"For the first time in contemporary history, after the collapse of the bipolar system, the Balkans ceased being the battlefield of the big powers vying for power. This made the region's prospects not only for completing the process of emancipation of all its peoples, but also for its integration into the broader European community more realistic. In this latter process, the EU has played a key role since the very beginning of the Yugoslav crisis and wars. The resolution of the status of Kosovo will finalise the process of Yugoslavia's disintegration, which in turn should contribute to the consolidation and stabilisation of the Balkans. Only through formal recognition of the independence of Kosovo, and winding up of the state issue of Serbia, will it be possible to round out the Balkans security arrangements and accelerate the essential stabilisation of the region."