KFOR has started the gradual process of leaving the permanent presence in the Main Bridge of Mitrovica, gradually passing the responsibility for security to the Kosovo Police.
The NATO mission has clarified that it is a question of reorganization of the presence and not of withdrawal from Mitrovica or the north of Kosovo. The process will be developed gradually and in coordination with Kosovo institutions, Kosovo Police, EULEX and other security actors.
KFOR emphasizes that it will continue to have a visible presence in South and North Mitrovica, as well as in the northern part of Kosovo, maintaining the capacities to respond to any situation.
Acting Minister of Internal Affairs, Xelal Sveçla, described the decision as a positive development. He said that with the improvement of the security situation, the presence of the Kosovo Police on the bridge will be gradually reduced.
Sveçla stated that the goal is for the opening of the bridge to be realized as a positive development for everyone and without negative consequences for any community.
“This is good news. Kosovo is getting stronger and is ready to take all the responsibilities to guarantee security for everyone”, declared Sveçla.
According to him, the process will continue in close coordination with KFOR, while the next steps are expected to be made public in the future.
