Germany’s Defense Minister Visits Pristina: Progress Needed in Kosovo-Serbia Relations

Pristina, Kosovo (BETAPHOTO/ANDRIJA IGIC)

Germany’s Federal Minister of Defense Boris Pistorius said during a Feb. 5 visit to Pristina that Kosovo needed political stability and visible progress in relations with Serbia, which was important not only for the region, but for Europe as a whole.

Pistorius said at a joint press conference with Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani that visa liberalization for Kosovo’s citizens was a good and important step, but that political, legal and economic stability was the priority now. “After the United States, Germany is one of the strongest supporters of Kosovo, from civilian and military aspects alike. It will not change in the future, and I have assured them of that,” Pistorius said.

The German defense minister said that the Kosovo Force (KFOR) would continue to guarantee stability and security, keeping up its presence in Kosovo. “The stability of the region and of Kosovo is very important for us. Europe’s history over the past 50 years has taught us that the stability of the Balkans, or instabilities in the region, have played a very important role, affecting security across Europe. It is therefore our commitment and a demonstration of solidarity to continue contributing the same way in the future as well,” he said.

Osmani described Germany as a loyal partner, traditional and historical ally to Kosovo, “staying by Kosovo’s side not only in difficult periods, but also in the process of state building.” “Germany remains our strong ally while we are strengthening our democracy and international position,” the Kosovo president said.

After Osmani, Pistorius met with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti. The visit to Pristina was the beginning of his tour of the Western Balkans, including visits to Belgrade and Sarajevo. The German defense minister is also visiting German KFOR peacekeepers in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

German Defense Minister Pistorius is visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina on Feb. 6, and a visit to Belgrade is part of his itinerary as well.