Aivo Orav, an experienced Estonian diplomat, has been named the new EU Special Representative in Kosovo*. Orav, who previously served as Head of EU Delegations to Montenegro and North Macedonia, will commence his duties on 1 September 2024 for an initial term of two years.
In a parallel appointment, Luigi Soreca will take over as the EU Special Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, succeeding Johann Sattler. Soreca, who has an extensive background as the former Head of the EU Delegation to Albania, will also begin his new role on 1 September 2024.
Additionally, Miroslav Lajčák, the EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue and other Western Balkans regional issues, has had his mandate extended until 31 January 2025. Lajčák’s continued involvement underscores the EU’s commitment to facilitating dialogue and stability in the region.
These appointments highlight the EU’s strategic focus on the Western Balkans, aiming to bolster diplomatic efforts and foster stability in a region pivotal to European security and integration.