OSCE Chairman-in-Office Osmani visited Kosovo, urged dialogue as way forward

PRISHTINË/PRIŠTINA, 26 May 2023- The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia, Bujar Osmani, concluded his one-day visit, during which he met President Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, Prime Minister Albin Kurti, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, and visited the OSCE Mission in Kosovo.

His talks focused on recent developments and the security situation in the north of Kosovo. Chairman Osmani called for de-escalation and defusing of tensions. During the visit, he also addressed OSCE Mission's support of ongoing reforms in promoting human and community rights, strengthening the rule of law and enhancing public safety. Youth related work and the role of young people in promoting dialogue and trust building was a strong focus of the visit.

"It is essential to reduce tensions on the ground in the north of Kosovo in order to give room to the political process of the EU-facilitated Dialogue. The OSCE stands ready to continue to support the implementation of agreements reached within the Dialogue," said Chairman Osmani.

During his visit to the OSCE Mission, Osmani was briefed on programmatic activities by the Head of Mission, Michael Davenport, and other staff.

"Supporting the work of field missions is a top priority for our OSCE Chairpersonship. The OSCE Mission in Kosovo has credibility and trust with both people and institutions, which is crucial to preserving peace and stability," Osmani said. "I want to express my appreciation for the Mission's dedicated work in strengthening the rule of law, supporting democratic institutions and enabling a safer environment for all communities."

The Chairman saw the impact of the Mission's work during his visit to the Kosovo Academy for Public Safety, where together with Prime Minister Kurti he met with police cadets from all communities.

"I was impressed by the work I saw at the Academy today, training the next generation of women and men police cadets to serve their local community. A diverse police force benefits all," he said.

Speaking with participants of the OSCE Youth Academy, one of the Mission's flagship projects, Osmani praised this successful model for engaging young people in decision-making and fostering inclusive societies, which he said could be replicated elsewhere.

"If we are serious about reconciliation in this region, our young people must be the bridge to a brighter future," Osmani said. "My message was that the young generation has a critical role in building peace. As the OSCE Chairman, I will always be ready to amplify young people's voices in shaping their future."