Slovakia, one of the few European Union countries that does not recognize Kosovo’s independence, will close its Liaison Office in Pristina on December 31, 2024. The decision is part of Slovakia’s broader diplomatic restructuring, which includes the closure of several other diplomatic missions across Europe.
Kosovo’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora (MPJD) confirmed the development to Radio Free Europe, stating that Slovakia will also close its embassies in Denmark and Norway, alongside consulates general in Krakow and St. Petersburg, by the end of the year.
In a statement, the Kosovo Foreign Ministry clarified that the closures are due to Slovakia’s internal reorganization of its diplomatic network. “Such restructurings of diplomatic networks in accordance with strategic objectives and limited resources are also evident in other countries,” the ministry noted.
Despite the closure, Slovakia will maintain diplomatic relations with Kosovo through its embassies in neighboring countries. The Slovak Liaison Office website assured that services for Slovak citizens would continue, albeit under a different framework.
Kosovo’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with Slovakia, stressing that relations will continue to evolve through other diplomatic channels. “Kosovo remains dedicated to deepening relations with Slovakia, either through the Liaison Office or through engagement in regional, European, and global forums,” the statement said.
Slovakia is among five EU member states – alongside Spain, Cyprus, Greece, and Romania – that do not recognize Kosovo’s independence. Bratislava maintains strong ties with Serbia, viewing Belgrade as a key partner in the Western Balkans.
