Kosovo–Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Meeting
The Prime Minister, Hon Dr Godwin Friday, met with the Prime Minister of Kosovo, H.E. Mr Albin Kurti, to discuss Kosovo’s request for recognition as an independent and sovereign state and the potential for bilateral engagement.
The leaders reflected on the experiences of small states, sovereignty and self-determination, with the Prime Minister Friday referencing Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ own history of colonialism and the Garifuna resistance as important to the country’s understanding of independence and sovereignty.
Kosovo outlined its case for recognition, including its 2008 declaration of independence, the 2010 International Court of Justice advisory opinion, which found that the declaration of independence did not violate international law, and the ongoing EU-facilitated normalisation process with Serbia.
Prime Minister Friday indicated that he was sympathetic to Kosovo’s request, while making clear that further consultations would be required before SVG determines its position. No commitment on recognition was made during the meeting.
The discussion also identified opportunities for practical cooperation. Kosovo highlighted its growing digital and technology sector, tourism and search-and-rescue expertise, while Prime Minister Friday expressed interest in digital cooperation and outlined SVG’s priorities as a Small Island Developing State, particularly climate resilience, disaster preparedness and access to rapid financing following natural disasters.
Kosovo said it was willing to support greater international attention to the climate vulnerabilities faced by SVG and other SIDS. Both sides agreed on the value of continued engagement and exploring areas where the two small states could develop a practical relationship beyond the recognition question.
