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THE Republic of Kosovo, as a new European state, aims to be part of the international community by respecting all international rules and norms. As a young demography, the people of Kosovo have endured a difficult history in the struggle for statehood, much like Bangladesh. With the declaration of independence, Kosovo is now part of the international community and continues to contribute to global peace and stability through democratic values. The story of our past is the promise of our future.

In addition to commemorating the Declaration of Independence on February 17, 2008, the month of June, exactly 12 June, holds great significance for the people of Kosovo. It marks the Day of Liberation from the Serbian occupying forces — a day of hope and the inauguration of Kosovo’s statehood foundation. The support of the international community, particularly the NATO intervention in June 1999, was one of the pivotal acts in preventing mass exodus, massacres, killings, and rapes. Kosovo is deeply thankful to the international community for this support during its darkest days — support that included Bangladesh. A special tribute for this day we pay to all heroes and soldiers, including here the Kosovo Liberation Army soldiers, for their sacrifice for the liberation of Kosovo.ÌýÌý

Before this period, Kosovo endured terrible decades marked by occupation, violence, killings, and persecution in all aspects of society under the regime of Miloševic and Serbia — a daily reality for the innocent people of Kosovo. Kosovo has never sought its destiny outside its own territory. It has always defended and defined its own path to statehood, as affirmed by the International Court of Justice in 2011.

On its path toward solidifying its international identity, the Republic of Kosovo has pursued a foreign policy of friendship, regional cooperation, and the deepening of bilateral relations with various countries. Now recognised by over 120 countries, Kosovo enjoys strong bilateral and friendly ties with many nations. Through efforts to strengthen its economy, Kosovo has achieved, in comparison to the region, the highest economic growth at over 4 per cent. Additionally, progress is made year after year in the fight against corruption, making the country attractive for foreign investments. Kosovo has also shone in sports, winning Olympic medals — something that was unthinkable only a few years ago. Kosovo is now preparing to host the 2030 Mediterranean Games.

Kosovo is currently advancing toward Euro-Atlantic integration — the only path to affirming its shared continental values. Its application for EU membership was submitted in 2022, confirming its orientation and commitment to European integration. Since January 1, 2024, Kosovo citizens have travelled visa-free in the Schengen area — a result of major national efforts and administrative reforms. Through judicial reforms, Kosovo continues to strengthen its judicial system and accountability. Notably, the country has also established an Institute for the Research and Documentation of War Crimes. Kosovo does not seek revenge but justice.

Dialogue with our northern neighbour, Serbia, is viewed as the only path to normalising relations. Kosovo is fully committed to this dialogue, especially the Ohrid Agreement of February 27, 2023. However, Serbia’s attempts to destabilise Kosovo and the wider region remain ongoing — including attacks on critical infrastructure and restrictions on citizens at border crossings last year. Serbia’s efforts to undermine Kosovo’s statehood and its destructive behaviour remain active not only regionally but internationally.

The Republic of Kosovo will continue its commitment to economic development for the benefit of its citizens and to expanding cooperation with the international community through wider diplomatic representation. Relations with Bangladesh in South Asia are unique and deeply committed, as demonstrated by our diplomatic presence in Dhaka.

Kosovo and Bangladesh, although geographically distant, are united by a shared historical thread — a legacy of liberation, resilience, and pursuit of sovereignty. Both nations emerged from turbulent pasts marked by war and immense sacrifice. Kosovo’s path to independence was shaped by the brutal conflict of 1998–1999. After nearly a decade under UN administration, Kosovo declared independence on February 17, 2008.

Kosovo’s journey has been defined by efforts to secure its place in the international community. Bangladesh officially recognised the Republic of Kosovo on February 27, 2017 — a landmark diplomatic moment reflecting not only Bangladesh’s support for Kosovo’s sovereignty but also its broader commitment to self-determination and peace.

Following recognition, Kosovo took swift steps to establish its diplomatic presence in South Asia. In 2019, the Republic of Kosovo opened its embassy in Dhaka, marking a deepening of bilateral relations. In 2022, Kosovo further advanced its diplomatic engagement in Bangladesh by launching visa and consular services at its embassy in Dhaka. The opening of consular services underscored Kosovo’s commitment to strengthening people-to-people ties and facilitating travel and exchange between the two nations.

Kosovo’s active participation in international organisations and pursuit of memberships such as Interpol have consistently received support from Bangladesh. This support is well acknowledged in Pristina, where Bangladesh is regarded as a key partner in Kosovo’s global integration efforts, particularly in South Asia.

A new chapter in Kosovo-Bangladesh relations began with the important visit of Kosovo’s minister of defence to Dhaka in May 2023. In high-level talks with Bangladeshi defence officials, both sides emphasised the importance of military cooperation.

In 2024, Bangladesh’s interim government committed to reforms aimed at strengthening human rights and democracy. This period has been referred to as ‘Bangladesh Reborn.’ Kosovo, in alignment with the broader Western democratic consensus, expressed its support for the interim government, showing confidence in Bangladesh’s democratic institutions and its people-led reforms. The government and people of Kosovo also extended their condolences and deep solidarity with the families of those who lost their lives during the movement.

Currently, efforts are underway to finalise agreements that would facilitate student and people-to-people mobility, promote cultural and educational exchange, and enhance trade and investment. Bangladesh is always welcome to engage and access the growing economy of the Balkans through its partnership with the Republic of Kosovo, which stands ready to serve as a strategic gateway to the region.

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Lulzim Pllana is the ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to Bangladesh.