The North Atlantic Council met today in the KFOR format, together with troop-contributing partners, to discuss the security situation in Kosovo with the mission commander, Major General Özkan Ulutaş.
During his latest briefing to the Council, which he attended virtually, Ulutaş provided an update on KFOR's efforts to maintain a safe environment for all citizens in Kosovo and guarantee freedom of movement.
KFOR continues to operate in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1244, in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and the EU Rule of Law Mission, EULEX, in accordance with their respective roles in the security field.
The KFOR Commander also spoke about the process of optimizing the mission's presence, which, according to NATO, is related to the continuous improvement of the security situation in Kosovo.
The process will be implemented gradually and will be fully reversible should security developments make it necessary. NATO emphasizes that KFOR will continue to be adequately equipped, trained and organized to fulfill its mandate, while maintaining readiness and flexibility to respond to different security scenarios.
In the statement, NATO describes the Western Balkans as a region of strategic importance for the Alliance and emphasizes that the commitment to sustainable security in Kosovo and regional stability remains unwavering.
The Alliance has also reiterated its support for the European Union-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, considering it as the framework for resolving outstanding issues and ensuring respect for the rights of all communities.
Major General Özkan Ulutaş is expected to complete his second term as head of KFOR in mid-October. He will be succeeded by Italian Major General Roberto Vergori.
