Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, warmly received the Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom, Lord David Cameron, during his first time visit to Kosovo.

Accompanied by key government officials including the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, Minister of the Interior Xhelal Sveçla, Minister of Economy Artane Rizvanolli, Minister for Communities and Returns Nenad Rashiq, Chairman of the Parliamentary Group of the VETËVENDOSJE! Movement Mimoza Kusari Lila, and Kosovo’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, Ilir Kapiti, Prime Minister Kurti extended a special welcome to Secretary Cameron in Pristina.

He expressed his delight that the year 2024 commences with a significant bilateral meeting with the United Kingdom, a friend, partner, and close ally of the Republic of Kosovo. In extending congratulations to Secretary Cameron on his new role and wishing him a prosperous New Year 2024.

The meeting underscored the significance and value of robust bilateral relations between the two nations. Discussions centered on exploring new opportunities for bilateral cooperation, aligning with shared interests, and reinforcing mutual relations to serve common goals.

Prime Minister Kurti updated Secretary Cameron on Kosovo’s notable advancements and accomplishments, particularly over the past three years, encompassing economic growth, democratic development, and improvements in the rule of law.

He discussed the achievements and obstacles faced in 2023, reaffirming his and the Government of the Republic of Kosovo’s dedication to economic advancement. This commitment extends to combating crime and corruption while enhancing citizens’ well-being through employment opportunities and suitable social policies. Additionally, ensuring the country’s security and peace, particularly in response to Serbia’s aggressive and threatening behavior, remains a priority.

Kurti expressed gratitude to Secretary Cameron for the United Kingdom’s ongoing support throughout various crucial phases, including Kosovo’s liberation, pursuit of independence, democratization, internal development, and global integration. Furthermore, Prime Minister Kurti acknowledged the recent contribution of the UK in enhancing security along the border with Serbia. This included the deployment of the initial contingent of 200 British soldiers in October last year as part of the NATO mission in Kosovo.

Secretary Cameron conveyed his appreciation for the warm hospitality during his first visit to Kosovo, marking his first trip abroad in 2024. He expressed pride in the United Kingdom’s unwavering support for Kosovo, emphasizing the decisive stance to recognize its sovereignty and independence. At the outset of the meeting, he reinforced the commitment by stating, “I am here to affirm our support for you. We are dedicated to aiding you in security, economic development, governance, and all challenges you encounter. The United Kingdom has long supported Kosovo and will continue to do so.”

Secretary Cameron’s visit marks the first trip by a Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom to Kosovo since 2016. During his visit to Pristina, Secretary Cameron was accompanied by the United Kingdom’s Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Lord Stuart Peach, and the British Ambassador to Kosovo, Nicholas Abbott.

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