EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos has described recent shifts regarding the five European Union member states that do not recognize Kosovo’s independence as “encouraging.”
Speaking during an extraordinary meeting of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, Kos was pressed by the Rapporteur for Kosovo, Riho Terras, on the Commission’s strategy to engage the five non-recognizers: Greece, Spain, Romania, Slovakia, and Cyprus.
Positive Signals from the “Five”
While Kos remained brief and did not disclose specific diplomatic details, her assessment suggests a change in the internal atmosphere within the EU.
“Regarding the five non-recognizing states, I am following what is happening, and the development is encouraging,” Kos stated.
The lack of recognition from these five nations has historically served as a significant hurdle for Kosovo’s formal integration into the EU, as key steps—such as the review of its 2022 membership application—require consensus within the Council of the EU.
Upcoming Visit to Pristina
Responding to questions regarding why she has yet to visit Pristina since taking office, Commissioner Kos explained that political circumstances had necessitated a postponement. However, she confirmed that she remains in close contact with Kosovar authorities and plans to visit soon to discuss the Growth Plan reforms.
“We have lifted the [punitive] measures and expect the Government to continue with the necessary reforms to benefit from EU support,” Kos noted.
Financial Integration and the Growth Plan
The Commissioner’s remarks come just days after Kosovo received €61.8 million in pre-financing on April 16. This payment was triggered by Kosovo’s successful ratification of the necessary agreements and the submission of its reform documents.
The Growth Plan for Kosovo at a Glance:
- Total Allocation: Approximately €882 million (2024–2027).
- Breakdown: €253 million in grants and €629 million in loans.
- Status: Kosovo currently receives the highest amount of funding per capita in the Western Balkans.
The Path Ahead
The Commissioner emphasized that the total removal of financial measures against Kosovo is a signal of the EU’s commitment to the country’s progress. The focus now shifts to the implementation of the “Growth Plan,” which aims to accelerate Kosovo’s economic alignment with the EU Single Market while diplomatic efforts continue to address the sensitive issue of state recognition.
