(MENAFN) Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker issued a direct call on Wednesday for Serbia to resume talks with Kosovo, emphasizing that the normalization of relations between the two nations is the only viable path forward.

Speaking at a press conference in Belgrade alongside Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Stocker reiterated Austria’s commitment to supporting Serbia’s European Union aspirations. However, he pointed out that Serbia must make significant progress in several key areas before EU membership becomes a reality.

Stocker stressed that Serbia must first achieve gradual integration in the transport and energy sectors before pursuing full EU membership. He also highlighted that adhering to the rule of law, ensuring media freedom, and safeguarding judicial independence are core values of the European Union.

In a firm statement, Stocker underscored the importance of dialogue in resolving the tensions between Belgrade and Pristina. "We welcome any effort that will bring the actors in the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue Process back to the table. There is no alternative to the dialogue process," he said.

For his part, Vucic highlighted the deep economic and diplomatic ties between Serbia and Austria. "Austria is an important country for Serbia. It is our third-largest investor after China and the Netherlands. I thank Austria for making significant investments in Serbia," he remarked. Vucic also acknowledged Austria’s role in fostering regional peace and stability, expressing hope that economic relations between the two countries could be further strengthened.

Reaffirming his position on Kosovo, Vucic reiterated that Serbia remains committed to resolving its issues with Kosovo through continued dialogue.

During his visit, Stocker also signed an economic cooperation agreement with Serbian Prime Minister Djuro Macut.

Tensions between Serbia and Kosovo continue to simmer, with Belgrade steadfastly refusing to recognize Kosovo’s 2008 declaration of independence. Despite the EU-mediated Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue, initiated in 2011, efforts to normalize relations have encountered numerous obstacles.

The most recent setback occurred in July, when Kosovo authorities arrested a Serbian official, prompting Serbia to halt its participation in the normalization talks.

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