Former Kosovo Interior Minister Bejtush Gashi spoke about the appointment of Ozkan Ulutash for the second time as the head of KFOR in Kosovo. He emphasized that while previous commanders from the United Kingdom focused primarily on security and direct military engagement, Turkey has taken a more liberal and cooperative approach.
Gashi stated:
“UK commanders usually concentrated on security matters and direct interventions against criminal groups. Germany and Italy had slightly different approaches, engaging more with civil society and other activities. Turkey, however, has played a more liberal role in communication, both with the local community and in its relations with Kosovo and Serbia.”
According to Gashi, Turkey’s loyalty between the two countries gave it an advantage in receiving the KFOR command for the second time:
“From the beginning of its mandate to its completion, the Turkish mission’s experience and its collaboration with the local Turkish minority and community activities created strong reports and positive impacts. This cooperation between NATO and its commander in Kosovo has enabled a more liberal line of communication between the NATO mission and Kosovo institutions.”
The handover ceremony took place yesterday at Camp Film City in Pristina, where Italian Army General Enrico Barduani officially handed over command of KFOR to Turkish Army Major General Ozkan Ulutash.
