11.03.2025 19:41
Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani stated that the time has come for her country to take its rightful place as a responsible NATO member that contributes decisively to global stability and security.
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President of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani spoke at a joint press conference held after her meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in the capital Pristina.
"IT IS TIME FOR KOSOVO TO TAKE ITS PLACE AS A NATO MEMBER"
Describing NATO as "the strongest and most successful alliance humanity has ever witnessed," Osmani noted that Kosovo is deeply connected to NATO with the warmest feelings. She stated that the time has come for Kosovo to take its rightful place as a responsible NATO member that contributes decisively to global stability and security, saying, "This people was rescued by NATO 25 years ago. Now, we eagerly await to stand shoulder to shoulder with you to defend the core values of this alliance, which has become the shield of freedom."
"NATO MEMBERSHIP IS A NECESSITY FOR PEACE AND STABILITY FOR THE REGION AND THE ENTIRE EUROPEAN CONTINENT"
Osmani continued her remarks: "Kosovo is currently contributing to stability and security and is in a position to increase this contribution on a global scale. Likewise, the world has worked to help us in our most difficult moments. NATO is built on the values that our state also relies on. Therefore, NATO membership is our strategic goal, not only for national interest but also as a necessity for peace and stability for the entire region and the European continent."
"WE AIM TO DOUBLE THE DEFENSE BUDGET"
Osmani stated that Kosovo has already achieved the goal of allocating 2% of NATO's gross domestic product (GDP) to defense and emphasized that they aim to double this rate in record time. She mentioned that Kosovo will soon start producing ammunition and drones, thus positioning itself as a strategic partner in the field of defense.
"SERBIA AIMS TO DESTABILIZE KOSOVO AND THE ENTIRE REGION"
Pointing out that Serbia continues to aim to destabilize Kosovo and the entire region, Osmani said, "The presence of NATO troops in Kosovo is not only a guarantee of our security but also a barrier against any initiative that threatens peace and stability." She added that the membership process has been slow due to the existence of four NATO member countries that do not recognize Kosovo's independence.
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