European Council President Antonio Costa arrived in Kosovo today for a series of high-level meetings, marking his first visit to the nation since assuming his position in December 2024. The visit is taking place amidst ongoing tensions surrounding EU punitive measures against Kosovo, a central point of discussion during Costa’s engagements.
President Vjosa Osmani welcomed Costa at the Kosovo Assembly, followed by discussions at the Presidential Office. A joint press conference was held to address the media, where both leaders discussed the current political climate. Costa is also scheduled to meet with acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti later in the day.
This visit forms part of Costa’s broader tour of the Western Balkans (May 12-16, 2025), aimed at facilitating dialogue with regional leaders and to co-organize the sixth European Political Community Summit in Tirana on May 16, 2025. Prior to arriving in Prishtina, Costa visited Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he expressed concerns about “separatist actions” in Republika Srpska, highlighting the importance of regional stability.
The primary focus of Costa’s discussions in Kosovo is the ongoing imposition of EU punitive measures, which have been in place for nearly two years. Kosovar leaders, including President Osmani and Prime Minister Kurti, are strongly advocating for the immediate removal of these sanctions, arguing that they are detrimental to the country’s progress. The European Parliament rapporteur for Kosovo, Riho Terras, has also criticized the European Council for delays in lifting the measures.
Costa’s visit to Kosovo underscores the complex relationship between the EU and the Western Balkan nation. The ongoing EU measures, and the strong local reactions to them, create a sensitive backdrop for the European Council President’s visit. As the region prepares for the Tirana summit, Costa’s efforts to engage with Balkan leaders are seen as crucial for maintaining stability and fostering cooperation.
