Kosovo’s acting Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, has stressed that the strengthening of the Serbian military is a key component of a broader political and diplomatic project that, according to him, is closely linked to Belgrade’s hegemonic aspirations toward the region and Kosovo in particular.
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Speaking at the 9th Conference of Ambassadors of the Republic of Kosovo in Pristina, titled “Kosovo in a Changing World: Security, Partnership and Development,” Kurti noted that contemporary geopolitical dynamics, including Russian influence in the Western Balkans, have made the regional security situation more precarious. According to him, the modernization of Serbia’s military capabilities is not simply a routine process but reflects a strategy aimed at supporting claims of territorial and political superiority in our region, especially over Kosovo.
Kurti emphasized that the international landscape is becoming increasingly complex and that the work of diplomats has moved beyond the boundaries of formal state representation. He said that continuous engagement is now required to build contacts and partnerships and open new avenues for the country.
Speaking about shifts in global security, the head of government mentioned tensions between major powers and developments in artificial intelligence and quantum computing. He said Russia’s attack on Ukraine had completely challenged the old assumptions about peace and stability established after the Cold War. According to Kurti, Russia’s use of military force, cyber arsenals, disinformation campaigns and political interference has exposed the increasingly complex nature of modern conflicts, which are fought not only on physical battlefields but also by monopolizing the digital space and fabricating hybrid threats.
Referring to the risks posed by disinformation, Kurti noted that foreign interference and information manipulation are reshaping diplomatic practices. He stressed that today’s ambassadors are tasked with managing narratives, combating lies and maintaining public trust by identifying and countering propaganda through concrete facts and cooperation with non-state actors on digital platforms.
Kurti then addressed Kosovo’s strategic focus on deepening relations with the United States and allies that defend a rules-based international order. He pointed out that the rhetoric of Serbian officials clearly demonstrates the continuation of expansionist projects and that Kosovo is therefore focusing on strengthening democracy, increasing its defense capabilities and expanding global partnerships.
According to him, the partnership with NATO and bilateral agreements are key pillars in consolidating the country’s security. He mentioned the trilateral military agreement with Albania and Croatia, cooperation with the United States, Turkey, the United Kingdom and other countries, as well as joint military missions in Kuwait, Belize and the Falkland Islands. NATO’s presence and role in Kosovo and the region, he added, remain essential to guaranteeing stability. In this context, Kosovo’s diplomacy carries particular weight, not only in defending national interests but also in promoting a developed and reliable Kosovo that is ready to contribute to peace and security at the regional and global levels.
The acting prime minister also spoke about foreign policy achievements, highlighting the new recognitions from Kenya, Sudan, Syria and the Bahamas during 2025, which he said had revived a process that had stagnated for several years. He said Kosovo’s passports had become significantly stronger, rising from 108th place in 2021 to 57th place in 2026. He also cited progress toward membership in the Council of Europe, an improved status in the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, the application for EU membership and membership in 15 international organizations as steps that had strengthened the country’s international standing.
On the economy, Kurti said the latest data from the International Monetary Fund forecast that Kosovo would remain the fastest-growing economy in Europe, at around 4 percent. He said exports had doubled and the ratio of exports to imports had improved from 1 to 9 to 1 to 6. Foreign direct investment exceeded €1 billion for the first time, while budget revenues and capital expenditure also increased. According to him, this progress has moved Kosovo out of the group of fragile countries and turned it into a more credible global actor.
Concluding this part of his speech, Kurti announced that the European Union had confirmed that Kosovo would receive €206.4 million in IPA funds for 2026 and 2027, most of which would be allocated to energy and environmental infrastructure, border management and the rule of law. He pledged further efforts to secure EU candidate country status and begin accession negotiations while continuing reforms under the European agenda.
Finally, he spoke about the importance of public diplomacy, describing Kosovo as a country with extraordinary potential because of its cultural diversity, technologically skilled young people and engaged diaspora. Kurti urged the ambassadors to use every opportunity to promote artists, scientists, cultural and educational exchanges, as well as initiatives showcasing the country’s values, identity and successes.
