The British government after Heapey's visit: Kosovo, important partner

Heapey held meetings with Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani-Sadriou, Prime Minister Albin Kurti, as well as Defence Minister Armend Mehaj and KFOR mission commander.

The British government, through an announcement on the official site, said it was a pleasure to announce to the conversationators the further dedication of the United Kingdom to KFOR.

“Expanding our commitment to KFOR underscores our firm commitment to support security in the Western Balkan region”, Heapey said.

According to Britain's Government, Kosovo is an important partner and that the United Kingdom has been a key contributor to the UN-appointed NATO force since it first entered Kosovo in 1999 as a peacekeeping force to bring peace and stability after the war.

Kosovo's “government is an important partner, with the United Kingdom being the first country to recognise its independence in 2008, and United Kingdom forces have taken a key role in preserving peace and strengthening security in the region for more than two decades”, the British Government's statement said after Heapey's visit to Kosovo.

KFOR acts as one of the leading security providers in Kosovo, with troops from around 30 countries, including Italy, Turkey, Poland and the US, as well as Great Britain. The United Kingdom contribution includes a UK-based high-size Strategic Reserve battalion-based force.