The American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo organized a virtual discussion with General Wesley Clark, former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO forces in Europe and honorary member of the American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo.
This event was organized in commemoration of the 26th anniversary of NATO’s intervention in Kosovo and the 21st anniversary of the founding of the American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo.
In the conversation with the Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce, Arian Zeka, Clark said that Kosovo holds a very important strategic position, offering early warnings of threats to regional stability in the Western Balkans.
“The world is watching Kosovo, and the best way to strengthen its security is through economic development and investments, especially from the United States,” said the American general.
Addressing Kosovo’s role in regional and global issues, General Clark emphasized the fundamental importance of the rule of law, urging Kosovo to “be proud of it, strengthen it, and use it to build investor trust.” He called for investments in infrastructure and energy, highlighting Kosovo’s abundant lignite reserves, while advocating for the country’s digital transformation, improving tax systems, connecting to broadband internet, and enhancing cybersecurity to combat disinformation and external subversion.
Speaking about improving the business climate, General Clark encouraged Kosovo to embrace regional cooperation with neighbors such as Albania, North Macedonia, and even Serbia, emphasizing that, “Ultimately, Serbia will have to accept your independence, and economic cooperation will be inevitable.”
He also stressed the significant role of the American Chamber of Commerce in this journey as a generator of policy proposals that promote foreign direct investments.
He urged Kosovo’s leaders to follow transparent governance, political unity, and to maintain a strong balance between the government and the private sector. “Governments alone cannot drive growth—you need the private sector, especially in information technology and services, where Kosovo’s talent and language skills can shine.”
Finally, Clark spoke about the importance of bringing the youth back to Kosovo, to contribute their ideas for the country’s development and future.
