Muhaxhiri: Kosovo cannot exert stronger pressure for new recognitions, but a major ally might

Political analyst Artan Muhaxhiri assessed that Kosovo lacks the capacity to exert pressure for new recognitions from Southeast Asian countries, but a major ally might be able to assist in that effort.

Commenting on the recent visit of Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani to Malaysia and Brunei, Muhaxhiri welcomed the opening of an embassy in Kuala Lumpur but also pointed out that it is difficult to expect new recognitions from that part of the world.

“It’s very difficult to say, because obtaining recognition is a much harder objective. There are also many external pressures, given that Kosovo is a small country with limited economic and military power. It cannot offer major incentives or exert significant pressure on states to recognize its independence. However, there may be external factors that could work in Kosovo’s favor — especially if a major ally steps in to help exert pressure on these countries to shift their position on Kosovo’s independence,” Muhaxhiri told Kosovo Online.

He recalled that one such significant recognition came from Israel.

“That was a very important geopolitical and geostrategic move, but I don't believe Kosovo has greatly benefited from it, particularly in the political or military sense, despite Israel being a major power,” the analyst said.

He gave a positive evaluation of Osmani’s visit to Southeast Asia, the opening of the Kosovo embassy in Malaysia, and the visa exemption agreement with Brunei.

“In principle, it is very good that this trend has started, because Kosovo was practically non-existent in that part of the world, and there are countries there with exceptionally high economic potential from which Kosovo could benefit,” Muhaxhiri emphasized.

He added that what matters more than the embassy opening in Malaysia is what comes next.

“There need to be many programs and ideas on how to capitalize on these relations — that remains to be seen. However, I believe Kosovo already has plans and ideas on how to make the most of these new avenues for political cooperation,” Muhaxhiri concluded.