Serbia will have to effectively recognize Kosovo’s independence if EU’s proposed deal is accepted Fox News

The agreement stipulates that Belgrade and Pristina will ensure mutual recognition of passports, diplomas, license plates and customs stamps. At the same time, the Serbs are required to stop hindering Pristina on the way to joining various international organizations: the document stipulates that Serbia will no longer represent the interests of Kosovo. In addition, Belgrade and Pristina will be required to exchange diplomatic missions. Accordingly, the listed points will mean the effective diplomatic recognition of Kosovo by Serbia, if Belgrade decides to sign this agreement.The document contains provisions on the need for multifaceted cooperation between the conflicting parties in a wide range of fields, including economy, education, religion, culture and sports. Pristina’s commitment to creating a Community of Serbian Municipalities, which Kosovars ignored in every possible way for almost 10 years, was also recorded once again. It also proclaims the principle of exclusively peaceful settlement of bilateral disputes, without recourse to violence.”While this agreement represents an important step towards the normalization of relations, the two parties will continue to work with renewed impetus through the EU-brokered dialogue, which should lead to a legally binding agreement on an overall normalization of relations.” , indicates the document. It is clear from this paragraph that the agreement proposed by the EU is not yet the final point on the Kosovo problem. This is also evidenced by the full title of this document – “Agreement on the path to normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia”.Speaking to reporters, EU diplomat Josep Borrell said Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovar Prime Minister Albin Kurti had tentatively approved an EU-proposed deal, also known as the Franco-German plan. However, Borrell said the agreement will come into force only after Belgrade and Pristina agree on the procedure for its implementation. To that end, the parties will hold additional negotiations in mid-March.