With INA for Coffee: A Diplomatic Conversation with H.E. Martin Berishaj, Kosovo’s Ambassador to Croatia

By Ina Stašević from Croatia/Europe

The Republic of Kosovo is a small country with only two million inhabitants. It was once a province of Yugoslavia, and then the Republic of Serbia. Kosovo finally became independent in 2008. Are you optimistic about the economic development of your country?

The Republic of Kosovo may be a small country with two million inhabitants, but its potential far exceeds its size. Since independence in 2008, Kosovo has laid the foundations of a modern and dynamic economy, and today we can proudly say that we are recording continuous economic growth and increasing recognition on the international scene. Our advantage lies in a young, educated and innovative population, a rapidly developing information technology sector, strategic infrastructure projects and natural resources. All this makes Kosovo attractive for investors and a key player in the region. Although there are challenges, we see them as opportunities. Kosovo is committed to reforms, digitization and strengthening of international economic relations. Our goal is not only economic growth, but long-term sustainability and competitiveness. In this spirit, optimism is not only necessary - it is based on a clear vision and strategic moves that lead Kosovo towards an even stronger and more prosperous future.

Does the EU see the Balkan countries as a threat to European stability?

The EU does not see the Balkan countries as a direct threat to European stability, but it is aware that instability in the Balkans could have serious consequences for the security and prosperity of the wider region. While the EU supports the integration of the Balkans through the enlargement process, which includes political, economic and social reforms in the candidate countries, the EU itself also recognises the specific challenges facing the Balkans, including ethnic tensions, political instability, corruption and the influence of external actors such as Russia and China. Over the years, the EU has continued to invest in stabilising the Balkans, but with the emphasis on each country meeting the criteria for EU membership, thereby ensuring long-term political and economic stability. However, the EU continues to face challenges related to the policies pursued in some Balkan countries, particularly in the context of democratic institutions, the rule of law and human rights. Instability in these areas could pose a threat to Europe’s wider security environment. Although the EU does not consider the Balkan countries a threat in the traditional sense, the region still requires attention, support and reforms to ensure the stability that is crucial for all of Europe.

What can you offer foreign investors in the economic development of the country?

Kosovo offers exceptional opportunities for foreign investors, not only because of its strategic position in the heart of the Balkans, but also because of its wealth of resources and diverse sectors waiting to be developed. Kosovo offers a unique combination of cultural and natural heritage, which is the basis for the development of sustainable tourism and an attractive investment destination. For foreign investors, Kosovo offers several key advantages. Kosovo has made significant progress in adopting laws that support investment, including tax breaks for foreign investors, extremely competitive tax rates and expedited administrative procedures. The business climate is favorable for small and medium-sized enterprises, and investors can expect a quick return on investment. Kosovo has rich natural resources, including mineral wealth, energy, and extremely favorable conditions for agricultural production. These areas, together with infrastructure projects, create enormous opportunities for industrial development and production. Kosovo has signed trade agreements with the EU and numerous other countries, which makes it very attractive for international trade and distribution. Given its favorable geopolitical position, Kosovo can be considered an entry point for expansion into EU markets, but also into the markets of Southeast Europe.