MPs throw 'tear gas' canisters in Kosovo's parliament in attempt to disrupt debate

Politicians were debating a hugely contentious agreement to normalise relations with neighbouring Serbia

Politicians in Kosovo appear to have thrown tear gas at their fellow MPs during a live parliamentary session on talks with neighbouring Serbia.

The issue is particularly contentious because Serbia continues to refuse to recognise Kosovo since it declared independence in 2008.

Two MPs were reported to have fainted after the canisters were thrown in the Assembly Hall, Pristina, allegedly by opposition MP Albin Kurti after the session had already descended into chaos with whistles blown and in footage from the chamber politicians can be seen standing at the front of the hall.

The leader of the opposition Self-Determination party, apparently triggered the devices - which have also been identified as smoke canisters - in parliament and kicked them around the chamber to spread the smoke.

It is believed the gas was thrown in a bid to shut down parliament following an agreement brokered by the European Union earlier in August to improve relations between Kosovo and Serbia.

It is only the latest outburst in recent weeks. Last month Prime Minister was egged by opposition MPs during a session – broadcast on live television – on the same issue.

The “landmark” agreements are aimed at normalising relations between the two countries, according to mediator and EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini.

But ethnic Albanians – who make up the majority of Kosovo’s population – have bitterly rejected the agreements with former ruler Belgrade.