Press Releases
Japan-Kosovo Republic Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
April 2, 2024
On April 2, commencing at 1:40 p.m., Ms. KAMIKAWA Yoko, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting with H.E.Ms. Donika GËRVALLA, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora of the Republic of Kosovo, during her visit to Japan, for approximately 45 minutes. Overview is as follows.
- Bilateral Relations
At the outset, Minister Kamikawa expressed her gratitude for the warm messages of sympathy received after the Noto Peninsula earthquake and stated that Japan wishes to work with the Republic of Kosovo, and expressed her wish to further strengthen the good relationship between the two countries on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Kosovo this year. She also noted that Kosovo is home to Europe’s largest shiitake mushroom factory established by a Japanese company, and expressed her hope that new examples of successful investment will continue.
In response, Minister Gërvalla expressed her happiness to meet with Minister Kamikawa on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and her expectations for further strengthening bilateral cooperation especially in the economic field. - International and Regional Affairs
Minister Kamikawa stated that Japan values the great importance to stable prosperity through the accession of the Western Balkan countries to the EU, and therefore is promoting the "Western Balkans Cooperation Initiative". In response, Minister Gërvalla expressed her gratitude for Japan's support.
With regard to the relation between Kosovo and Serbia, Minister Kamikawa pointed out that Japan supports the resolution of issues through the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue led by the EU and that it is important to properly and faithfully implement the agreements reached within the framework of the dialogue and their respective obligation under its implementation annex.
Minister Kamikawa also stated that in the current difficult situation in Ukraine, it is more important than ever for like-minded countries to unite in support of Ukraine and expressed respect for Kosovo's support for Ukrainian journalists and other activities.
In addition, Minister Kamikawa explained the outcome of the Japan-Ukraine Conference for Promotion of Economic Growth and Reconstruction held on 19 February. In response, Minister Gërvalla expressed her appreciation for Japan’s support and stated that Ukraine is fighting to protect not only itself but also Europe, so Kosovo is providing support for mine clearance based on its own experience, and that cooperation by other countries is necessary regarding disinformation. Two ministers then concurred on the importance of both countries’ continued support for Ukraine.