Kosovo-Serbia Dialogue in Brussels: New round of talks to address dinar issue

May 15, 2024 — Kosovo and Serbia will hold a fresh round of talks on May 15th in Brussels, aiming to resolve the contentious issue surrounding the use of the Serbian dinar in Kosovo. This latest round of talks follows a series of inconclusive meetings between the two nations' chief negotiators.

The backdrop to these discussions is the recent implementation of a new regulation by the Central Bank of Kosovo, which designates the euro as the sole currency for transactions within the territory.

Despite several previous attempts, consensus on a compromise solution regarding the dinar issue has remained elusive. However, there is renewed hope that the upcoming dialogue will yield practical results, as emphasized by EU mediators and spokespersons.

The implications of this dialogue extend beyond currency matters. It touches upon the broader normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, a crucial step towards stability and cooperation in the region. The EU's active role in facilitating these discussions reflects its commitment to fostering peace and prosperity in the Western Balkans.

One significant aspect likely to be addressed in the talks is the issue of official visits between the two nations. Recent refusals of such visits have raised concerns and may be discussed alongside the primary agenda.