THE UNITED NATIONS - Twenty years after the adoption of a key resolution on the conflict in Kosovo, the UN Security Council heard from the head of the UN mission there (UNMIK), Zahir Tanin, that tensions are rising with Serbia and that, “in the absence of a genuine and necessary process of engagement… the situation can slide backwards”.

Citing a tariff dispute since November, “multiple inconsistent public signals”, he called on leaders from all sides to “exercise their responsibility of steering this complex situation clear of any serious escalations.”

Special Representative Tanin also briefed the Security Council on the arrest and injury of two UNMIK staff this part 28 May, stating that this was a violation of their immunity and that an enquiry has been launched. “Regardless of events such as the ones on 28 May, UNMIK continues to focus its efforts and resources toward the objectives of peace and stability in Kosovo and the region,” he stressed.