The Office of the Prime Minister released a statement about the meeting held today between Prime Minister Albin Kurti and Admiral Stuart Munsch, Commander of NATO’s Joint Force Command Naples.
Kurti and Munsch discussed developments in the country and the region, as well as the overall security situation.
“Emphasizing the importance of cooperation between our security and defense institutions with the KFOR mission in Kosovo, Prime Minister Kurti expressed readiness and willingness for continuous cooperation and communication, aiming for joint work in service of peace and security, alongside the rule of law and order,” the statement said.
During the meeting, Kurti highlighted Kosovo’s goal of joining NATO, noting that the total defense budget allocated for 2023 exceeds 200 million euros, or over 2% of the Gross Domestic Product, a criterion for NATO member states.
KFOR Commander Ozkan Ulutas also participated in the meeting.
The meeting was initially reported by NATO’s Joint Force Command Naples.
“Today’s discussions focused on KFOR’s activities in support of sustainable security for all communities in Kosovo and on supporting the EU-facilitated dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade,” the statement read.
President Vjosa Osmani was also scheduled to meet with Munsch, but the meeting did not take place as the president is suffering from a seasonal flu.
“The meeting between President Osmani and Admiral Munsch was confirmed for today at 3:00 PM, but it will not be possible due to the President’s inability to come to the office because of a seasonal virus,” stated Bekim Kupina, the President’s media advisor.
Earlier in the day, Munsch also met with the Commander of NATO’s mission in Kosovo, Major General Ozkan Ulutas.
His visit comes at a time when international representatives have opposed the Kosovo Government’s plan to open the Ibër Bridge to vehicle traffic.
