Pakistan informed the UN Security Council that unresolved issues with Serbia and persistent inter-communal tensions continue to jeopardize regional stability. Usman Jadoon expressed concern regarding statements about the diversion of shared hydro resources.
The representative stated, "We unequivocally condemn all actions directed against any people on the basis of their faith, belief or ethnicity, and hope that relevant authorities would take decisive action against such activities." Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia in February 2008, a move that Serbia has not recognized.
The European Union has been facilitating dialogue between the two parties to address these challenges. Jadoon said, "We firmly believe that sustained and meaningful participation in the EU-facilitated dialogue, with earnest implementation of all agreements and understandings reached between the authorities in Belgrade and Pristina remains the only viable path for overcoming challenges, and to ensure lasting peace, and stability in the region."
Peter Due noted that the region saw increased tensions over the past six months. Political uncertainty and heightened rhetoric followed peaceful elections in June.
Trust has eroded due to property disputes, allegations of police ill-treatment, and the stalled reintegration of Kosovo Serb judicial personnel. Former President Hashim Thaci and three other former Kosovo Liberation Army leaders were convicted of war crimes.
Due expressed concern over legislative amendments that limit the powers of the Specialist Chambers. Due stated that judicial independence "must be respected."
