Today marks the deadline for applications for the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy’s call for four EU special envoys, including one for the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue and other regional issues.
Pahor stated that the circumstances have changed since he announced his candidacy in the spring, outlining his reasons in seven points, including his personal views.
He criticized the decision to give the envoy for the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue a one-year mandate, while the other three special envoy positions have longer terms.
Pahor also mentioned learning through unofficial sources that the financial resources allocated to the envoy for the dialogue and their office would be reduced.
Furthermore, he noted that from informal discussions, it appeared that the EU was looking for a diplomat rather than a politician for the role of special envoy.
“This is, of course, a legitimate decision, but it reflects a continuation of the technical dialogue, which hasn’t proven to be the most effective. In my view, the situation has changed significantly, and now is the time for a politician to step in and make political interventions, of course, under the guidance of the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Any fear that this is related to my past political positions is arbitrary and unfounded,” Pahor explained.
Pahor expressed that his personal views on enlargement differ from the official EU policy.
He emphasized that the rapid admission of Montenegro and Albania could become an obstacle rather than an incentive. The Slovenian diplomat also pointed out that it was significant and telling that both Serbia and Kosovo considered the American elections to be far more important to them than the European elections.
“This highlights the diminished authority of the enlargement process in the region,” Pahor said.
He wished success to the elected mediator, the high representative, the Commissioner for Enlargement, the European Commission, and its President in the enlargement process.
“As the founder and director of the Institute of Friends of the Western Balkans, I will continue to push for this. If anyone believes I can be of help in this role, I will do my best,” Pahor emphasized.
