The Joint Rule of Law Coordination Board meeting, co-chaired by the Head of EULEX, Yves de Kermabon, and Deputy Prime Minister Hajredin Kuci, yesterday held its 15th meeting at the EULEX HQ in Pristina.

One of the key issues discussed was the need to boost the fight against corruption. Both EULEX and the Kosovo authorities have agreed to support the increase of resources to the Special Prosecutor’s Office (SPRK).

Deputy Prime Minister Kuci said extra ‘political and financial support will be provided for a task force’ to fight corruption. The Head of EULEX welcomed the Government’s determination to deal with this serious issue.

“We have to build a structure to show that EULEX and the Government are committed to fight corruption,” said Yves de Kermabon.

It is envisaged that specialists in areas such as taxation, business, accounts and public procurement will be recruited in order to support the prosecutors’ work in the SPRK.

A number of other issues were discussed by the Board, which co-ordinates the work in improving the rule of law in Kosovo. There was a discussion on plans to improve the Civil Emergency Planning Process.

Both EULEX and the Kosovo Interior Ministry agreed to work together on this, supported by KFOR and the Kosovo Security Force.

There were also discussions on improving international legal assistance, the law on foreigners and the work of the Independent Review Board, which examines appeals in the area of taxation and customs.