Turkey fully supports Serbia-Kosovo dialogue: FM Çavuşoğlu

Turkey supports the Balkan neighbors of Serbia and Kosovo pursuing dialogue to reach agreements as soon as possible, for the benefit of both countries, Turkey's foreign minister said on Dec. 28. 

Turkey and Kosovo will take steps to coordinate their foreign ministries, including on matters such as naming new ambassadors and the training of diplomats, Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu told a press conference in the capital Ankara alongside Meliza Haradinaj-Stublla, Kosovo's visiting foreign and diaspora minister.

Çavuşoğlu said they dealt with bilateral relations in every area during their meeting, adding that economic ties are growing but still have room for improvement.

He said a free trade agreement signed last year is a great advantage for both countries.

Stating that Turkish companies provide jobs to 10,000 people in Kosovo, Çavuşoğlu said that they aim to boost this number in the future.

Çavuşoğlu also said they discussed ways to encourage companies to increase Turkish investments in Kosovo and to strengthen the defense industry and military cooperation.

He stated that since Kosovo gained independence in 2008, Turkey promoted its recognition, adding that the efforts will continue to push its membership in international organizations.

Kosovo's integration to Euro-Atlantic institutions would contribute to stability in the region, he said.

'Turkey always stands with Kosovo'

Haradinaj-Stublla expressed her gratitude to Turkey for showing unparalleled solidarity during this year of the coronavirus pandemic.

She also stated that the country is relying on Turkey's support to access coronavirus vaccines, just rolling out now in some Western countries.

Turkey and Kosovo have long had friendly...