Escobar: U.S. Fully Supports Kosovo’s Independence and Territorial Integrity

Gabriel Escobar (Photo: U.S. Embassy in Serbia)

U.S. Special Envoy for the Western Balkans Gabriel Escobar said in the evening of Jan. 31 following a meeting with Kosovo Premier Albin Kurti that the U.S. fully supports Kosovo’s independence and territorial integrity.

“From the American perspective I want to say that the U.S. fully supports the independence and territorial integrity of Kosovo. You have shown that you are a solid partner, a good friend, and we thank you for that. We see extraordinary prospects for Kosovo and the region,” Escobar pointed out.

At a joint press conference with Premier Kurti and EU Special Representative Miroslav Lajcak Escobar also said that they had worked together to recognize the Western Balkans as an tremendous opportunity rather than a threat, and that they encourage all parties to see the region as a potential future member of the EU. He added that the dialogue that is taking place under the EU auspices enjoys full support from the U.S.

Lajcak said that they are in Kosovo to send a clear message that the EU and U.S. are cooperating and sharing the same vision of Kosovo and of the dialogue for normalizing relations with Serbia.