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Address by Raimonda Murmokaitė, Permanent Representative of Lithuania to the UN  I would like to thank His Excellency Tomislav Nikolič, President Serbia and Her Excellency Atifete Jahjaga, President of Kosovo, for their statements. I also thank Mr. Farid Zarif, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, for his briefing. Let me start by expressing Lithuania’s condolences and solidarity with all those affected by the worst flooding in in the region over a century. Lithuania together with other international partners stands ready to contribute assistance and support to the flood victims.

Mr. President,

I would like to note Kosovo’s constructive approach in the negotiations for a Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the EU, which were formally completed on 6 May. This is a reflection of Kosovo’s commitment to continue comprehensive reforms on its European path.

Today, I will focus on three elements –implementation of Belgrade-Priština Agreement, elections, and the extension of EULEX mandate.

During the reporting period, Belgrade and Priština maintained active engagement in the EU-facilitated dialogue even though the pace was somewhat reduced due to the electoral cycles in Serbia and Kosovo. The continued commitment and political will of the leaders to proceed with the dialogue and implementation of the agreements is commendable and encouraging.

We welcome the statement of the head of the new Government in Serbia Mr. A.Vučić that the continuation of Brussels-based dialogue is a priority for the government and is in the best interests of the Serbs in Kosovo.

We hope that after the results of the parliamentary elections in Kosovo of 8 June tangible steps towards normalization of relations with Serbia will continue as well. The progress achieved so far must be sustained and further advanced. We trust that a fair and democratic conduct of the parliamentary elections in Kosovo will further strengthen the functioning of democracy in Kosovo and will increase confidence in state institutions.

The elections in Kosovo will be followed closely by the international community. We support the role of European Union Election Observation Mission and the OSCE in providing assistance to local authorities in conducting these elections in accordance with international standards.

At the moment, KFOR and UNMIK continue to contribute to the maintenance of peace and stability on the ground, while EULEX plays a key role in the consolidation of the rule of law. It is Kosovo’s legitimate interest to develop its own capabilities to ensure rule of law and security within its territory. This goal is fully achievable.

Lithuania welcomes the decision of the Parliament of the Republic of Kosovo on the creation of a Special Court to follow-up on cases investigated by the Special Investigative Task Force on war crimes, as well as invitation to extend EULEX mandate for another two years.

Much remains to be done, however. The escape of three three high-profile war crimes suspects is a cause of concern. We call on the Kosovo authorities to ensure a due process of war crimes investigations and to bring all perpetrators to justice.

The situation in the north remains complex. Security gaps affect institutions, international actors, and daily life of local communities. A recent attack of 25 April against EULEX Police reminded us of the 19 September 2013, when an attack against EULEX Kosovo staff members resulted in the death of a Lithuanian officer. We call on respective authorities to thoroughly investigate all such criminal acts and to bring their perpetrators to justice.

Mr. President,

Implementation of the April Agreement aims at building inclusive societies and bridges between the people. Tackling legacies of the past and ensuring transitional and transnational justice for all the victims, including minority refugees and displaced persons remains a cornerstone of peaceful cohabitation within the state and among the countries.

In the context of progress in implementing Belgrade-Pristina agreement, my delegation remains open to reviewing the current UNMIK reporting cycle at the Council, with a view to reduction of its frequency, and considering a reduction of UN peacekeeping operation in Kosovo in accordance with the development of facts on the ground.

I thank you.