# Kosovo–Switzerland relations

Kosovo–Switzerland Relations refer to the bilateral relations between the Republic of Kosovo and the Swiss Confederation. Following Kosovo’s declaration of independence from Serbia on 17 February 2008, Switzerland officially recognized Kosovo on 27 February 2008. Diplomatic, economic, military, and cultural ties characterize the relationship, further strengthened by a significant Kosovar diaspora in Switzerland.

## Diplomatic relations

Switzerland was one of the first countries to recognize Kosovo’s independence. It established its embassy in Pristina on 28 March 2008, signifying its commitment to supporting Kosovo’s state-building efforts. Kosovo reciprocated by opening its embassy in Bern, with Naim Mala appointed as the first ambassador.
Initially, the Swiss government expressed reservations regarding Mala’s dual Swiss-Kosovar nationality due to concerns over diplomatic immunity. These concerns were resolved, and Mala assumed his duties, furthering bilateral ties. Switzerland has continued to advocate for Kosovo’s international recognition and integration into European and global institutions.

## Military Engagement

Switzerland plays a key role in Kosovo’s peace and stability through its involvement in the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR). The Swisscoy mission, active since 1999, consists of Swiss troops contributing to peacekeeping efforts. Currently, 212 Swiss soldiers serve in Kosovo as part of this mission.
Swisscoy reflects Switzerland’s neutral but active stance in international peace operations, emphasizing its commitment to Kosovo’s security and post-conflict recovery. Swisscoy performs various duties:
* Security monitoring and maintenance
* Logistical and medical support
* Training and mentoring of Kosova security forces
* Assistance in demining projects

## Judicial cooperation
### 2022 Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty

On 5 April 2022, Switzerland and Kosovo signed a bilateral treaty on mutual legal assistance in criminal matters in Pristina. The treaty was signed by Kosova's Minister of Justice Albulena Haxhiu and Swiss Ambassador to Kosova Thomas Kolly, following its approval by the Swiss Federal Council on 4 March 2022.
The main features of the treaty are:
* The establishment of a comprehensive legal framework for cooperation in criminal matters
* Simplification and acceleration of mutual assistance procedures between the two States
* The reduction of formal requirements, in particular the elimination of legalisations
* Precise definition of the requirements applicable to requests for mutual legal assistance
* The designation of a central authority in each country as the direct interlocutor
* Incorporation of human rights standards, with reference to the European Convention on Human Rights
* The innovative introduction of the possibility of setting up joint investigation teams
The treaty is based on the principles of the European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters and the Swiss Act on International Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters (EIMP). It places particular emphasis on data protection in the context of requests for mutual legal assistance.

#### Other aspects of bilateral relations

Prior to the signing of this treaty, the two countries were already cooperating in criminal matters on the basis of their respective national legislation. The 2022 Treaty strengthens and formalises this existing cooperation, particularly in the context of the fight against international crime.
The provision allowing the creation of joint investigation teams, introduced into the Swiss law on international mutual assistance in criminal matters on 1 July 2021, finds its first application in a bilateral treaty through this agreement with Kosova.

## Economic Cooperation

Economic interactions between Switzerland and Kosova have been growing steadily. Swiss investments primarily focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and Kosovo has emerged as an attractive nearshoring destination for Swiss companies, particularly in information and communication technology (ICT) and business process outsourcing.
Switzerland ranks as Kosovo’s sixth-largest export partner and serves as the top destination for Kosovar services. The economic relationship highlights the potential for further growth, particularly in sectors like technology and trade.

## Development Cooperation

Switzerland has been a key development partner for Kosovo, supporting various initiatives aimed at strengthening governance, fostering economic development, and improving infrastructure. The Swiss Cooperation Programme for Kosovo 2022–2025 outlines Switzerland’s strategic goals, including:
* Strengthening democratic governance and the rule of law.
* Promoting sustainable economic development.
* Addressing climate change and environmental resilience.
* Enhancing water and healthcare systems.
These efforts align with Kosovo’s reform agenda and its aspirations for regional and European integration.

## Cultural and Social Ties

The relationship between Switzerland and Kosovo is deeply enriched by a significant Kosovar diaspora in Switzerland, estimated at over 250,000 individuals. This community is one of the largest foreign populations in Switzerland and plays a vital role in fostering cultural exchanges and economic ties.
The diaspora contributes to Kosovo’s economy through remittances, which support many households and small businesses. Additionally, Switzerland has supported cultural projects in Kosovo, focusing on education, arts, and heritage preservation, further strengthening the bond between the two nations.