Pristina, February 2, 2012 NOA/ Rid Bulku – Was held the meeting of Joint Coordinating Board on Rule of Law which is chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice, Hajredin Kuçi, Chief of EULEX, Xavier Bout de Marnhac and Acting Chief of Liaison Office of EC, Khaldoun Sinno. Several topics were discussed in this meeting, which are set as priority for 2012.

In the opening speech, Deputy Prime Minister, Hajredin Kuçi pointed out that it has been a pleasure the fulfillment of priorities within the Rule of Law and initiation of the dialogue for visa liberalization, which are concrete steps towards European perspective for Kosovo, NOA.al News Agency reported.

“The initiation of dialogue for visa liberalization will be top priority of Kosovo Government, and all interested parties will be highly committed to complete their respective obligations. On this occasion, in the name of Kosovo Government, I would like to express highest gratitude towards initiation of this process” –Mr. Kuçi pointed out.

“Kosovo Government will be determined to address all challenges deriving from the rule of law and order”, Deputy Prime Minister Kuçi said. He added, that there will be an increased focus towards functionalizing courts in the north of Kosovo, fight against corruption and organized crime, and expressed his belief that national institutions, EULEX and European Commission Liaison Office will provide answers for these challenges.

EULEX Head of Mission Xavier Bout de Marnhac said: ‘The focus for EULEX this year is on three areas. First is enhancing the fight against organized crime and corruption, including more joint investigations with Kosovo counterparts. Second is supporting the EU facilitated Pristina-Belgrade Dialogue. And third is restoring freedom of movement and rule of law operations in northern Kosovo.’

De Marnhac stressed the importance of making progress on key legislation for the justice sector this year.

‘Passing key legislation and building capacities to confiscate illegally obtained assets will be critical in tackling criminals where it hurts most: their pockets.’

De Marnhac also mentioned the importance of strengthening the role of the Police Inspectorate of Kosovo, improving witness protection and ensuring that the Kosovo Correctional Service is functioning properly, among other areas.

Khaldoun Sinno, Acting Head of EC Liaison Office said: "There is a direct convergence of priorities between the visa liberalization dialogue and the Joint Rule of Law Coordination Board priorities among which the fight against organized crime and narcotics, anti-corruption and other related areas feature high. In other words, we are using two strong policy tools to achieve the same results that will ultimately benefit Kosovo and its citizens."

Furthermore, the Board was informed in relation to functioning of the Centre/ Unit of Financial Intelligence, Draft Law on Confiscation of Wealth acquired by illegal means and Drat Code of Penal Procedure, it has also been presented the concept document for Task Force against Organized Crime.

Next meeting of Coordinating Board on Rule of Law is planned to be held in April 2012 r.b/NOA