According to Radio Free Europe, the European Union’s Special Envoy for the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, Miroslav Lajčák, praised President Vjosa Osmani’s recommendations on implementing the normalization agreement between Kosovo and Serbia. Lajčák met Osmani in New York during the United Nations General Assembly to discuss the current state of the dialogue.

Why is this relevant: This recognition of Osmani’s input comes amid growing perceptions of a divide between her and Prime Minister Albin Kurti. Osmani’s more constructive and diplomatic approach contrasts with Kurti’s increasingly isolated stance.

Context: The Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, ongoing since 2011, is mediated by the EU and supported by the U.S. Kosovo and Serbia reached the Basic Agreement on normalization in Brussels and an Implementation Annex in Ohrid in early 2023, yet the terms remain unfulfilled. Kosovo insists on signing the agreement, while Serbia expresses doubts about full implementation. Lajčák’s praise of Osmani’s input underscores her growing alignment with international partners, distinguishing her from Kurti’s confrontational style. The Kosovo government under Kurti has frequently accused Lajčák of bias toward Serbia, a position that differs from Osmani’s more engaged and pragmatic tone.

Broader Context: There is growing frustration with Kurti and his handling of the dialogue among Kosovo’s allies, including the EU and U.S. Western officials have expressed disappointment with Kurti’s reluctance to compromise, seeing it as a barrier to progress. Osmani’s more constructive approach also influences Kosovo’s regional relationships, including those with Albania and Prime Minister Edi Rama.