Chief of NATO Military Liaisons Office to Belgrade Mauro De Vincentis has expressed strong belief that the situation related to the administrative crossings in Kosovo will be resolved in a peaceful way, and that KFOR will act with the support of Kosovo Serbs in order to ensure free movement of goods and people.

Bearing in mind with how much caution KFOR soldiers act in risky situations, I am sure that they will put all their efforts in easing the tension and reestablishing a safe and secure environment for members of all communities, and in keeping with their mandate, De Vincentis told the Belgrade daily Vecernje novosti.

The Italian general said that KFOR will continue to take part in talks, with the aim of reestablishing the freedom of movement in this area for all people in Kosovo, and added that Serbia should turn to the future and concentrate on resuming the dialogue with Pristina.

This is the only way to reach a sustainable solution, without use of violence which could destabilize Serbia and the region and heighten the risk of a slowdown in EU integration process. However, I am sure that the Serbian authorities are ready to deal with the current challenges, and that they will act to the benefit of their citizens, he noted

When asked whether KFOR and EULEX exceeded their mandate by use of force in recent developments in Kosovo, De Vincentis said that he knows that KFOR acted in self-defense, but with caution and completely in keeping with their mandate.

When it comes to Serbia and NATO, he said that the relations are good and based on mutual respect and confidence, adding that a possible decision on joining the NATO is on the Serbian government which is authorized for that by its citizens.

I can say that NATO has never put any pressure on Serbia in view of the matter, nor it would ever do such a thing. NATO is satisfied with Serbia's decision to become member of the Partnership for Peace program, and strongly convinced that such a relation is of mutual benefit.