Kosovo Gets Two Messages

About the good news document, the EC’s Director for the Western Balkans, Pierre Mirel, said, “We propose to start a visa dialogue with Kosovo with the perspective of visa liberalization when the conditions will be fulfilled.”      

That news came a day later than the criticisms, in an annual report on progress toward joining the EU. That report describes Kosovo’s borders as “porous” and calls money laundering “an issue of serious concern.” While the report notes some progress in the fight against drug trafficking, including an increase in seizures and arrests, it states that Kosovo lacks a “crime reduction strategy.”

“Kosovo needs to considerably step up its efforts. Kosovo remains a source and place of transit for organized crime activities,” the report states.

The report also cites the “limited progress” made in Kosovo’s anti-corruption efforts, owing to an inadequate legal framework and poor cooperation between law enforcement agencies.

“Corruption remains prevalent in many areas in Kosovo and continues to be a very serious concern,” the report states.

Despite the criticisms, Kosovo’s Prime Minister Hashim Thaci said he welcomes the report, and that it will establish a path for Kosovo toward the EU. And he used the occasion to take a swipe at Serbia, from which Kosovo claimed its independence.

“I am glad.” Thaci said, “that the report on the Kosovo government’s progress shows this dissatisfaction, which we have presented to international officials, which confirms the destructive role of Belgrade."