Kosovo PM Albin Kurti says unification with Albania is not a priority right now

Pristina, November 21, 2024   - Kosovo's Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, has said that unification with Albania is not on the agenda for the time being. Speaking in an interview with Neue Zürcher Zeitung, Kurti emphasized that the focus should be on Europe, not on national issues, especially in a time of global instability.

Kurti explained that the national perspective is too narrow in today’s world, with conflicts and threats growing globally. “Now is not the time for unification. The focus must be on Europe,” he said. In light of growing concerns over Russia’s influence in the region, Kurti also expressed a strong preference for Kosovo’s future within NATO.

While Kosovo’s political path has often been a source of tension with neighboring Serbia, Kurti’s focus is now on his country’s European future. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, but Belgrade does not recognize this, and several EU countries still do not recognize Kosovo’s sovereignty.

Kurti’s government has been firm in asserting Kosovo’s sovereignty, especially in the northern regions, which are home to a large Serbian minority. His administration has taken a strong stance against Serbian influence in these areas, and this has drawn criticism from both Belgrade and the West. Despite this, Kurti remains committed to Kosovo’s path towards European integration and closer ties with the West.