Athens denies Kurti's statement that Greece is close to recognising independence, Euroactiv reports

Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said Greece is closer to recognising Kosovo's independence, but Athens told Euroactiv that nothing has changed.

Greece, Slovakia, Romania, Spain and Cyprus do not recognise Kosovo's independence, declared in 2008.

Speaking on Polish television on Sunday, Kurti said: “We have worked hard diplomaticly for them to join most EU countries. Greece is at the forefront of these countries, which is closer to recognising Kosovo's independence. This is indicated by the status of our office in Athens”.

Greece has a liaison office accredited by UNMIK in Pristina, while Athens has an Office for Economic and Trade Affairs in Kosovo.

In 2021, it was established in the Office of Interest, and unless it can carry the Kosovo flag out, it can issue visas. Athens also recognises passports issued by Kosovo.

But questioned by EUACTIV about Kurti's statement, a Greek government source commented: “Greek stance has remained unchanged”.

The rumors have been circulated for several months that Greece may be the first to recognise Kosovo.

In March of this year, then Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias visited Kosovo for the sixth time, meeting with Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani.

In a statement, the head of state praised Greece's continued commitment and support for visa liberalisation and Euro-Atlantic integration in Kosovo.