Türkiye has taken over command of NATO's Kosovo peacekeeping force (KFOR) from Italy for one year.
The handover ceremony held at KFOR's main headquarters in Pristina was attended by Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani, Prime Minister Albin Kurti, Chief of General Staff General Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu, NATO Allied Joint Force Commander Admiral Stuart Benjamin Munsch from Naples, Türkiye's Ambassador to Pristina Sabri Tunç Angılı, and many guests .
The ceremony began with the national anthems of Türkiye and Italy, followed by the transfer of KFOR command from Italian Major General Enrico Barduani to Turkish Major General Özkan Ulutaş.
President Osmani stated that KFOR has been the cornerstone of peace and stability in Kosovo and the region for over 20 years.
She emphasized Kosovo's commitment to freedom, democracy, and collective security, noting that NATO membership is not just a strategic choice but a reflection of their identity.
She added that the alliance is stronger with committed partners, a resilience shown repeatedly by the people of Kosovo through reforms and determination.
Major General Ulutaş said their priority is to ensure a secure environment and free movement for all communities in Kosovo.
He affirmed their readiness and commitment to maintain lasting peace and regional stability and expressed support for the dialogue process between Kosovo and Serbia, calling it "the path to stability."
Ulutaş previously served as KFOR commander during 2023-2024. Established under the UN Security Council resolution, KFOR began operations in Kosovo on June 12, 1999, and currently includes over 4,500 international military personnel from 33 NATO and non-NATO countries. Turkish troops have served with KFOR since 1999.
