KFOR after inspections at the Ibri bridge: We will not hesitate to deal with any development that may affect stability

2024-08-06 17:35:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

KFOR after inspections at the Ibri bridge: We will not hesitate to deal with any

American KFOR vehicles were seen on Tuesday at the main bridge over the Iber, although the Italian carabinieri have a permanent presence there.

The NATO mission in Kosovo (KFOR) reiterated on Tuesday that any decision on the opening of the main bridge over the Iber River should be taken within the dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade, mediated by the European Union.

According to the statement, KFOR will not hesitate to address any development that may have an impact on regional security and stability, in accordance with the mandate of the United Nations.

KFOR's reaction comes after a visit by Kosovo officials to that part, who insist that the bridge over the Iber will be opened.

The Minister of Interior of Kosovo, Xhelal Sveçla, said during his visit to North Mitrovica that "there is no reason why the bridge should not be opened".

"Now, when it will be opened is a matter of experts' assessment", he said.

The Italian Carabinieri of KFOR have a permanent presence on the Ibri bridge and carry out patrols in the area. The bridge is also monitored by members of the Kosovo Police.

The main bridge over the river Ibër, which divides Mitrovica into two municipalities. (Photo: Reuters)

The government of Kosovo believes that freedom of movement should be ensured throughout the territory, but Serbia considers the opening of the bridge as a "provocation".

The QUINT countries (the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Italy) have announced days ago that they do not support the opening of the bridge at this time.

Despite this, the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, has insisted that the bridge should be opened and that its opening is not against anyone.

"It is at the service of all and against no one. Freedom of movement and the rule of law do not endanger peace and security, on the contrary."

The government has announced that it will continue discussions and consultations on the plan to open the bridge.

"The plan foresees tests for the infrastructural stability of the bridge, assessment of risk and risks from natural disasters, visual revitalization of the bridge with access to the bridge for all, discussions with citizens and interest groups as well as a comprehensive information campaign on the benefits and goals of the opening of the bridge".

Albanians in South Mitrovica and Serbs in North Mitrovica - with whom Radio Free Europe spoke earlier - are divided on whether the bridge should be opened.

For the Albanians, the opening of the bridge would be a "wise thing", while for the Serbs it would be a decision that increases tensions./REL