Islamabad (TDI): Pakistan has called for a sustained dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia, urging both sides to fully implement their 2013 and 2023 agreements to ensure lasting peace and stability in the Southeast European region.
Ambassador Usman Jadoon, acting permanent representative of Pakistan to the United Nations, made these remarks during a debate on the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) at the UN Security Council on Tuesday.
Ambassador Jadoon stressed that both Kosovo and Serbia must commit sincerely to the political process and avoid unilateral actions that could escalate tensions. “We hope that both sides will sincerely commit to the political process and refrain from unilateral actions that escalate tensions,” he said, emphasizing the need for mutual dialogue to prevent further destabilization in the region.
Pakistan’s envoy expressed concern over the rising divisive rhetoric, hate speech, and incidents of religious intolerance, which have contributed to communal tensions, particularly between Serbs and Albanians. He called on both sides to make concerted efforts to curb these negative trends, which continue to hinder efforts for peaceful coexistence.
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Ambassador Jadoon also recognized the positive role played by UNMIK in promoting dialogue and harmony among the various communities in Kosovo.
Ambassador Jadoon highlighted Pakistan’s concern over the lack of tangible progress in holding accountable those responsible for violent incidents like the Iber-Lepenc canal and the Banjske attack of 2023. He urged both Kosovo and Serbia to cooperate in bringing the perpetrators to justice, a crucial step toward ensuring accountability and trust-building in the region.
Pakistan, which maintains friendly relations with both Kosovo and Serbia, reiterated its steadfast support for a stable and prosperous Balkans. “This can only be achieved through a commitment to peaceful co-existence, mutual respect, recognizing sensitivities, and abiding by previous agreements,” Ambassador Jadoon added.
The UN’s top official in Kosovo, Milbert Dongjoon Shin, also briefed the UN Security Council on the growing tensions and political deadlock in the region. He emphasized the importance of avoiding measures that could further erode trust between Belgrade and Pristina. Shin reiterated that the normalization of relations and accountability for past violence remained essential for long-term peace.
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Shin welcomed the peaceful conduct of local elections in Kosovo on October 12, noting that the elections were held in an inclusive atmosphere, with legal guarantees of electoral integrity. The formation of local governments was described as essential to ensure that the voices of the people are translated into actions through municipal leadership.
Pakistan’s call for continued dialogue and implementation of past agreements reflects its commitment to supporting regional peace and stability, not only in Kosovo and Serbia but throughout the Balkans.
