”Sanctions are not the primary means of engagement of the United States (U.S.) in the Western Balkans, but they have an effect and they will be used again, ” stated Deputy Assistant Secretary of State and Special Envoy for the Region, Gabriel Escobar, adding that corruption is a major issue in the Balkans.
Escobar pointed out for the Voice of America that the U.S.policy and engagement in the Western Balkans traditionally refer to multiethnic reconciliation and integration into the European Union (EU).
“In this regard, the policy of the last four administrations has been very consistent. I can say that there has been a change inthe amount of attention the Western Balkans have received in this administration. So, there is a renewed effort for us to re-engage in all the mechanisms that have been successful, and that is to strengthen Dayton, to support and renew the dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo, and to work closely with our NATO partners to ensure that they can meet their NATO obligations. And I would say that we were very successful in most of that, “ Escobar emphasized.
He added that “it is a little frustrating that, on the one side, there has been no further progress in European integration, which many countries have not made further progress in implementing reforms.”
“Especially in the fight against corruption, which I would say is the biggest challenge in the Western Balkans. But, I must say that we have very good partners in the region and governments that are committed to this program of European integration, the fight against corruption, and deepening ties with neighbors, “ he told.
“I would say that sanctions have been an important tool in stabilizing the region and I can tell you that they have an effect,” Escobar mentioned.
