NATO held a meeting of the North Atlantic Council today in KFOR format, together with troop-contributing partner countries, where KFOR Commander Major General Özkan Ulutaş briefed the Council on the security situation in Kosovo and the mission’s ongoing efforts to maintain a safe and secure environment for all.
In his latest briefing to the Council, delivered virtually, Ulutaş provided an update on KFOR’s efforts to contribute to a safe and stable environment for everyone living in Kosovo, as well as to ensure freedom of movement.
NATO emphasized that KFOR operates under United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999, in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX), in accordance with their respective roles in responding to security issues.
During the meeting, the KFOR commander also addressed the process of optimizing the mission’s presence, which NATO said comes as a result of the continued improvement in Kosovo’s security situation.
“The optimization process aims to ensure that the mission remains fit for purpose. It is based on conditions on the ground, is being implemented gradually and will be fully reversible should relevant security developments require it,” NATO said.
The Alliance stressed that KFOR will continue to be appropriately equipped, trained and organized to carry out its long-term UN mandate.
According to NATO, the mission will retain the capabilities, readiness and flexibility necessary to respond to a range of possible security scenarios.
“The Western Balkans is a region of strategic importance to the Alliance. NATO’s commitment to supporting sustainable security in Kosovo and regional stability remains unwavering,” the statement said.
NATO also reaffirmed its strong support for the EU-facilitated Dialogue aimed at normalizing relations between Belgrade and Pristina, describing it as the framework for resolving outstanding issues while respecting the rights of all communities.
