Hoti: Turkey is strengthening its influence in Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina, using the obstacles the Western Balkans face on the path to the EU

Political analyst from Pristina, Afrim Hoti, believes that Turkey is taking advantage of the obstacles that Western Balkan countries face on their path to the EU in order to strengthen its influence in the region, particularly in Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

"One can talk about neo-Ottomanism. This is Turkey's influence in the Balkans. If we look back at history, we see the presence of the Turks in the Balkans. While the Balkans are looking toward EU integration, at the same time, due to numerous obstacles they face on that path, for some countries, especially Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina, Turkey's influence is seen as a second option. Serbia is in a different position and benefits the most from it. As one of the largest countries, Turkey sees it as a genuine and most serious partner in the Balkans," Hoti said to Kosovo Online.

He notes that the relations between Turkey and Kosovo are historical, cultural, and religious.

"I believe that the relations between Turkey and Kosovo are historical. Everyone can speak about the historical aspects, as well as the cultural and religious sides, but beyond that, I also see economic cooperation and opportunities that both countries have been developing in recent decades and years," Hoti said.

He emphasizes that Turkey contributes to Kosovo in other aspects as well, highlighting the security sector.

"The Kosovo Security Force is considered one of the closest partners alongside Western countries," Hoti emphasized.