What are the prospects for bilateral cooperation?
To give an example, the People's Republic of Bangladesh recognized us only a few years ago and now we have a very close relationship. We want similar relations with Nepal as we have a lot of common experiences and traits to share. Both countries are landlocked. The systems of both countries are built on preserving cultural values and multi-ethnic structures of our societies. Both countries` peoples and landscapes are stunning; both have a young and dynamic population. We have opportunities for institutional cooperation, especially in the fields of education, economy and more specifically agriculture. As a new country, we are very successful in sports as well. We can share our experiences with Nepal. Does Kosovo want to become a member of the European Union? Absolutely, becoming a member of the European Union is among the top priorities of our country. The integration of Kosovo together with other Western Balkan countries into the European Union is very important for peace, stability, economic development, and full reconciliation in the region. We submitted our application for membership on December 15th, 2022. We are expecting the EU to grant us the candidate State status in the near future. We believe that our previous efforts in terms of drafting the modern legislation and opportunities to utilize the experiences and knowhow of our friendly countries will contribute to accelerating our membership process. Membership will require more efforts on our part and greater readiness and consent on the part of EU member-states and other relevant bodies. Membership of Kosovo and other candidate States in the European Union will contribute to peace, unity, and a brighter future of Europe. Has there been any attempt to establish bilateral relations? Since the proclamation of the independence of the Republic of Kosovo, we have been in contact with a variety of decision-makers, influencers and activists such as your country's political leaders, business people, civil society leaders, athletes and journalists, etc. These meetings were also aided by international platforms, of which we are a part. We get to know each other better every day. It is important to have diplomatic relations, but more important is to have result-oriented cooperation. Based on our own example, I can say that we have established very good dialogue and developed very good relations in some areas with some countries that still don`t recognize an independent Kosovo. Of course, it will be very valuable to be recognized by Nepal, but at the same time, we value creating strong bonds and a solid foundation for quality cooperation. Are you hopeful of Nepal recognizing Kosovo as an independent country? Yes, that is not only our wish but reasonable expectation that Nepal in near future will recognize the Republic of Kosovo. Because Kosovo's independence is a reality and irreversible. Let me emphasize that more than 110 countries have recognized the independence of my country. A large number of these countries are geographically close to our country and they realized that the Republic of Kosovo’s case is unique and cannot be used as a precedent for other cases. In addition, they considered peace and stability of the region as well as their own peace and stability. On the other hand, it should also be remembered that the International Court of Justice with its advisory opinion in 2010 confirmed the legitimacy of the declaration of the Independence of Kosovo. Although we always receive good-faith feedback from Nepal, unfortunately, we haven’t gotten official recognition from Kathmandu. Nepal is an independent, sovereign, free and egalitarian country, so it determines its foreign policy preferences. We all know that countries have their own sets of priorities. As I have mentioned in my earlier appearances in Nepali media, our hope is that Nepal officially recognizes Kosovo as soon as possible and that the silhouette of your flag is reflected on the Kosovo government building with the words "Thank you Nepal". The sequel will be even better. As Kosovo is celebrating its 15th Anniversary of Independence, what is your message? On February 17, we are celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Kosovo. Despite some challenges, we Kosovars are immensely proud of the progress of our country. In 15 years, the Republic of Kosovo has made remarkable progress in every field. Today, we have a functional and democratic country with a steadily growing economy. We have many reasons to be more hopeful for a better future. Like Nepal, Kosovo is a very beautiful country. Like the Nepalis, Kosovars are very friendly and beautiful. It would not be fair to only make good wishes for our own future. We need to make wishes for our world and work in that direction. Ending wars and resolving disputes would be very important for the future of our world. We must devote our energies to friendships, sustainable development and protecting our planet. Vengeful spirits and destroyed nature cannot be corrected with millions of prayers. We must instill love in people both at home and in the world. I'm sure all Nepalis and Kosovars have these wishes, but it is essential that the whole world be convinced of this. May every anniversary bring goodness to us and to all people in the world.
