Kosovo President Justina Shiroka Pula has emphasized the importance of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) in the country’s security architecture, describing its continued presence and cooperation with local institutions as essential to peace and stability.
Speaking at the ceremony marking the handover of KFOR command, Shiroka Pula said the mission had played a significant role in Kosovo for more than 27 years, contributing to the preservation of peace and stability since 1999.
“An important part of Kosovo’s history is the history of our partnership with our allies. Since 1999, KFOR has been part of this journey, and today, as our security institutions develop their capabilities and responsibilities, this partnership remains important for the country’s stability and our Euro-Atlantic perspective,” she said.
The president noted that, with support from international partners, Kosovo has gradually strengthened its security institutions, which now bear direct responsibility for responding to security challenges and protecting citizens.
She said the progress demonstrated that international cooperation had produced tangible results, while stressing the importance of maintaining close coordination with KFOR and other international partners.
“Within our security architecture, KFOR continues to have particular importance. Its presence, mandate and cooperation with local institutions contribute to overall security and public confidence,” Shiroka Pula said.
The president also expressed her gratitude to the military personnel and contributing nations that have served in KFOR since 1999. She acknowledged that many service members had spent extended periods away from their families while carrying out their duties in Kosovo.
Their contribution, she said, forms part of Kosovo’s shared history and will remain valued by its citizens.
Shiroka Pula reiterated that Kosovo’s strategic objective of joining NATO remained unchanged, expressing the ambition for the country to become not only a beneficiary of collective security but also a direct contributor to international peace and stability.
“Our strategic objective of NATO membership remains clear. We aim for Kosovo one day not only to benefit from security but also to contribute directly to it, standing alongside our allies in joint efforts for peace and security, including international missions,” she said.
Addressing outgoing KFOR Commander Major General Özkan Ulutaş, the president thanked him for his service and cooperation. She also congratulated incoming commander Major General Roberto Vergori, expressing Kosovo’s readiness to maintain close cooperation with him and all KFOR personnel.
Shiroka Pula concluded by thanking KFOR for its continued service and daily contribution to peace and security in Kosovo.
