Major General Enrico Barduani of the Italian Army, in his final address as KFOR Commander, highlighted that while the security situation in Kosovo has improved significantly since 1999, concerns remain due to unresolved political and social issues.
“Certainly, security has improved remarkably since KFOR’s deployment, with forces now reduced to less than 10% of their original size in 1999. This is a major achievement. However, there are still concerns about the potential loss of security due to unresolved issues. That is why KFOR’s role remains critical and must be seen as part of the broader international community’s continued engagement,” Barduani stated.
He emphasized that the EU-facilitated dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia remains the essential framework for resolving open issues and ensuring solutions that respect the rights of all communities. NATO, he added, fully supports this process, with KFOR playing an active role in maintaining stability.
Barduani officially ended his mandate, handing over command of KFOR to Major General Özkan Ulutaş of the Turkish Army.
The handover ceremony, held at KFOR Headquarters, was attended by President Vjosa Osmani, Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti, and several cabinet ministers.
