Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Howell of Guildford (Conservative) on Tuesday, 13 March 2012.

Serbia and Kosovo

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what recent discussions they have had with European Union states that do not recognise Kosovo regarding the recent agreements reached between Serbia and Kosovo.

Answer: The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, my right honourable friend the Member for Richmond (Yorks) (Mr Hague) and the Minister for Europe, my right honourable friend the Member for Aylesbury (Mr Lidington) discussed the recent agreements between Kosovo and Serbia with the five non-recognising European Union states at the 27 February Foreign Affairs Council and 28 February General Affairs Council respectively. As the Foreign Secretary said in a statement on 24 February, the agreements on regional co-operation and implementation of integrated management of the Kosovo/Serbia border are crucial for ensuring that both Kosovo and Serbia continue their progress towards future membership of the European Union. A copy of the statement can be found here: http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/news/latest-news/?view=News&id=735001182. We urge both Kosovo and Serbia to remain constructively engaged in the European Union facilitated dialogue. Their continued commitment will promote co-operation, improve the lives of their citizens and ensure both countries remain firmly on the path towards a more stable and prosperous future.

Secondary information