EU High Representative for Foreign Policy and Security Josep Borrell has recommended the removal of sanctions against Kosovo, broadcaster RTK reported on June 19.

This suggestion stems from Kosovo's recent progress in meeting the European Union's requirements outlined in its statement of June 3, 2023. The punitive measures against Pristina were imposed last June as Brussels assessed that Kosovo had not taken necessary steps to ease tensions in its northern region, predominantly inhabited by ethnic Serbs.

Borrell formally submitted his report to EU member states on June 18, with discussions among EU ambassadors scheduled for June 19 to deliberate on its contents.

The decision on whether to lift the measures will hinge on these deliberations. There is also possibility that the issue may be included on the agenda for the upcoming meeting of EU foreign ministers on June 24 in Luxembourg.

The potential lifting of sanctions is viewed by Borrell as a crucial political gesture that could foster a conducive environment for dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade. However, Borrell reportedly underscored in his report the importance for Kosovo to exercise restraint and avoid unilateral actions moving forward.

As reported by RTK, deputy prime minister of Kosovo and chief negotiator in the dialogue with Serbia, Besnik Bislimi, announced that apart from a few countries advocating for a gradual lifting, there is widespread support for removing sanctions. He criticised the sanctions as unjust from the outset and complained that similar measures had not been used against Serbia.

"We anticipate that no objections will arise against the decision to lift sanctions." Bislimi said.