Pakistan Calls for Sustained Dialogue and Mutual Respect to Ensure Lasting Peace in the Balkans
NEW YORK: Pakistan has emphasized the importance of **continued dialogue and mutual respect** to achieve lasting peace and stability in the Balkans.
Speaking at a **United Nations Security Council (UNSC)** meeting on the **UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK)**, Pakistan’s **Acting Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Usman Jadoon**, reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Balkan region.
He stressed that **durable peace can only be achieved through the sincere and full implementation of the 2013 Brussels Agreement and the 2023 Ohrid Agreement**.
Ambassador Jadoon praised the **European Union’s efforts** to promote dialogue between **Belgrade and Pristina**, urging both parties to **avoid unilateral actions** that could escalate tensions.
Expressing concern over **extremist rhetoric, hate speech, and incidents of religious intolerance**, he called on all sides to **curb negative trends and promote inter-communal harmony**.
Jadoon commended **UNMIK’s efforts** to foster dialogue, peace, and coexistence among Kosovo’s diverse communities. He also underlined the **importance of accountability**, expressing regret that **no substantial progress has been made in bringing the perpetrators of the 2023 Ibër-Lepenc canal and Banjskë attacks to justice**, urging both parties to cooperate sincerely in this regard.
Welcoming the **peaceful conduct of local elections** and the **inaugural session of Kosovo’s Constituent Assembly**, he voiced hope that the political process would soon lead to the formation of a **representative government**.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s **friendly relations with both Kosovo and Serbia**, Ambassador Jadoon concluded that **peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, empathy, and sincere adherence to agreed commitments** are essential for a stable and prosperous Balkans. He reiterated that **Pakistan remains a steadfast supporter of peace, dialogue, and cooperation in the region.**
