In a significant meeting held today, the European Union Ambassador to Kosovo, Aivo Orav, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to bringing Kosovo closer to full membership in the European Union. This was conveyed after his discussions with Prishtina’s Mayor, Përparim Rama, where the two leaders focused on the city’s challenges and opportunities for further cooperation.
Ambassador Orav highlighted the importance of accelerating Kosovo’s EU integration process, stating that the goal is to offer Kosovo the opportunity for EU membership as soon as possible. Orav emphasized that this effort extends beyond government institutions, with the EU working closely with municipalities across Kosovo to achieve this vision.
Key Areas of Cooperation Between Kosovo and the EU
During the meeting, Ambassador Orav discussed a range of EU-supported projects that aim to improve various sectors in Kosovo. “The European Union is Kosovo’s largest donor, and there are many ongoing and planned projects in key areas such as education, healthcare, waste management, and youth cooperation,” said Orav.
He further emphasized that the EU’s support is not limited to governmental institutions but also extends to municipal levels to ensure Kosovo’s successful integration into the EU. The goal is to create a comprehensive approach that improves living standards and facilitates Kosovo’s accession to the European Union.
Prishtina’s Progress and Vision for the Future
Mayor Përparim Rama shared an update on the progress made in Prishtina, particularly in sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. He expressed optimism about further EU cooperation, emphasizing that the city is working diligently to meet the standards and responsibilities set by the European Union.
“We are taking important steps to improve the infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems in Prishtina,” said Rama. “We are also working on creating spaces for art, culture, and education, ensuring that the capital city reflects European values and development standards.”
Rama also highlighted ongoing efforts to address current challenges, including waste management and creating smart city infrastructure, which aligns with EU standards. “We are committed to fulfilling all the obligations and tasks that the European Union has given us, and we look forward to working even more closely with the EU in the future,” Rama added.
The Road Ahead for Kosovo’s EU Membership
Both leaders stressed that Kosovo’s progress towards EU membership is a continuous journey. With the support of the European Union, Kosovo’s institutions are working towards meeting the necessary criteria for integration. Ambassador Orav expressed confidence that, with ongoing projects and collaboration at both local and national levels, Kosovo’s EU integration will continue to progress.
As the EU’s largest donor, the European Union is not only investing in Kosovo’s future but also paving the way for closer ties and eventual full membership. The collaboration between Kosovo’s government and municipalities is a crucial part of this process, ensuring that Kosovo is well-prepared for the challenges of EU membership.
