The Slovak diplomat, Miroslav Lajčak, will soon leave the post of the European Union's special emissary for the Western Balkans and mediator of the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue.

The EU has nominated him as Ambassador to Switzerland, while Lajcak himself reveals that his mandate expires on August 31.

"It has always been clear because the mandate of EU special representatives is equal to the mandate of EU ambassadors, which lasts four years. So there is a rule that special representatives cannot stay for more than four years. I have just started my fifth year and my term ends on August 31," said the Slovak.

"There was never an argument, I never planned to leave or stay longer. It is logical that with the new leadership of the European Union, it is also good to start a new phase of the process. So, until August 31, I am fully responsible and fully committed to this process", added the emissary.

Speaking about the new emissary/mediator who is expected to take the position, the former Slovak chief diplomat says that it is not his place to speak. Lajçak says that he knows well the former Slovenian president Borut Pahor, who has shown ambition to take the office.

"I will not be part of the selection of my successor, so I should not make a statement. But, obviously, I have known President Pahor for many years. We have met and discussed the situation in the Western Balkans on several occasions, I know that he is very interested in the region and also very knowledgeable. So, of course, this is a very important factor. That's probably as much as I can say at this point."