The American ambassador in Pristina, Jeffrey Hovenier, has said that not taking into account the requirements related to the CBK Regulation on foreign currencies has affected the relations that the USA has with the Government headed by Albin Kurti.
“I must be clear that it is simply not true. It just isn’t like that. As Assistant Secretary O’Brien stated, this situation has already affected the quality of our partnership between our two governments. Any suggestion to the contrary reflects a fundamental misunderstanding or a misinterpretation of the importance we place on resolving this issue in a way that responds to our concerns, and most importantly, done in a way that provides ongoing support for vulnerable people from the minority communities of Kosovo”, said Hovenier.
The American ambassador said that the Government’s refusal to consider the demands of the USA is reckless.
“My government has been clear. We have asked for a delay in implementation, this continues to be our position. So yes, I hope the Government take our advice and instead of just saying they’re talking to us about it, actually act on what we’re asking. This is our expectation for partnership”, added Hovenieri.
Despite the concerns expressed, Hovenier has emphasized that he cannot talk about the measures that can be taken against the Government.
Hovenier’s reaction was made after Prime Minister Kurti’s declaration that the United States of America remains the most important partner and ally that Kosovo has.
The USA, but also other Western countries, have opposed the entry into force of the CBK Regulation, which prohibits any currency other than the euro, including the Serbian dinar, for cash operations. The dinar is used in municipalities with a Serbian majority.
