I expect that we'll conclude an agreement next month to exchange liaison officers between Belgrade and Pristina, and that this mechanism of the sui generis type will begin to operate, thus facilitating quicker lines of communication with the authorities in Pristina, says in an interview for Danas daily newspaper Ivan Mrkic, Serbian Minister of Foreign Affairs.

There has been an impasse in the discussions between the implementation teams of Belgrade and Pristina. What seems to be the major stumbling block, and do you hope that the outcome of the negotiations will be successful?
- I trust and believe that they will be a success and that the Serbian side will do its utmost to have even these negotiations fruitful. The problem seems to be that the Pristina authorities think that we'll become nervous and take steps in haste because the end of June deadline is getting near. All those thinking like this are wrong. We have, as ever, not been losing sight for a moment of anything that might harm our interests in any way.
How do you comment on the Serbs of northern Kosovo being opposed to the implementation of the agreement? In your opinion, what would make them change their mind?
- I feel that following the talks that Aleksandar Vucic had with them on Sunday, our compatriots of northern Kosovo see things more clearly and I believe that from now on it'll be much easier for them to decide on the essential interest of us all, and the Serbs of Kosovo and Metohija, in particular. Taking lightly the results of the painstaking efforts of our negotiating team, is irresponsible and doesn't reflect the actual circumstances, nor is it conducive to a tranquil life and development of the Serbs there.
What will the Serbian Government propose to do if the Serbs of northern Kosovo are not brought around?
- We'll not force anyone, but as they are an inseparable part of the fabric of Serbia, I am confident that they will soon begin reasoning in their own interest and that of us all, and that together for the umpteenth time we'll turn the corner and get safe. The Serbian nation has always been undefeated when united, and I believe that this'll be the case this time again.
How realistic are the chances that we are going to have the date for the opening of negotiations by the end of June? Will discussions of the implementation teams also have an impact?
- I think these chances are realistic. It is important that everyone observing our effort to come to the first agreement with Pristina sees our good will and a very responsible approach. But we cannot dictate reciprocity to the other side across the table.
Is Serbia already working on setting up a team that will negotiate with the EU once the membership talks are opened?
- Preparations for it are well underway. In this regard, primary responsibility is vested in Deputy PM Suzana Grubjesic, Director of the Serbian European Integration Office Milan Pajevic, and in my Ministry, as well. We'll be fully ready when the decision to open negotiations with the EU is made.