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The European Union has not yet managed to finalize the formal appointment of a new ambassador to Kosovo, temporarily leaving one of the key diplomatic posts in the region without a permanent head. Diplomatic sources in Brussels have told the Kosovo media outlet 'Koha' that the process could take several weeks or even months.
According to diplomatic sources, a senior Italian diplomat has been unofficially selected to head the EU Office in Pristina, succeeding Estonian Aivo Orav, who has already taken up his post as EU ambassador in Ankara. However, his appointment has not been finalized and the reasons remain unclear.
The final decision lies with the EU's high representative for foreign policy, Kaja Kallas, and must then be approved by member states. Several diplomats have admitted they have no clear explanation for the delay.
The EU Office in Kosovo, along with the one in Sarajevo, has a special status as its head also holds the role of EU Special Representative. These positions are usually reserved for countries considered more sensitive from a political and security perspective.
Until the new ambassador is appointed, the office in Pristina will be headed by Eva Palatova in the capacity of acting ambassador.
Some diplomats have cited the possibility of a lack of geographical balance in the EU's diplomatic representation in the Western Balkans as an informal obstacle. Currently, several key posts in the region and in Brussels are held by Italian diplomats. However, this is not considered a formal reason and there are also views that Italy has simply shown greater interest in the region compared to other member states.
EU diplomats say the lack of an appointed ambassador could affect the pace of relations between Kosovo and the European Union. There is also criticism that Kosovo has been neglected in relation to other countries in the region, citing the lack of visits by senior EU officials.
On the other hand, the EU has previously argued that the political situation in Kosovo and the prolonged electoral phases have affected the level of engagement.
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