The Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo ratifies the Stabilisation Association Agreement

Minister of European Integration, Mr. Bekim Çollaku, upon proposing the adoption the draft law on Ratification of the SAA, before members of the Assembly, emphasised that the SAA is the first and the most important step undertaken in the light of Kosovo`s journey towards membership in the European Union.

“Not intending to exaggerate, however, the importance of this agreement for strategic, political and economic orientation of the country is vital. Kosovo is now ready to assume obligations and make the necessary reforms to meet EU membership criteria. Undoubtedly, as a result of this agreement, the fate of Kosovo and the EU will be more closely connected – and, I strongly believe that this is a great achievement, fair and fully consistent with our state interest, that of Euro -Atlantic integrations,” stated Minister Çollaku.

Minister Çollaku, emphasized that the SAA will bring motivation and impetus and the new obligations to Kosovo to implement the reforms that our country needs, starting with further strengthening of the rule of law, combating crime and corruption, economic reforms, with a view to generate jobs and boosting of trade exchange with the EU, by increasing the export of Kosovo products.

“By doing so Kosovo will be more developed and ready to join the European family “, stated the Minister, explaining that the Agreement is similar to those of countries in the region who enjoys an EU membership perspective.

Further, the Minister of European Integration, provided an overview to MPs on the political, legal and economic importance of the Stabilisation Association Agreement.

From a political standpoint, SAA shifted our relations with the EU from political, declarative and goodwill relations to real contractual relations outlining rights and obligations for both signatory parties.

From a legal standpoint, the SAA confirmed that it has  legal basis similar to the SAA`s of the regional countries. “SAA has been negotiated on the basis of Article 218 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. This legal basis provides that the European Union may conclude international agreements with third countries. SAA formalizes our institutional dialogue with the European Union through the establishment of institutional mechanisms. The Republic of Kosovo assumes the task to gradually approximate the existing and future legislation with  all EU legislation,” explained Minister Çollaku.

From an economic standpoint, the SAA will have a wide range of positive effects, stated minister Çollaku.

Minister Çollaku underlined that the SAA aims to establish free trade area between Kosovo and the EU within 10 years.

“Upon the entry into force of the SAA,  it will enable a full access of Kosovo`s products in the EU market on one hand, and gradual liberalization of  Kosovo`s  market  for EU products on the other hand. The liberalization of trade between Kosovo and the EU will directly affect the growth of our economy’s competitiveness, whereby it will provide better quality services, better products and lower prices for citizens. SAA will provide more stability and predictability to investors and thus will contribute to the growth of foreign direct investment. In general, the SAA will affect restructuring of our economy, economic growth and in the reduction of unemployment “, stated Minister Çollaku.

Minister Çollaku also expressed his gratitude to all members of the Assembly of Kosovo upon the adoption of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement.