Shiroka-Pula: Membership in NATO remains our strategic objective

President of the Republic of Kosovo Justina Shiroka-Pula attended the KFOR change-of-command ceremony today.

In her speech, she described the ceremony as an important moment for a mission that has made a special contribution to maintaining peace and stability in Kosovo for more than 27 years.

“An important part of Kosovo’s history is linked to our partnership with our allies. Since 1999, KFOR has been part of this journey. Today, as our security institutions expand their capacities and responsibilities, this partnership remains essential to the country’s stability and to our Euro-Atlantic perspective,” President Shiroka-Pula said.

The president said that, thanks to the support of international partners, Kosovo had established and strengthened its security institutions. According to her, these structures now have direct responsibility for addressing security challenges and protecting citizens.

She said this progress was evidence of the concrete results of cooperation with the allies.

“Kosovo’s institutions have made progress in professionalism, capabilities and responsibilities, while at the same time maintaining close cooperation with KFOR and other international partners. KFOR remains a particularly important component of our security architecture. Its presence, mandate and cooperation with local institutions affect overall security and citizens’ confidence,” Shiroka-Pula stressed.

The President of the Republic of Kosovo expressed her deep gratitude to all the military personnel and members of the contributing countries who have served in KFOR since 1999. She recalled that many of them had spent long periods away from their families, carrying out their duty in Kosovo with dedication and responsibility.

Their contribution, she added, is part of a shared history and will continue to be appreciated by the citizens of Kosovo.

“Our strategic goal of NATO membership remains clear. We want Kosovo one day not only to be a beneficiary of security, but also a direct contributor to it. We aim to stand alongside our allies and participate in joint efforts for peace and security, including international missions, in accordance with our status and obligations as a future NATO member,” President Shiroka-Pula said.

She underscored that the change of command provided an opportunity to reaffirm once again the continuity of the partnership between Kosovo and KFOR.

“Major General Ulutaş, I once again express my gratitude to you for your service and cooperation! Major General Vergori, I wish you success in your new duty and assure you that we are ready to continue our close cooperation with you and with all KFOR personnel!” Shiroka-Pula stressed.

The president concluded her speech by thanking KFOR for its service and daily contribution to ensuring peace and security in Kosovo.