NATO: We are closely monitoring statements about the formation of a gendarmerie in Kosovo

NATO is closely monitoring announcements by Kosovo institutions regarding the formation of a gendarmerie, a NATO official told Kosovo Online, stating that they expect security organizations in Kosovo to continue with a cooperative approach, coordinating with KFOR in the interest of security and regional stability.

“We are closely monitoring statements by institutions in Kosovo on this issue. It is up to them to comment further,” the NATO official told Kosovo Online in response to a question regarding the formation of the Kosovo gendarmerie.

The response adds that NATO continues to cooperate with all Kosovo security organizations and to contribute to lasting security in Kosovo, for the benefit of all.

It is also stated that, under UN Security Council Resolution 1244 from 1999, KFOR ensures a safe and secure environment for all people living in Kosovo and freedom of movement at all times, impartially and in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and EULEX, in their respective roles as security providers.

The response also states that the NATO Advisory and Liaison Team (NALT) supports the development of the Kosovo Security Force, in line with its original civil protection mandate, through capacity building and the coordination of education and training.

“We expect security organizations in Kosovo to continue with this cooperative approach, coordinating with KFOR in order to contribute to security in Kosovo and regional stability, for the benefit of all communities living in Kosovo,” the NATO official added.

Two days ago, Kosovo’s caretaker Minister of Internal Affairs, Xhelal Svecla, signed a decision establishing a Working Group that will conduct an analysis and propose modalities for the functioning of the Kosovo Gendarmerie as an agency of that ministry.

A day later, Kosovo caretaker Prime Minister Albin Kurti announced that information regarding the formation of the gendarmerie would soon be released, stating that the idea has been under consideration for a long time.

In a conversation with NATO official Kevin Hamilton, Kurti said there is a need for such a structure to strengthen security and coordination with KFOR and NATO in that regard.