“NATO’s presence in Kosova remains crucial for the stability of the Western Balkans region,” says NATO’s 2023 annual report, which was presented today (March 14) in Brussels by the Secretary General of the Alliance, Jens Stoltenberg.

The report states that “NATO remains strongly engaged in the Western Balkans, as the stability of the region is of strategic importance for the Alliance“.

KFOR had a critical role in ensuring stability in Kosova with the increasing of tensions and instability in the north, the report points out, while after the attacks in May and September of 2023, the number of NATO forces in the north also increased.

“The NATO-led KFOR has continued its work to help maintain a safe and secure environment for all communities in Kosova and freedom of movement, in close cooperation with the European Union, the United Nations and other international actors. In 2023, KFOR played a critical role in ensuring stability in Kosova amid rising tensions and increased instability in the north. After violence in May and September, allies deployed nearly 1,000 reservists to the mission, providing the largest reinforcement in a decade,” the report said.

Stoltenberg also emphasized the importance of the Kosova-Serbia dialogue as the only way to maintain stability and peace in the Balkans region.

“NATO remains committed to supporting the EU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Prishtina. Dialogue is the only way to find a solution that respects the rights of all communities and building a lasting peace, which benefits security and stability throughout Kosova and the entire Western Balkans region,” the report states.

The report also highlights the Russian aggression in Ukraine and the threats the world has faced. In 2023, NATO became larger, with Finland becoming an ally, and during the beginning of 2024, Sweden was also accepted.

“Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine continues and there is a new war in the Middle East, and allies face increased competition from authoritarian states, including China. In addition, we still face a number of other threats to our security, including terrorism, cyberattacks and climate change. The world has become more dangerous, but NATO is stronger. At our Summit in Vilnius, we agreed on strong new plans to defend every inch of the Alliance territory,” the report said.

Defense spending increased in 2023 by 11%, while Stoltenberg added that “in 2024, we expect two-thirds of allies to meet or exceed the target of investing 2% of Gross Domestic Product in Defense“.

NATO contributes to peace and security on the international stage by promoting democratic values ​​and is committed to the peaceful resolution of disputes.

/a.p./