US congratulates Army, calls on Kosovo and Serbia to normalize relations
The Embassy of the United States of America has welcomed the formation of the Kosovo Army.
Through a statement, the US has called on the Government of Kosovo to continue close coordination with NATO allies and partners, it reports. Indeksonline.
Below is the full announcement:
The United States of America reaffirms its support for the gradual transition of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) to a force with a territorial defense mandate, as is the sovereign right of Kosovo.
Today's vote in the Assembly is the first step in the development of this capacity.
These laws do not bring any immediate changes to the structure, mission or operations of the force, but they represent the beginning of practical and ongoing work to build a transparent, multi-ethnic and interoperable force with NATO that serves all Kosovo communities. , in accordance with the ten-year transition plan of the Government of Kosovo.
We call on the Government of Kosovo to continue close coordination with NATO allies and partners and to engage in outreach work on the ground with minority communities now and throughout the multi-year process. We expect that existing arrangements with KFOR for force movements and operations in Kosovo will continue.
All shareholders inside and outside Kosovo should support and encourage the citizens of Kosovo's minority communities to participate in its security forces, for the benefit of their communities and the country.
The United States of America is committed to working with the KSF to promote professional development and organizational evolution, which will contribute to peace and stability in Kosovo and the region.
Regional stability requires that Kosovo make concerted efforts to normalize relations with its neighbor, Serbia, and we urge both sides to take immediate steps to ease tensions and create conditions for rapid progress in dialogue.
The goal: to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that will enhance peace, stability, and prosperity in Kosovo and the region, is also the highest priority for the United States. We call on all stakeholders to refocus their energies and engage seriously and constructively to achieve this goal.
