KOSOVO TO STRENGTHEN TIES WITH MALAYSIA THROUGH ENHANCED COOPERATION

PUTRAJAYA, May 2 (Bernama) -- Kosovo is set to deepen diplomatic, economic and security ties with Malaysia, signified by the opening of its embassy in Kuala Lumpur on Friday.

Kosovo President Dr Vjosa Osmani Sadriu, who is on a four-day official visit to Malaysia beginning Thursday, announced the opening of the embassy during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Friday following their high-level talks.

“It marks a new chapter in bilateral relations built on mutual trust, solidarity and shared values,” she said, as Anwar welcomed the embassy’s establishment, describing it as a significant milestone that would further facilitate cooperation in trade, investment, education, culture and tourism.

Expressing deep gratitude for Malaysia's longstanding support, Osmani said the bond between the two nations was built not only through diplomacy but also on shared values of unity, dignity and diversity.

Reaffirming the strength of bilateral relations, she described Malaysia as "more than just a friend to Kosovo," but a “partner in our shared pursuit of peace, prosperity and progress.”

She recalled Malaysia's unwavering support during Kosovo's most difficult moments in 1999, and its early recognition of Kosovo's independence in 2008, describing these gestures as acts that carried hope and belief in the future of her country.

"The people of Kosovo will never forget that you were with us during the most difficult times in our history... and for that, our gratitude will never fade," she said.

According to Osmani, both leaders explored new avenues to strengthen bilateral relations, including enhancing diplomatic ties, boosting economic cooperation and fostering greater engagement across multiple sectors such as agriculture, energy, technology, and the halal industry.

She also expressed appreciation for Malaysia's decision to lift visa requirements for Kosovo citizens, describing it as an act of trust and friendship that would further enhance people-to-people connections.

On education and cultural exchanges, she reiterated both countries' commitment to deepen university linkages, promote student exchanges and enhance cultural dialogue, noting that many students from Kosovo are currently pursuing their studies in Malaysia.

In the area of security, Osmani said Kosovo is ready to collaborate with Malaysia in areas such as cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and disaster response, emphasising the importance of joint efforts to safeguard the interests of both nations.

She also thanked Malaysia for its continued support for Kosovo's aspirations to join international organisations, including its readiness to engage with regional platforms such as ASEAN.

In recognition of Malaysia's contribution to Kosovo's state-building efforts and Prime Minister Anwar's commitment to fostering bilateral ties, Osmani presented Anwar with the Order of Independence, Kosovo's highest national award.

Malaysia was among the first countries in Asia to officially recognise Kosovo's independence on Oct 30, 2008, and has consistently supported Kosovo's state-building efforts on the international stage.

--BERNAMA