During his inaugural visit to the Western Balkans, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the alliance’s “steadfast commitment” to the security and stability of the region. He also called on Kosovo and Serbia to demonstrate flexibility in their ongoing normalization dialogue.
Rutte’s visit to Kosovo followed a prior stop in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he reassured authorities of NATO’s “unwavering” support for the country’s territorial integrity. His statement comes in response to heightened tensions caused by recent separatist moves from Bosnian Serb leaders, nearly three decades after the conclusion of the conflict in the region.
The European Union-facilitated dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia, which commenced in 2011, has yet to yield substantive progress and remains at an impasse. Both the European Union and the United States have reiterated the necessity for both parties to implement agreements reached two years ago, which include Kosovo’s commitment to establishing an Association of Serb-Majority Municipalities and Serbia’s de facto recognition of Kosovo.
The European Union has underscored that the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia is a fundamental prerequisite for their respective aspirations of integration into the bloc.
“To advance this dialogue, both parties must demonstrate flexibility, make necessary compromises, and prioritize the long-term benefits,” Rutte stated.
“Normalization would contribute to greater regional stability, increased investment opportunities, and lasting security across the Western Balkans, ultimately benefiting all stakeholders,” he added.
Rutte further highlighted the broader strategic significance of the region’s stability, noting, “A secure Western Balkans means enhanced security across the entire Euro-Atlantic area.” He cautioned against jeopardizing the progress achieved over recent decades, emphasizing, “We must remain clear-eyed about the challenges ahead. Decades of hard-won peace must not be put at risk.”
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia unilaterally in 2008, nearly a decade after the conclusion of the 1998-1999 conflict, which resulted in the withdrawal of Serbian forces following a 78-day NATO air campaign. Serbia, however, does not recognize Kosovo’s sovereignty.
NATO continues to lead the Kosovo Force (KFOR), a peacekeeping mission comprising approximately 4,700 troops from 29 countries. The alliance has bolstered its presence in Kosovo in response to escalating tensions over the past two years.
“KFOR remains fully prepared to respond to any relevant security developments,” Rutte affirmed.
The NATO Secretary General underscored that sustained diplomatic engagement remains “the only viable path toward resolving outstanding issues and securing a stable future for the region.”
