Bern, 24 September 2023 (TDI): Albin Kurti, Prime Minister of Kosovo held a cordial meeting with Swiss President, Alain Berset On September 22, 2023, in Bern, Switzerland.
The primary focus of their discussion revolved around the ongoing situation in northern Kosovo and the normalization process of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, which is being facilitated by the European Union (EU).
During the meeting, the President emphasized that Switzerland stands behind the effort to make things normal. He highlighted the need to act upon the agreements negotiated in Brussels and Ohrid in the spring.
Alain Berset stressed the importance of taking credible and pragmatic steps to restart the process, including fulfilling Kosovo’s commitment to give sufficient control to Serbian-majority areas.
Furthermore, the President highlighted Switzerland’s backing for Kosovo’s desire to join the Council of Europe. This move would enable all residents of Kosovo, including the Serbian minority, to access the European Court of Human Rights.
In addition, President Alain Berset affirmed Switzerland’s commitment to a stable and prosperous Western Balkans region.
He noted that both countries already engaged in economic partnerships but there are still untapped opportunities between both countries.
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During their meeting, the two officials explored various areas of mutual interest and potential cooperation, including economic development, sustainability, military peacekeeping, and future trade.
Switzerland has strong relationships with Kosovo which is further strengthened by Switzerland’s status as the second-largest foreign investor in Kosovo.
Additionally, the Kosovo diaspora has approximately 115,000 individuals residing in Switzerland and up to 180,000 people in Switzerland having Kosovan roots.
Switzerland officially recognized Kosovo’s independence in 2008, and both nations prioritize collaboration in various areas, such as democratic governance, economic development, climate change, water management, healthcare, and migration, as part of the Swiss Cooperation Programme for Kosovo for the years 2022-2025.
