Kosovo President Justina Shiroka Pula met with US Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Dick Durbin on Monday, emphasizing the importance of restoring the Strategic Dialogue between Kosovo and the United States and reaffirming Kosovo’s goal of joining NATO.
According to a statement from the Kosovo Presidency, Shiroka Pula highlighted Kosovo’s appreciation for the United States’ continued bipartisan support, describing Washington as a strategic ally and indispensable partner.
In this context, she stressed the need to immediately resume the Strategic Dialogue as a key mechanism for deepening bilateral cooperation and advancing shared priorities.
The president underlined that NATO membership remains one of Kosovo’s primary objectives, emphasizing the importance of continued US support.
“US support is crucial on this path. Kosovo’s membership in NATO would mean greater security and stability not only for our country but for the entire region,” Shiroka Pula said.
During the meeting, the president thanked Senator Shaheen for her continued engagement and contribution to Kosovo. She particularly highlighted Shaheen’s support for maintaining the US military presence within NATO’s Kosovo Force (KFOR).
The Presidency also praised a letter Shaheen sent to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio advocating for the continuation of the American military presence, describing it as strategically important for Kosovo’s security and for preventing regional tensions.
Shiroka Pula also recalled Shaheen’s strong response following the September 24, 2023, attack in Banjska, in which Kosovo Police Sergeant Afrim Bunjaku was killed. The senator had called for those responsible to be held accountable.
In recognition of her sustained support for Kosovo and her contribution to security, peace and regional stability, Shiroka Pula awarded Shaheen the Presidential Medal of Merit.
According to the Presidency, this was the first decoration awarded by Shiroka Pula since she assumed office.
