Belgrade, 30 November 2021 – The Minister of Economy, Artane Rizvanolli, participated in the 19th Ministerial Meeting organized by the Energy Community Secretariat.

The focus of this year’s meeting was on the Clean Energy Package 1 and 2 which was approved as a development following the reforms of the gas and electricity market oriented towards the transition to green energy. During the meeting, the Decarbonization Guide with Green Deal elements was also approved, which aims to transfer the Energy Community to the Energy and Climate Community over the next decade.

During her speech, Minister Rizvanolli reiterated that the Republic of Kosovo appreciates the process aimed at reforming the Treaty and supports most of the proposed amendments. However, she noted that formal and adequate representation is important to avoid any possible legal uncertainties regarding rights and responsibilities.

Therefore, Minister Rizvanolli has requested that the name be changed from UNMIK to the Republic of Kosovo in the Treaty as the Government of Kosovo is a legal party to all the requirements of the Treaty since 17 February 2008. The Republic of Albania and that of North Macedonia have expressed their support for the Republic of Kosovo in this matter.

Further, Minister Rizvanolli opened the issue of the interconnection line between Kosovo and Serbia before the secretariat, asking them to act in accordance with the Rules for the Settlement of Disputes by the relevant institutions of the Energy Community.

The Minister noted that the lack of access to capacity on the border with Serbia is restricting trade and causing financial implications for traders, which has seriously damaged and limited trade transactions in Southeast Europe. The Republic of Albania, which is also affected by this issue, has expressed its support.