'We have done all our homework' to get EU candidate status: Kosovo's PM Albin Kurti
Summary
Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said the country is ready for a merit-based process to join the European Union but has not received candidate status four years after applying. He called for EU accession steps to begin and said Kosovo is pursuing judicial reforms and full normalization of relations with Serbia based on mutual recognition.Key Facts
- Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008.
- Kosovo applied to join the European Union four years ago but has not received candidate status.
- Kurti said the European Council has not asked the European Commission to prepare an opinion on Kosovo’s application.
- Spain, Cyprus, Romania, Greece and Slovakia do not recognize Kosovo’s independence.
- Kurti said Spain recognizes Kosovo passports and Kosovo’s office in Athens has gained elevated status.
- Kosovo has a Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the EU and visa liberalization.
- Kurti said Kosovo accepts EU criticism of its judiciary and prosecution and has begun reforms, including plans for a bureau to verify and confiscate unexplained wealth.
- Kurti said Kosovo seeks full normalization of relations with Serbia based on mutual recognition.
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