The purpose of this report is to document the achievements, challenges, and strategic objectives of Kosovo regarding its foreign affairs. The data gathered includes official government statements, diplomatic meeting records, and analysis of international engagements. The data types used in this report are qualitative assessments and quantitative metrics of diplomatic activities.
The findings show that Kosovo steered a challenging year marked by a distressing dialogue process with Serbia, sanctions/measures imposed by the European Union and the United States, tensions and incidents in northern Kosovo, the fulfillment of the long-awaited visa liberalization, and important steps regarding the Council of Europe membership. Despite difficulties, Kosovo maintained overall good ties with key allies such as the United States, Ger-many, and the United Kingdom. However, these relationships were tested by divisive statements regarding the current government’s lack of coordination with international partners. Kosovo managed to maintain somewhat positive relations with most neighboring countries, despite differences in regional policies (Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia). Additionally, Kosovo sustained partnerships with longstanding allies such as Croatia and Turkey. The current leadership in Kosovo actively pursued diplomatic engagements, pointing out key aspects of their point of view of Kosovo in 2023, like economic development, democracy, and the rule of law during visits to both European and non-European nations.
The report examines Kosovo’s foreign policy, giving a general overview followed by detailed chapters on bilateral relations, diplomatic recognition and membership in international bodies, Euro-Atlantic Integration, and the Dialogue for normalization of relations with Serbia, and the performance of Kosovo’s MFAD during 2023.