Albania expresses deep concern over the statement by the President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, regarding the possibility of altering the course of the Ibër River and the involvement of Serbian experts and institutions in considering such a possibility.

The alteration of the course of a river that forms part of a transboundary water system is not merely an internal matter, nor is it a decision that can be taken unilaterally, particularly when its consequences directly affect the territory, environment, water security, water supply, and the lives of citizens of another country.

International water law is clear in this regard. The principles of equitable and reasonable utilization of transboundary waters, the obligation to prevent, control and reduce transboundary harm, as well as the obligation to cooperate, exchange information, and consult on measures that may have transboundary impacts, form part of well-established standards of international law. Serbia has been a Party to the UNECE Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes since 2010 and has also accepted its mechanisms for the settlement of disputes.

Albania expects Serbia to fully respect its international obligations and the principles of good-neighbourly relations. Any project or measure that may affect the flow, quantity, or quality of waters affecting Kosovo must be addressed transparently, on the basis of scientific data, through a comprehensive assessment of transboundary impacts, and in consultation with the affected party.

Water must not be used as an instrument of political pressure or as a means of punishing another country or population.

Albania strongly supports Kosovo’s right to security, sustainable development, and the protection of its water resources.

Albania firmly believes, and expects, that such matters should be addressed through dialogue, cooperation, and European standards, rather than through threats, unilateral interventions, or actions.