Ritchie Torres, one of the most vocal American congressmen on the issue of Kosovo, was happy with the news that the youngest country in Europe has become an associate member of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly. On the “X” platform, he wrote that he would to continue to push forward the full membership of Kosovo in NATO. “More must be done – mark my words that I will continue to push forward their full inclusion in NATO” – wrote Torres.
Four days ago, on 24.05.2024, the Foreign Minister of Kosovo, Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, during her stay in the USA, met this congressman. During the meeting with him, she spoke about political processes, security challenges in the region, Euro-Atlantic integration, as well as cooperation in the economy and sustainable development in Kosovo. On 27.04.2024, the NATO Parliamentary Assembly approved the recommendation for advancing the status of Kosovo from an observer member to an associate member. The majority of member countries voted for this decision, one was against and 14 abstained. of NATO.
In addition, states with this status can serve as special associate rapporteurs in committees to present their perspectives in NATO-Parliamentary Assembly reports. However, these states do not have the right to vote on reports, resolutions or PA leadership. of NATO and do not even contribute to its budget. Currently, there are nine countries associated in the PA of NATO. The Assembly of Kosovo, for years, has been an observer delegation with two seats. Now, with the advancement of the status, it will be possible to expand the participating Kosovar delegation. The Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, has considered the approval of the recommendation in the AP as an important step towards Euro-Atlantic integration.
The head of the executive has expressed gratitude to friends and partners who with their vote gave support to Kosovo. “Congratulations to all state officials who worked for this achievement, and many congratulations to the citizens of the Republic. Thanks and gratitude to all friends and partners who with their vote today gave support to the advancement of Kosovo’s status in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and who always stand by Kosovo’s side” – stated Kurti
