The President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, today received the President of the Republic of North Macedonia, Stevo Pendarovski, on a working visit.

In the meeting with her counterpart, according to the announcement of the presidency office, it is said that Osmani reconfirmed his commitment to the continuation of excellent relations with North Macedonia.

"Albanians in North Macedonia, according to President Osmani, are a connecting bridge between the two states and a pillar of stability, but also of the European integration process of North Macedonia. President Osmani thanked President Pendarovski for his personal commitment to the excellent relations between Kosovo and North Macedonia. According to President Osmani, both countries have a common vision for a stable and integrated Western Balkans in the EU", the announcement states.

Osmani expressed gratitude for the support and cooperation from North Macedonia, stressing the importance of joint efforts for regional stability.

President Osmani said that with the support of friendly countries such as North Macedonia, Kosovo can advance on the path of European integration.

"In this context, President Osmani said that membership in the Council of Europe is in function of protecting the human rights of all citizens of Kosovo without distinction", the president is quoted as saying.

According to Osmani, Kosovo has demonstrated serious commitment in the process of radical reforms, so it emphasizes that it deserves to receive the status of a candidate country in the EU.

President Osmani emphasized that North Macedonia is not only a neighbor of Kosovo, but also a partner in many processes.

"The process of European integration is a priority that unites us and on this path we will continue to help each other", she emphasized.

In this context, according to President Osmani, the inclusion of Kosovo in the PfP, and then in NATO, has a strategic importance and is also a guarantee for the stability not only of Kosovo, but also of the region.

Both leaders affirmed that there is potential for deepening cooperation in the field of trade, cultural exchange, health, education, agriculture, tourism, information technology and other areas of common interest.