Council.
Building mutual trust between the ethnic groups is the key to reducing escalation. An important aspect in this area is dealing with the past. For example, Switzerland has supported Kosovo in setting up a truth and reconciliation commission. It is also helping families to clarify the fate of missing or imprisoned persons.
Switzerland's international cooperation in Kosovo focuses on three thematic areas: democratic governance and peace; sustainable economic development; and climate change, water and health. Gender aspects are also taken into account in all projects.
