site.btaUPDATED President Osmani-Sadriu Notes Bulgaria's Special Contribution at Every Stage of Kosovo's Establishment and Peacekeeping

After meeting with Bulgaria's President Rumen Radev in Pristina on Friday, President Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu said Bulgaria has contributed greatly at every stage of Kosovo's establishment and peacekeeping, including KFOR, the recognition of Kosovo's independence, participation in international organizations and Euro-Atlantic integration.

Radev is paying an official visit to Kosovo on December 22-23 at the invitation of Osmani-Sadriu.

The Kosovo President said her country would continue relying on Sofia's support in the future steps towards full EU accession. She stressed the importance of Bulgaria's support for Kosovo, which started back in 1999 when her country made its first commitment to peace and stability.

 Osmani-Sadriu noted that given the challenges facing Europe, it is important for Kosovo to make progress towards NATO membership, which is the only thing that could ensure lasting peace and stability in the region. She recalled that Kosovo has applied for EU accession and relies on Bulgaria's support. The closer the Western Balkans are to the EU, the easier it will be to contribute to the prosperity and security of the continent, she said. In her words, it is important that accession to the Euro-Atlantic family is on merit and is based on respect for democratic values.

Being a democratic country aligned 100% with the EU's foreign and security policy, Kosovo is adamant in its readiness to establish and nurture good neighbourly relations with all, the President said. She added that relations with Bulgaria have always been important to Kosovo: Bulgaria is a partner, an ally and therefore Kosovo is eager to develop bilateral cooperation.

Regarding the recognition of the Bulgarian minority, Osmani-Sadriu said Kosovo is a multi-ethnic state. Under the Constitution, Kosovo is composed of Albanians and other national communities without limitation and without restriction to self-identification, she said. She recalled that a census is due to be taken next year and the country will adhere to the highest democratic standards and a transparent process. Osmani-Sadriu explained that the Communities Law is amended by a qualified majority representing the Albanian majority and the minorities, she added.

Commenting on Kosovo-Serbia relations, Osmani-Sadriu said Kosovo had taken all the required steps towards de-escalation and the measures introduced against its government should be reversed as they have a negative impact, the President said.