Today there are tensions between Kosovo and Serbia again. This is why one of my tasks is to convince Serbia to renew dialogue with Kosovo, Merkel said in her weekly video message.

Countries in the Balkans must have a will to cooperate with their neighbours and peacefully resolve conflicts. They must have mutual respect for one another because there can be no European prospects unless everyone invests efforts, although scars from the past are still deep, she said.

Merkel is scheduled to visit Croatia on Monday. On Tuesday, she is expected to travel to Belgrade.

The latest tensions between Serbia and Kosovo broke out in late July when Pristina attempted to deploy its customs officers at border crossings in northern Kosovo.