EU urges quick enactment of crucial Serbia-Kosovo deal

The European Union on Monday urged the "swift implementation" of a breakthrough Serbia-Kosovo deal to resolve practical problems for citizens caused by Belgrade's refusal to recognise Pristina's independence. EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, speaking after talks in Brussels with Kosovo prime minister Hashin Thaci, welcomed the accords sealed Saturday between the two, saying they "bring both sides closer to the European Union". The agreements, the first deals struck by the two since Kosovo declared independence three years ago, "are good for both sides. They do not require either to give away anything, rather both sides gain a lot," Ashton said. "I'm looking forward to the swift implementation of these agreements," she added. The accords dealing with nuts-and-bolts problems affecting the daily lives of citizens notably will allow Kosovars for the first time to cross into Serbia using Kosovo ID papers, resolve problems caused by Serbia holding civil registries from Kosovo, and lead to mutual recognition of education diplomas. A new round to broach other practical problems, including customs and telecommunications, is set for the end of July. Thaci in a brief statement said Kosovo aimed to continue democratic reforms towards rule of law and was committed to "good cooperations with all our neighbours, including Serbia". "Kosovo and Serbia have a European perspective together," he said. "Gradually we have commenced to establish more normal neighbourly relations." "The dark chapter of the region will be concluded with the integration of the whole region into the European Union."