Premier and interim Foreign Minister Mario Monti hails Belgrade-Pristina accord

Premier and interim Foreign Minister Mario Monti expressed his “deep satisfaction” today with the agreement reached in Brussels between Belgrade and Pristina.
“This is an historic accord”, Monti asserted, recalling that “in our frequent contacts with the authorities of Belgrade and Pristina, Italy has always encouraged both parties to take advantage of this excellent window of opportunity, consistent with the Balkans’ lasting commitment to European integration and in full harmony with their partner countries”.
Also expressing his “strong appreciation for the personal dedication of High Representative Catherine Ashton, without which this fundamental outcome would not have been possible”, Monti now urged Belgrade and Pristina to “fully and concretely implement the agreement and reap the rewards, beginning with European integration, that confirm the fulfillment of the conditions set by the Council for the opening of negotiations for Serbia’s accession and the launch of negotiations on a stability and association agreement with Kosovo”.
“Italy”, Monti concluded, “will continue to ensure its convinced support for the European prospects of Serbia and Kosovo, certain that a future of lasting stability and reconciliation lies for both nations, as well as for the entire region, in that European integration process that, thanks to today’s agreement, has taken a major step forward”.