On the sidelines of the Warsaw Security Forum 2026, the Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, held a meeting with the U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO, Ambassador Matthew Whitaker, during which the focus was on advancing bilateral cooperation in the field of defense and coordinating on matters of mutual interest.
Minister Maqedonci expressed his gratitude for the continued support and contribution of the United States to Kosovo, the Ministry of Defense, and the Kosovo Security Force. He emphasized the particular importance of cooperation with the Iowa National Guard, which has been ongoing for more than 15 years within the framework of the State Partnership Program. This partnership is strengthening our capabilities through training, joint exercises, and the exchange of experience.
For his part, Ambassador Whitaker expressed his support for Kosovo’s path toward NATO integration and for the continuation of U.S. support for the development of Kosovo’s defense capabilities.
Cooperation between the two countries is also expanding into the areas of military procurement and the defense industry. During the meeting, discussions focused on the development of our capabilities, including systems purchased from the United States and the procedures initiated for the procurement of Black Hawk helicopters. The importance of supporting the development of Kosovo’s domestic defense industry was also emphasized.
Minister Maqedonci reiterated the need for support for Kosovo on its path toward NATO membership, as well as for expanding our military personnel’s access to NATO programs and schools. Discussions also addressed the further development of cooperation with NATO regarding KFOR’s presence and optimization, as well as the normalization of Kosovo’s airspace.
During this meeting, Minister Maqedonci expressed interest in exploring opportunities for cooperation based on the principle of burden-sharing, including at Camp Bondsteel and Gjakova Airport. He also emphasized the importance of Kosovo’s contribution to the International Stabilization Force in Gaza, as evidence of our country’s readiness to assume responsibility and contribute to international peace and security.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Minister Maqedonci invited Ambassador Whitaker to visit Kosovo to continue the dialogue and advance cooperation between the two countries.
The partnership with the United States remains essential for the development of our defense capabilities and for Kosovo’s Euro-Atlantic future.
