Muhaxhiri: Kurti diverts attention from the bad relations with the US and the EU with regional tour

Political analyst from Pristina, Artan Muhaxhiri, believes that Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti's Balkan tour should be interpreted as an attempt to demonstrate that, despite significant issues in relations with the international community, particularly the US and EU, he has not lost political influence.

"Kurti has many problems with the international community. He has failed to establish good relations with the US and has faced sanctions from the EU. The only way for him to improve his image is through regional visits and projects," Muhaxhiri said to Kosovo Online.

Kurti is aware that Kosovo cannot progress without the support of its allies, and in these political circumstances, Muhaxhiri claims, Kurti is trying his best to establish new cooperation with countries in the region.

"He cannot go to Washington, nor can he easily visit Brussels, Paris, or Berlin. Therefore, he is attempting to compensate by visiting countries in the region to improve his image and seek new collaborations. Such a tour is not comparable, as people in Kosovo understand that visiting Washington or Berlin is not the same as visiting Sarajevo or Zagreb. However, this is his strategy to reshape his image," the analyst explains.

The joint session of the parliaments of Kosovo and Albania is also seen as an attempt to mend strained political relations.

"When it comes to building relations with Albania, Kurti does not have a good relationship with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama. There are many political conflicts, especially regarding the Open Balkan initiative and other issues," Muhaxhiri notes.

He reminds that the Kosovo Prime Minister has made similar attempts to engage in the political sphere of North Macedonia.

"In short, Kurti has opened many political fronts, but I believe his sole goal and primary obligation must be to improve relations with the US and EU. This is fundamental, the most essential issue, because without improving these relations, nothing significant can be achieved for Kosovo in the near future," Muhaxhiri concludes.