European Commission (EC) President Jose Manuel Barroso said Friday that he invited representatives of Kosovo institutions to continue with a constructive approach in the dialogue with Belgrade.

It is high time for politicians on both sides to work hard and find durable solutions for many difficult practical issues faced by both Kosovo and Serbs in daily life, Barroso said, addressing reporters after a meeting with Kosovo's Prime Minister Hasim Taci in Pristina.

He said his meetings with Kosovo's prime minister and President Atifete Jafjaga were beneficial and that he reaffirmed strong commitment to Kosovo and its European perspective.

The Commission will continue to assist Kosovo. We are setting aside serious aid. Today, Kosovo is getting the highest aid per capita, Barroso said.

He pointed out, however, that Kosovo needs to help itself in order to meet its EU integration goals.

We are here to help you, but it is up to you to ensure steps forwards, in the fight against corruption, in reform, in rule of law. You need to do this yourselves, the EC president underlined.

After the meetings in Pristina, he attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the new municipal hall in Gracanica and visited the medieval monastery.