No Slovenian troops serving in in the NATO-led KFOR mission have been involved in the the stabilising efforts of the latest tensions that arose in Kosovo on Monday when Kosovo special police tried to assume control over two border crossings, the Slovenian Defence Ministry said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Borut Pahor expressed concern over the incidents that took place as Kosovo special police wanted to take over the Jarinje and Brnjak border crossings with Serbia. He warned against unilateral moves and possible acts of retaliation.
"It would be great shame if...unilateral decisions interrupted or even finished this dialogue [between Serbia and Kosovo]," said Pahor, adding that it would be good for both sides and the stability of the region if talks were relaunched as soon as possible.
Pahor also expressed concern for the safety of Slovenian troops, as they are the largest foreign contingent stationed in the north of Kosovo.
The ministry told the STA that in such cases the first to get involved are Kosovo defence forces, followed by EULEX and only then KFOR.
The Slovenian contingent continues to perform its duties as before the tensions in the north of Kosovo. Security risk levels in other parts of the country remain unchanged, according to the Defence Ministry.
The Defence Ministry said that the 317-strong Slovenian contingent in Kosovo is located at a safe and stable environment, preparing the conditions for transition of power to civilian authorities and protecting important buildings.
Source: SLOVENIATIMES
