Freedom of Movement Begins Between Kosovo and Serbia

Posted December 26th, 2011 at 4:45 pm (UTC-5)
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For the first time since Kosovo declared its independence in 2008, its citizens are allowed to enter Serbian territory and travel freely.

An accord to allow freedom of movement in Serbia to all citizens of Kosovo went into effect Monday. The agreement was reached Thursday during European Union-brokered talks between Belgrade and Pristina.

Under the agreement, Kosovo citizens who have documents issued by their government can get temporary Serbian identity documents allowing them free travel in Serbia. Kosovo citizens can also pay for temporary Serbian license plates if their cars are registered in Kosovo.

Serbia has never accepted Kosovo's declaration of independence, which has been recognized by the United States and most European Union countries. Earlier this month, the EU decided to delay until March a decision on whether Serbia could become a candidate to join the European bloc. The EU called on Serbia to improve relations with Kosovo and implement previously reached agreements.