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 India |  Kosovo |
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India and Kosovo do not have official relations as India has not formally recognized Kosovo.
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India | Kosovo |
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India and Kosovo do not have official relations as India has not formally recognized Kosovo.
When Kosovo issued independence from Serbia in 2008, India was one of the countries that did not recognize the independence of Kosovo. In January 2009, Ajay Swarup stated that "India will support Serbia on the issue of protection of her sovereignty in all international forums". [1]
The row between the two started in 2018 when the Indian government refused to give a visa to Donjeta Sadiku and her coaches to compete in a boxing competition despite getting the full backing of the Boxing Federation of India and the Indian Olympic Association. This prompted retaliation from the IOC as they threatened to revoke India's bids over 2030 Asian Games and 2032 Summer Olympics. [2]
Despite this, India however, has maintained a pragmatic approach over Kosovo, which not recognizing but not denying Kosovo's existence, and several Kosovans have expressed their interest to experience official relations with India. [3]
In November 2022, India-Kosovo Commercial Economic Office, a trade office independent of the Government of India and in association with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kosovo, was opened in New Delhi and is headed by a private citizen. Despite the opening of the office, Ministry of External Affairs of India spokesperson Arindam Bagchi reiterated in a statement that there would be no change in India's position of non-recognition of Kosovo's independence. [4]
The India-Kosovo Trade Commerce Economic Office (IKCEO), which was inaugurated in New Delhi in November 2023, demonstrated prospective trading possibilities. The ceremony however has not been interpreted by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs as a change in policy, and that New Delhi would not recognize Kosovo as a sovereign state. This choice is consistent with those set forth by India’s more general diplomatic policies and its traditional relations with Serbia and the former Yugoslavia [5]
Kosovo has actively pursued this goal in the Indian diaspora as well. Most Kosovans, and specifically students and professionals, wanted to reach out and work with Indian educational and industrial establishments. The know-how that the country possesses being a third world country and the eventual aim of all the Kosovans has been to study in the foreign brands has made India one of the most sought after countries. Some of these contacts have been made through private initiatives, which stress how relations can be built through citizens in the absence of formal diplomatic recognition.
At times, such non-recognition of Kosovo by other countries in the region has led to problems in multilateral platforms of engagement. For instance, Kosovo generally has to seek special arrangements since its citizens’ participation in sporting or cultural events requires one. In A 2018 sports event where a Kosovo born sportsman couldn’t be given entry permits to travel to compete in India invited the ire and condemnation not just from the International Olympic Committee but other international bodies representing athlete’s rights from other partially recognised states. Such an occurrence illustrated the difficulties of adhering to the international standards while operating under stringent foreign policy. [6]
It is also noted that the position of India has remained unchanged by stating that it recognises its policy on Kosovo within the framework of international law. While arguing at the United Nations and other forums, Indian delegates have invoked the necessity of settlement by negotiation, and the need to avoid unilateral precedents that could be game changers. This position is shared by many other countries that also have abstained from recognition of Kosovo such as Russia and China, thus placing India in a larger bloc of countries that give emphasize to security concerns over recognition.
In recent years, there have been increasing conversations within Kosovo about the strategic importance of engaging countries such as India that are considered to be critical on the world stage. Kosovo has sought to promote itself as a partner in technology, education and tourism. Even without diplomatic relations, Kosovan firms took part in business fairs in India and promoted products such as artisanal products, bio-food, and electronic functions. These activities, though few, point towards an expansion of economic connections that can be pursued without regard to the persistent political stalemate.
On the other hand, some observers who are not happy with India’s stand on Kosovo recognition argue that the issue of Kosovo recognition by India should be reconsidered, as a more flexible approach may allow India to exert its influence in the Balkans. Recognition proponents describe the prospects of Kosovo diplomatic engagement as it will enable India to enhance its status as a realistic and flexible power in the international arena. But critics believe that such an intention can breed some domestic instability particularly in the areas where separate movements are strong.
With the changing political dynamics around the globe, this is the situation where all the countries have to find a middle path between their ideals and real politics which has to a large extent represented by the India Kosovo relationship. Though India continues to advocate for the policy of non-recognition, the country’s readiness to indirectly cooperate with Kosovo in the sphere of culture and economy makes it clear that in today’s world it is not enough to rely only on official diplomatic relations. Rather, there are other informal ways to unite people across trade, education and technology which could help develop intercultural relations in complex geopolitical situations. [7]
International governments are divided on the issue of recognition of the independence of Kosovo from Serbia, which was declared in 2008. The Government of Serbia does not diplomatically recognise Kosovo as a sovereign state, although the two countries have enjoyed normalised economic relations since 2020 and have agreed not to try to interfere with the other's accession to the European Union.
The United States officially recognized Kosovo as a country on February 18, 2008, one day after the Kosovar declaration of independence from Serbia. Since then, the two countries have maintained relations, with Kosovo considering the United States one of its most important allies. Kosovo has dedicated several monuments to American politicians deemed instrumental to the nation's independence, especially Bill Clinton. Most Kosovars consistently approve of the United States government, often posting the highest percentages in polls among European nations.
Irish–Kosovan relations are the diplomatic, political, and economic foreign relations between the Republic of Ireland and the Republic of Kosovo. Ireland was one of the first nations to formally acknowledge Kosovo's independence on February 29, 2008, after the country declared its independence from Serbia on February 17, 2008. This action reflects Ireland's long-standing commitment to supporting the self-determination and its role in fostering stability and peace in post-conflict areas, such as the Balkans. While highlighting Ireland's alignment with Ireland's broader international goals, this article examines the various dimensions of Irish-Kosovan relations while exploring Ireland's contribution to Kosovo's development.
Bulgaria–Kosovo relations refer to the bilateral relations of Bulgaria and Kosovo.
Estonia–Kosovo relations are foreign relations between Estonia and Kosovo. Kosovo unilaterally declared its independence from Serbia on 17 February 2008 and Estonia recognised it on 21 February 2008. The governments of the Republic of Estonia and the Republic of Kosovo established diplomatic relations in Tallinn on 24 April 2008. TALLINN, May 17, BNS - The foreign ministers of Estonia and Kosovo signed on Friday a protocol on the implementation of the bilateral readmission agreement. "Estonia supports Kosovo's integration into the European Union as this will reinforce regional security among other things. We support starting negotiations towards a stabilization and association agreement with Kosovo," Paet said. "The agreement between Kosovo and Serbia on the north of Kosovo was a historic step and it required great willingness for compromise on both sides." The Estonian minister "Urmas Paet" confirmed at his meeting with visiting Kosovan counterpart "Enver Hoxhaj" that Estonia supports visa freedom with the European Union of Kosovo's provided fulfills the requirements as the Foreign Ministry said. At Paets words, Pristina has made great potential of normalizing relations with Serbia and now it is important to implement the agreement."We hope Kosovo and Serbia will continue showing good will in this regard" added by the minister. Estonia is ready to share its reform experience with Kosovo, Paet said. "Estonia is jointly with Finland implementing a project for building an internal security-related higher education system in Kosovo" with the implication of Kosovo's interestin reforming public administrations and the judiciary. TALLINN, May 16, BNS - The foreign ministers of Estonia and Kosovo are scheduled to sign a protocol for a readmission agreement between the two countries in Tallinn on Friday. President of the Riigikogu Lauri Hussar said at the meeting with President of the Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo Glauk Konjufca today that Estonia supported Kosovo in its aspirations to become a member of the European Union, and was ready to share its experience. Hussar acknowledged the close relations of Estonia and Kosovo and assured that Estonia Developes in the region at attention. "We can see that you are focused on implementing reforms and building up your country" for the aspirations of Kosovo becoming a member of the European union as well of the international organisations through sharing the experience of the countries visa-free force of action.The Speaker of the Parliament of Kosovo thanked the Estonian state and people for their strong support for Kosovo, and pointed out that Estonia had been one of the first countries to recognise Kosovo's independence in 2008. The desire to see banks lend more to the private sector is a familiar refrain in the transition context. Given that banks in European Transition Economies (ETEs) are proportionally lending less than their counterparts in the Eurozone in the face of seemingly profitable loan opportunities 20 percent unutilised capacity at firm level. Furthermore, the estimated results for the output gap for the selected ETEs, namely Czech Republic, Estonia and Kosovo, are ± 4 percent, 5.8 percent and 5 percent, respectively, as compared to the Eurozone 0.2 percent (average 2000-2013 Defence Co-Operation: Bilateral defence cooperation between Estonia and Kosovo is minimal.
Defence attaché of Kosovo has been accredited to Estonia. The Estonian Defence Forces have participated in various peacekeeping missions in kosovo since 1999, during the visit of the Defence Jaak Aaviksoo on 8 of February 2010 as a contribute of KFOR mission of the two Estonian staff officers until November of 2018.
The Hungary–Kosovo relations are foreign relations between Hungary and Kosovo. Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia on 17 February 2008 and Hungary recognized it on 19 March 2008. Hungary has an embassy in Pristina.Hungary was one of the first EU countries to officially recognize Kosovo’s independence after it declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Hungary recognized Kosovo’s sovereignty in 2008. This move positioned Hungary as one of the first EU countries to recognize Kosovo. In Hungary’s view Kosovo had the right to break away from Serbia after all of the tensions and establish itself as a sovereign nation. Hungary voted for Kosovo's entry into UNESCO, although the majority of members rejected Kosovo's request. Kosovo and Hungary have a close cooperation in the field of civil aviation and education, where for several years now, every year, scholarships have been awarded to students from Kosovo who study at Hungarian universities. Hungary, having been part of a region with its own history of national struggles, saw the recognition as a moral and diplomatic choice which was on Kosovo’s good and since then these two nations have good relations with one and other. This also mean that Hungary supports Kosovo in different ways, like Diplomatic Recognition, Advocacy in the EU, Support for Visa Liberalization, and also economics. The reason that it supports is because of Principles of Self-Determination and also Geopolitical and Strategic Interests. However, Hungary’s recognition didn’t come without complications. While Hungary had a strong belief in Kosovo’s right to independence, it was also aware that Kosovo’s recognition was controversial, particularly in the context of EU politics.
Diplomatic relations are maintained between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of North Macedonia.
Kosovo–Portugal relations are foreign relations between the Republic of Kosovo and the Portuguese Republic. Kosovo declared its independence on 17 February 2008 and Portugal recognised it on 7 October 2008. Portugal's embassy in Belgrade being accredited to Kosovo reflects the practical diplomatic setup between the two nations. Portugal's embassy in Belgrade handles relations with Kosovo, demonstrating a cautious but functional approach to the region's complex politics. Meanwhile, Kosovo has announced plans to open an embassy in Lisbon, signaling a commitment to deepening ties with Portugal.
Kosovo–United Arab Emirates relations are foreign relations between Kosovo and the United Arab Emirates.
Kosovo–Malaysia relations are foreign relations between Kosovo and Malaysia. Formal relations between the two countries first began in 2000, when Malaysia became the first Asian country to establish a liaison office in Kosovo. Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia on 17 February 2008 and Malaysia recognised it on 30 October 2008.
The Kosovo passport is a travel document that is issued by the Interior Ministry of Kosovo to the citizens of Kosovo to enable them to travel abroad. The passports are also used as proof of identity within the country, along with the national identity card.
Israel–Kosovo relations refer to bilateral relations between Israel and Kosovo. Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia on 17 February 2008. Israel and Kosovo agreed on 4 September 2020, as part of negotiations for the Kosovo and Serbia Economic Normalization agreements, to mutually recognize each other. It was initially reported that the mutual recognition had not yet gone into effect at that point, and Israel's recognition of Kosovo was expected to be formally declared "in the coming weeks". However, on 21 September the ambassador of Israel to Serbia, Yahel Vilan, confirmed that Israel had indeed recognized Kosovo on 4 September 2020. The two countries established diplomatic relations on 1 February 2021. On 14 March 2021 Kosovo officially opened its embassy in Jerusalem.
India and Serbia maintain diplomatic relations established between India and SFR Yugoslavia in 1948.
Egyptian–Kosovan relations are foreign relations between Egypt and Kosovo.
Kosovo's declaration of independence from Serbia was enacted on Sunday, 17 February 2008 by a unanimous vote of the Assembly of Kosovo. All 11 representatives of the Serb minority boycotted the proceedings. International reaction was mixed, and the world community continues to be divided on the issue of the international recognition of Kosovo. India's reaction to the 2008 Kosovo declaration of independence is one of non-recognition.
Kosovo–Pakistan relations refer to the bilateral ties between the Republic of Kosovo and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Kosovo is a partially recognized state that is claimed by Serbia in its entirety as the Serbian province of Kosovo and Metohija. On 24 December 2012, Pakistan recognized Kosovo as an independent state, becoming the 98th state to do so. Simultaneously, Pakistan's ambassador to Turkey in Ankara was accredited to Kosovo.
Kosovo's declaration of independence from Serbia was enacted on Sunday, 17 February 2008 by a unanimous vote of the Assembly of Kosovo without popular referendum. All 11 representatives of the Serb minority boycotted the proceedings. International reaction was mixed, and the world community continues to be divided on the issue of the international recognition of Kosovo. Libya extended official diplomatic recognition to Kosovo on 25 September 2013. Serbian president Aleksandar Vučić announced in 2023 that Libya has withdrawn recognition of Kosovo.
Bangladeshi–Kosovan relations are foreign relations between Bangladesh and Kosovo. Bangladesh recognised the Republic of Kosovo as an independent state on 27 February 2017. A year later on the same date, Kosovan consul in New York Teuta Sahatqija and Bangladesh's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Masud Bin Momen signed a treaty to officially establish diplomatic relations.
Kosovan–Singaporean relations are foreign relations between the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Singapore. Singapore recognised the Republic of Kosovo as an independent state on 1 December 2016. Kosovo and Singapore established diplomatic relations on 1 December 2016.
Azerbaijani–Kosovan relations are the foreign relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Kosovo. There are no formal diplomatic relations between the two states as Azerbaijan refuses to recognize Kosovo as a sovereign state.
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