Kosovo’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Glauk Konjufca, held a meeting with his Swiss counterpart, Federal Councillor for Foreign Affairs Ignazio Cassis.
Following the meeting, Konjufca praised relations between Kosovo and Switzerland, saying there is considerable potential to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
He emphasised that Switzerland has been an unwavering partner of Kosovo since recognising its independence on 27 February 2008.
“Switzerland has been an unwavering partner of Kosovo from the very beginning. Since recognising our independence on 27 February 2008, Switzerland has stood by Kosovo, supporting our development, international engagement and efforts to build a democratic, stable and prosperous state. We deeply value this friendship and the trust that characterises our partnership,” Konjufca said.
Kosovo’s top diplomat also highlighted the role of the Kosovo diaspora in Switzerland, describing it as one of the most important pillars of relations between the two countries.
“Today, Kosovo’s diaspora in Switzerland is much more than just a bridge connecting our two countries. It is an inseparable part of our shared history. It preserves our language, culture and traditions while also contributing to the society in which it lives and where it has achieved a high level of social, cultural and civic integration. As Kosovo, we are grateful to Switzerland for the hospitality, opportunities and support it has provided to our compatriots,” he said.
According to Konjufca, the meeting also addressed Switzerland’s Cooperation Programme for 2026–2029 and opportunities to expand the partnership in development cooperation, political dialogue, trade, investment, education and innovation.
He noted that the entry into force of the free trade agreement between Kosovo and the EFTA countries creates new opportunities for businesses and economic cooperation.
Konjufca also thanked Switzerland for its support for Kosovo’s European path, particularly its backing for the country’s membership in the Council of Europe.
“We appreciate Switzerland’s constructive support for Kosovo’s European path, including its backing for our membership in the Council of Europe. I thanked Minister Cassis for the Swiss delegation to the Council of Europe, which voted in favour of Kosovo’s membership in the Parliamentary Assembly. We are now moving forward, and we certainly expect Switzerland’s support in the next stages of our full membership in the Council of Europe,” Konjufca stated.
Finally, he expressed gratitude for Switzerland’s longstanding contribution to peace and security in Kosovo, highlighting the involvement of the Swiss contingent, Swisscoy, within the NATO-led KFOR mission.
He stressed that Switzerland’s continued engagement remains important for maintaining peace and security in Kosovo.
