Resolution adopted by the ELDR Congress 2008 in Stockholm

Kosovo

The European Liberal Democrat and Reform Party, convening in Stockholm, Sweden, on 30^th and 31^st October 2008, believes that:

A. the declaration of independence of Kosovo by the Kosovan Parliament, on 17^th February 2008 and the process of recognition of the Republic of Kosovo by more than 50 of the most influential and democratic countries in Europe and around the world is a reality and an opportunity for stability and the democratic future of Kosovo and all Western Balkan countries. 

B. The Declaration of the independence of Kosovo based on the plan of the former president of Finland, Martti Ahtisaari, long-time peace-making diplomat, who has recently won the Nobel Peace Prize, is the best and right solution for the future of Kosovo. The plan obliges the democratic institutions of Kosovo to work together on the principles of non-discrimination and equal treatment of all ethnic communities in Kosovo.

C. during the process of reconfiguration of the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) all parties are responsible for supporting the establishment of the European-led mission ‘EU-LEX’ throughout the territory of the Republic of Kosovo.

ELDR calls for:

1. All European countries, especially those of the Western Balkans, and those outside Europe to recognise the independence of Kosovo. 

2. EU member states to open the debate about immigration policy towards Kosovo and Western Balkan countries and, in the near future, to start a process of visa liberalisation adapting the laws to allow students and tourists to be able to visit the EU without the need for visas.

3. EU member states and institutions to open a dialogue about the European perspective and future integration of Kosovo and other Western Balkan countries into the EU.

4. EU member states and institutions to make a clear policy and strategy  about economic development, investments and free trade with Kosovo, including the possibility of giving students and seasonal employees from Kosovo the opportunity to be employed in an EU member state.

5.  EU institutions, the ELDR leadership and member parties to cooperate more closely with European-oriented liberal democratic forces in Kosovo and throughout the Western Balkans, knowing that liberal democracy is the best solution for the democratic future of this part of Europe.