Djuric: Solution defined with Brussels, Pristina has averted worst-case scenario for Serbs

BELGRADE - Serbian FM Marko Djuric said on Monday a solution defined by Brussels, Belgrade and Pristina had averted the worst-case scenario for Serbs in Kosovo-Metohija and all those living and working in the province, and noted that the interests of Serbs had been safeguarded in very difficult circumstances.

"I welcome this agreement and congratulate the Serbian negotiators on their efforts and the result achieved," Djuric said in a comment on a solution reached for implementation of Pristina's law on foreigners.

Caring for the people remains the main priority of the policy of the president and the Government of Serbia, a statement released by the Serbian MFA quoted Djuric as saying.

He welcomed engagement by representatives of the EU, the USA and the wider international community aimed at solving the problems caused by unilateral and uncoordinated actions by the Albin Kurti-led authorities in Pristina.

Djuric noted that implementation of other agreements from the EU-facilitated dialogue with Pristina, in particular, implementation of a signed and ratified agreement on establishment of a Community of Serb Municipalities, did not merely represent a right of the Serbs but was also a necessary step to ensure better inter-ethnic and institutional relations in Kosovo-Metohija in the future that would be less dependent on anyone's self-will.

The provisional institutions in Pristina began enforcing their laws on foreigners and vehicles on Sunday.

Serbs working and studying in Kosovo-Metohija will be issued with residence permits for an initial period of one year, while Serbs living in the province will have three months to obtain documents issued by Pristina.