<x)

These comments were part of a debate organised by the Israeli-American Chamber of Commerce in Chicago, supported by the Jewish community of Chicago and the Albanian-American organisation, over the recognition of Kosovo by Israel and the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Kosovo opened its embassy in Jerusalem on March 14th, after both countries established diplomatic relations on February 1st. On September 4th 2020, in the White House, under an agreement on economic normalisation between Kosovo and Serbia in the presence of former US President Donald Trump, Israel's reconciliation for Kosovo recognition and establishing diplomatic relations was included.

At the opening of Wednesday's debate, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said the peoples of the two countries have historic ties, “and we hope to strengthen them, especially through economic co-operation”.

 

 

Charged at the Kosovo Embassy, Ines Demiri, said Kosovo Jews belong to the Sefardic community and were deployed in Kosovo after leaving Portugal and Spain, in the period of Inquisition.

Speaking of the history of relations between the two peoples, she said that the number of Jews had increased during World War II to the surrender of Italy.

Then 258 Jews had been deported by German forces later, and 92 had lost their lives in concentration camps. Part of them left Kosovo after Israel was established in 1948, she said.

The recognition from Israel is very important for Kosovo and breaks all taboos raised by those who do not recognise Kosovo. This recognition helps Kosovo's international position and its integration into international organisations. Israel's recognition is one of the greatest achievements by thanking the permanent ally, (United States), but also the commitment of Kosovo leaders to fulfil the obligation (to open the embassy in Jerusalem) that was reached in the September 4th agreement signed in Washington”.

The European Union regretted Kosovo's decision to open the embassy in Jerusalem. Kosovo became the third country to open its diplomatic mission in that city, promoting the reactions of Palestinian authority, some Arab League and Turkey countries, which called on Kosovo leaders “to give up this step, as said, irresponsible”.

Demiri said Kosovo and Turkey have good relations and will remain friends, but without further discussing reactions.

Kosovo declared its independence in February 2008, which has been recognised by over 100 countries in the world while opposed by Serbia and its ally Russia.