The Serbian government on April 22 approved an EU-brokered deal with Kosovo, FOCUS news agency reported, citing AFP.

The European Commission is set to delay a recommendation due April 16 regarding Serbia's readiness to start EU accession talks, Reuters reported, citing diplomats.

Serbian Prime Minister Ivica Dacic and Kosovar Prime Minister Hashim Thaci met for the first time during talks organized by the European Union in Brussels, BBC reported Oct. 19. The discussions were chaired by EU foreign affairs chief Catherine Ashton, who said she would meet again soon with both leaders to hold talks that would bring Serbia and Kosovo closer to the European Union. Serbia's refusal to recognize Kosovo's independence has long been an obstacle for Belgrade's goal of joining the European Union.

Turkey will help the Kosovo Security Forces reach full operational ability, Commander of the Turkish Ground Forces Gen. Hayri Kivrikoglu said, Balkan Insight reported Sept. 20.

The West will grant Kosovo full sovereignty Sept. 10, AFP reported.