NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, stated that they will continue to support the normalization process of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, as reported by KosovaPress.

“To advance this dialogue, both parties need to make compromises. This requires difficult decisions; normalization brings greater stability and long-term security for the entire region. This is the message I will continue to emphasize to all parties in the region,” Rutte said during a press conference with Kosovo’s president, Vjosa Osmani.

“Today’s presence here is a clear demonstration of our commitment to long-term security in Kosovo. NATO has supported peace and stability in the Western Balkans. KFOR liaison teams continue to support other security institutions. A safer region means more security for NATO territory. NATO will continue to play its role, coordinating with the Police and Eulex,” he added.

He emphasized that a solution for long-term peace is political. “We are ready to respond to any security developments, and in this sense, we hope to see deeper cooperation between Kosovo’s institutions and KFOR. NATO will continue to play its role in coordination with the Police and Eulex. The solution for long-term peace is political. In this regard, NATO will fully support the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina, led by the EU. This is the only way to resolve unresolved issues and ensure a stable future,” he said.

During the conference held on Tuesday in Pristina, the NATO chief was asked if their approach regarding the transformation of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) into an army had changed. “The mandate is for the KSF to have what it needs to be effective in its humanitarian role here in Kosovo. This is the mandate that NATO has to help the KSF become better and to be a strong humanitarian force,” Rutte said.