It has been nine years since the entry into force of the Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA) between the European Union and the Republic of Kosovo, one of the most important agreements for the country since its declaration of independence. This agreement has opened new opportunities for Kosovo’s development, but according to economic experts, the opportunities it offered have not been fully utilized by Kosovo’s institutions, KosovaPress reports.
According to them, the SAA has been of tremendous importance for Kosovo’s development, not only in political and economic aspects but also in geostrategic terms. Economic expert Safet Gerxhaliu views this agreement as a significant opportunity to advance many aspects of the state, including economic integration and increased trade. However, he criticizes Kosovo’s institutions for not taking full advantage of the opportunities provided by this partnership.
Gerxhaliu also points out that the EU’s sanctions against Kosovo are evidence of the failure of Kosovo’s institutions to benefit from this partnership, KosovaPress writes.
On the other hand, Blerina Istrefi from the Group for Legal and Political Studies (GLPS) states that so far only 50% of the commitments outlined in the SAA have been fulfilled, but as she notes, this is insufficient given the role and impact of the SAA on Kosovo’s economic field.
“As for the Stabilization and Association Agreement, we can say that about 50% of the implementation plan has been fulfilled, however, this is insufficient considering the role and impact of the SAA on Kosovo’s economic field. Every year, Kosovo has obligations arising from this agreement, yet considering that since June 2023, the implementation of these measures has been suspended due to the sanctions we are under, the fact is that Kosovo has unilaterally committed to implementing some of the obligations arising from the SAA,” she states.
The SAA represents the culmination of more than a decade and a half of Kosovo’s institutions’ efforts and commitment to the European agenda, and at the same time, it marks a new beginning, accelerating and strengthening the EU integration process towards membership.
This was the first contractual agreement between the EU and Kosovo, signed on October 27, 2015, and has been approved by the European Parliament and ratified by Kosovo’s Assembly. The agreement entered into force on April 1, 2016.
The SAA brings numerous benefits, affecting political, economic, and legislative alignment, which will ultimately improve institutions, the business environment, and impact the well-being of all citizens.
Regarding the political aspect, Kosovo is committed to implementing an even more ambitious reform agenda directed towards political, economic, and social development. On the other hand, the EU commits to providing Kosovo with all the instruments it has available, including financial ones, to implement these reforms so that the country meets the criteria for membership.
From an economic standpoint, the SAA strengthens economic and trade relations between Kosovo and the EU, gradually creating a free trade area between the EU and Kosovo, KosovaPress reports.
