UN Security Council briefing on the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK)

(15 October 2021)

INDIA STATEMENT

By

Ambassador R. Ravindra

Deputy Permanent Representative

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Mr. President, I would like to join other colleagues in thanking SRSG Zahir Tanin for his briefing on activities of the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo. I welcome His Excellency Mr. Nikola Selakovic, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia.

2. Let me begin by reiterating India’s principled position of supporting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Serbia. We believe that all outstanding issues need to be resolved through peaceful negotiations.

3. In this regard, we take note of the meetings held between Serbia and authorities in Pristina in the recent months under the auspices of the EU. However,  there was no outcome from these meetings. It is important that meetings are held without any preconditions. Both sides need to resume the dialogue in good faith. Both sides need to implement already signed agreements including on the establishment of Association of Serb-majority Municipalities and find common ground to overcome unresolved political, ethnic and other issues. We are  concerned about the recent developments and it is important to de-escalate the tensions through engagement and dialogue.

4. The issue of missing persons is an important humanitarian aspect, and we hope that with support of UNMIK, the authorities will be able to determine the fate of persons who are still missing.  Voluntary and safe return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from other countries in the region is also essential in terms of confidence building measures. UNMIK should continue, together with the other international presences, to encourage the Pristina authorities to address the  concerns of all communities.

5. We have taken note of the activities of the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) during the reporting period. Further, as part of an international cooperation effort, we  have also noted that the KFOR (Kosovo Force) troops from 20 NATO and 8 non-NATO troop contributing countries have continued to effectively fulfill their mandate under UNSCR 1244. Their close tactical cooperation with Police authorities in Pristina and EULEX has contributed to the overall safety and security.

6. In conclusion, Mr. President, I would like to express our appreciation that UNMIK has continued to implement its mandate of promoting security, stability and respect for human rights in the region. We call on all parties to fully cooperate with UNMIK and facilitate its work.

I thank you Mr President.

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