‘Tema’ discusses freedom of movement between Kosovo, Serbia

On Nov. 13, 2014, “Tema” aired a televised debate about the freedom of movement of people between Serbia and Kosovo.

Freedom of movement was one of the first agreements signed in the technical dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia. Despite being signed in 2011, its implementation is not expected to take place until early 2015.

Deputy Prime Minister Edita Tahiri, Kosovo’s lead negotiator in the dialogue with Serbia, and Marko Gjuric head of Serbian Government’s office for Kosovo, both said that the agreement should be put into practice.

Problems that need to be addressed include disparities in border insurance. Kosovo drivers pay around 100 euros to enter Serbia, while drivers from Serbia pay 30 euros to enter Kosovo.

Tahiri told “Tema” that in 2015 fees for citizens of both countries will be lowered.

Gjuric said the current situation hurts citizens, while benefitting insurance companies in Kosovo and Serbia.

Gjuric agreed with Tahiri said that solution should be found so that payments can be made directly at the border point.

Tahiri said that if this cannot be resolved by the dialogue, other measures can be taken to force insurance offices to make it easier for citizens to pass between borders.

Gjuric said the policies for insurance companies can be decided on a state level.