Brussels, 18/12/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 17 December, the Council called on Kosovo to lay emphasis on the implementation of reforms in order to fulfil the obligations under the stabilisation and association agreement currently being negotiated. In its conclusions, it calls on Pristina to reform its legal framework ahead of the general elections of next year. “Particular attention must be paid to tackling organised crime and corruption, to continuing the reforms of the public and judicial administration systems, to ensuring the protection of human rights, fundamental rights and minorities' rights and tackling commercial issues”, the ministers add. They go on to call for efforts to be made in economic reforms.
The Council notes the opening of negotiations for the stabilisation and association agreement and the Commission's intention to conclude these in 2014, “without prejudice to the position of the member states on the status”. It will continue closely to follow the continued commitment of Kosovo in the normalisation of relations with Serbia. The ministers also call on Kosovo to work effectively with Eulex. (CG/transl.fl)