Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 270: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position in regard to achieving equilibrium in the western Balkans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38702/08]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Ireland, together with its EU partners, attaches great importance to achieving stability in the countries of the Western Balkans, including through the European Union's Stabilisation and Association (SAA) process. This process provides the framework for co-operation on economic, political and legal matters and aims to bring countries closer to EU standards and principles. Stabilisation and Association Agreements have now been signed with all the countries in the region with the exception of Kosovo.

Recent developments in the Western Balkans have largely focused on Kosovo and the decision of the Kosovo Assembly to declare independence on 17 February 2008. On 18 February, EU Foreign Ministers agreed a common response to Kosovo's declaration of independence, noting the uniqueness of Kosovo's situation, and reaffirming the EU's willingness to play a leading role in strengthening stability in the region including by means of the planned ESDP rule of law mission, EULEX KOSOVO.

It also agreed that Member States would decide, in accordance with national practice and international law, on their relations with Kosovo. Since then, 22 EU Member States, including Ireland, have recognised Kosovo's independence.

With the coming into force of the new Kosovo constitution on 15 June, the EU's main aim is to enable a smooth transition from the current UN mission (UNMIK) to the EULEX KOSOVO mission, and to ensure that the international presence can operate effectively throughout Kosovo, including Serb majority areas in the North. The EU is working closely with the UN to achieve this. 234 Irish troops continue to serve in the UN-mandated KFOR peacekeeping force.

In recent weeks, there has been detailed discussion of current political developments in Bosnia-Herzegovina, and the need for reinforced EU engagement there. The EU will continue to encourage the Government in Bosnia-Herzegovina to make every effort to focus on its potential for EU membership. The forthcoming General Affairs and External Relations Council, to be held on 10 November, will discuss Bosnia-Herzegovina, including the future of Operation Althea, in which 44 Irish troops continue to serve.