EU urges Kosovo to end political deadlock

The European Union has urged Kosovo to build stable institutions as the country heads into its third parliamentary election in 18 months.

The early vote on Sunday follows the failure of political parties to agree on a new president.

Albin Kurti’s Vetëvendosje party won 51.1% in the last election in December, but did not secure a deal with other parties on a presidential candidate.

Parliament was dissolved in April.

European Council President António Costa said this week that the EU could support Kosovo, but could not do its work for it.

More than 900 candidates are running for 120 seats, including 20 reserved for minorities.