Zulfaj asks Hungary to support Kosovo’s EU candidacy

During his stay in Budapest, Jeton Zulfaj, the Republic of Kosovo’s chief negotiator for the European Union, held separate meetings with Cecília Szenes, Hungary’s deputy state secretary for security policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and András Klein, Hungary’s special envoy for the Western Balkans.

Kosovo’s EU integration process was the main topic of both discussions, with candidate status and the launch of negotiations identified as the next steps. Zulfaj stated that Kosovo’s progress should be assessed on the basis of merit, while obtaining candidate status and opening negotiations are expected to spur transformative reforms in institutions and directly affect citizens’ lives.

According to the chief negotiator, Hungary has significant opportunities to help advance Kosovo toward candidate status, which is why he requested Budapest’s active engagement and support.

During the meeting with András Klein, attention was also devoted to cooperation and security in the region. Zulfaj stressed that Kosovo is a stable partner on regional peace and security issues, while its membership in NATO and the EU would help guarantee long-term peace and security in the region.

Zulfaj also mentioned Hungary’s participation in the Friends of the Western Balkans group in July this year, describing it as a clear indication of Hungary’s increased commitment to the region. He said the move was welcome.