The First Deputy Prime Minister of Kosovo, Besnik Bislimi, participated in the informal ministerial EU–Western Balkans dinner, where he emphasized the urgent need for regional unity in the face of escalating security challenges.
Bislimi thanked EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas for the invitation, as well as EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, noting that the meeting provided an important platform to address key political and security issues affecting the region.
Hybrid Threats and Security Risks
During his remarks, Bislimi highlighted the serious risks posed by hybrid attacks and other security threats that undermine democratic development in the Western Balkans.
He stressed that only coordinated European action can effectively counter these dangers.
Kosovo Deserves EU Candidate Status
One of Bislimi’s central messages was clear:
Kosovo has earned its place as an EU candidate country and should also be granted membership in the Council of Europe.
“Granting Kosovo candidate status and achieving consensus within the EU is a crucial step and a powerful message of unity,” he stated.
Direct Criticism of Serbia’s Destabilizing Actions
Bislimi criticized Serbia for its ongoing attempts to undermine Kosovo’s sovereignty:
- Serbia continues to challenge Kosovo’s territorial integrity
- Uses letters deposited in EU institutions to spread misinformation
- Sponsors terrorist acts on the ground, directly threatening stability in the region
These actions, he stressed, are incompatible with European values and represent a major obstacle to regional peace and EU integration.
Kosovo’s Progress Recognized
Bislimi also underlined Kosovo’s progress in several areas:
- Lower unemployment rates
- Increased support for children and new mothers
- Advancements in EU-related reforms
- Strengthened rule of law and anti-corruption efforts
According to him, these reforms prove that Kosovo is committed to European integration and is moving forward despite external pressures.
Support for Albania, Montenegro, Ukraine, and Moldova
Bislimi congratulated Albania and Montenegro on their advancement in EU negotiations and praised Ukraine and Moldova for their dedication to joining the European Union.
