Brussels, 08/06/2018 (Agence Europe) – On Friday 8 June, the Council of the European Union formally adopted the new mandate of the EU rule of law mission in Kosovo (EULEX). The Council's decision limits the judicial executive responsibilities of EULEX. "Kosovo will assume responsibility for all transferred investigations, prosecutions and trials", whilst EULEX will shoulder the responsibilities of protecting witnesses, supporting the specialised prosecutor and ensuring the maintenance of security. The mission will keep its management and advisory responsibilities, as well as its responsibility for supporting the dialogue with Serbia, following the new directions presented by EULEX chief, Alexandra Papadopoulou, on 16 May (see EUROPE 12023). The mission's mandate, which was due to come to an end on 30 June, has been extended until 14 June 2020, and the mission will have a budget of €169.8 million (see EUROPE 12029). (CG)