Kosovo’s Acting Defense Minister Ejup Maqedonci has honored U.S. Senator Joni Ernst with a Distinguished Service Medal in recognition of her contribution to strengthening relations between Kosovo and the United States and her continued support for Kosovo’s Ministry of Defense and Kosovo Security Force (FSK).
Maqedonci received Ernst at the Ministry of Defense on Tuesday, alongside a delegation from the Iowa National Guard led by Major General Stephen Osborn.
“In recognition of her valuable contribution over the years to strengthening Kosovo-U.S. relations and for her continued support for the Ministry of Defense and the Kosovo Security Force, I had the honor of presenting Senator Ernst with the Distinguished Service Medal,” Maqedonci said.
During the meeting, officials discussed the Kosovo-U.S. partnership and opportunities to further deepen cooperation in defense and security.
Maqedonci said the partnership with the United States and Kosovo’s cooperation with the Iowa National Guard remain among the key pillars supporting the FSK’s professional and institutional development and the strengthening of its defense capabilities.
“The partnership with the United States and the special cooperation with the Iowa National Guard have been and continue to be among the most important pillars of the professional and institutional development of the FSK and the strengthening of our defense capabilities,” he said.
He added that Kosovo highly values the support of its international partners who have contributed to strengthening the country’s institutions and security.
“Friendship and partnership with the United States remain irreplaceable for Kosovo,” Maqedonci said.
Ernst’s visit comes as Kosovo continues to deepen its defense cooperation with the United States and the Iowa National Guard, with the partnership playing a central role in the development and modernization of the FSK.
