Kosovo Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Fact Sheet March 17, 2016 More information about Kosovo is available on the Kosovo Page and from other Department of State publications and other sources listed at the end of this fact sheet. U.S.-KOSOVO RELATIONS The United States established diplomatic relations with Kosovo in 2008, following its declaration of independence from Serbia. The United States has been joined by over 100 countries in its recognition of Kosovo as an independent, sovereign state. The United States remains committed to working with the Government of Kosovo and international partners to strengthen Kosovo’s institutions, rule of law, and economy and build a democratic, law-abiding, multi-ethnic, tolerant, and prosperous country. U.S. policy priorities are: ensuring improved rule of law and governance that meets citizens’ needs; ensuring Kosovo has sustainable, inclusive economic growth that supports its stability and integration with Europe; ensuring Kosovo contributes positively to regional stability, including by legally transforming its security sector, countering violent extremism, promoting minority rights, and integrating into Euro-Atlantic structures.

In 2008, the United States became a member of the International Steering Group (ISG), contributing staff to the International Civilian Office (ICO), which supervised the Government of Kosovo's implementation of the Comprehensive Settlement Proposal, commonly known as the Ahtisaari Plan. In September 2012, the United States joined our ISG partners in recognizing the enormous progress Kosovo has achieved, including upholding its commitments to implement the provisions embodied in Special Envoy Ahtisaari's plan and enshrining these into Kosovo law, thereby declaring the end of supervised independence and dissolution of the ICO. Since 1999, the United States has contributed troops to the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR), tasked with maintaining a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all of Kosovo’s citizens. Since its deployment in 2008, the United States also contributed staff to the EU Rule of Law Mission (EULEX), marking the first time the United States participated in an EU Common Security and Defense Policy mission. EULEX works with the Government of Kosovo to strengthen rule of law throughout the country and to monitor, mentor, and advise Kosovo police, justice, and customs officials.

Since 2011, the European Union (EU) has facilitated a dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo on practical issues to improve the lives of citizens and advance them in their European perspectives, a process which the United States supports. On April 19, 2013, the Governments of Kosovo and Serbia concluded a landmark first agreement on normalization of relations, which affirms the primacy of Kosovo’s legal and institutional framework throughout Kosovo’s territory, and provides the basis for substantial local self-governance in Kosovo’s majority Serb north. The EU continues to facilitate talks on implementing the agreement, and on related normalization issues. On May 5, 2014, Kosovo and the EU jointly declared negotiations on a Stabilization and Association Agreement complete, a key step on the path to membership in the European Union. The agreement was signed in October 2015, and ratified by the Kosovo parliament on November 2. U.S. Assistance to Kosovo U.S. Government assistance aims to help Kosovo become a stable, democratic, and economically viable country within Europe, offering equal opportunity and protections to all its citizens. Fact sheets on U.S. assistance to Kosovo can be found here . Bilateral Economic Relations U.S.

investors in Kosovo are involved with projects in the construction, energy, health, IT, and real estate development sectors. Kosovo has been designated as a beneficiary country under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, which promotes economic development by eliminating duties on approximately 3,500 products imported from Kosovo. Kosovo's Membership in International Organizations Kosovo joined the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank in 2009, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in 2012, and the Council of Europe’s Development Bank in 2013. It most recently joined the Council of Europe's Venice Commission, the International Olympic Committee in 2014, and the World Aeronautical Sports Organization and European Athletics Association in 2015. It is not a member of the United Nations. It has a number of diplomatic missions and consular posts worldwide. Bilateral Representation The U.S. Ambassador to Kosovo is Greg Delawie ; other principal embassy officials are listed in the Department's Key Officers List . Kosovo maintains an embassy in the United States at 2175 K St.

NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC, 20037 (tel. 202-380-3581). More information about Kosovo is available from the Department of State and other sources, some of which are listed here: About Republic of Kosovo - Who Recognized Kosova? The Kosovar people thank you - Who Recognized Kosovo and Who Recognizes Kosovo Home News Statistics Wall of Independence State Symbols About Kosovo About About Republic of Kosovo Kosovo declared independence on the 17th of February 2008. The small south east European state sits between Albania, Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro. The capital of the Republic is Prishtina, a city of around 500,000 people. The population of Kosovo exceeds 2 million. Kosovo is a democratic, multi-ethnic and secular Republic, that incorporates into its Constitution the UN Special Envoy, Martti Ahtisaari, Comprehensive Proposal for Kosovo Status Settlement. This plan ensures that the Constitution of the Republic protects and guarantees rights for all of Kosovo citizens. The support of this proposal by Kosovar people shows readiness to move on, forgive and build.

Kosovo is a state that is moving towards European integration, and will eventually become a member of the European Union. Kosovo has historically, culturally and socially been part of Europe. The ancient kingdoms that stood there were at the center of European history well over 3,000 years ago. Later on, as new world powers emerged and the world changed, again the nations of south east Europe forged the future of this continent. In more modern times, Kosovo ended up as the least developed part of Yugoslavia, slowly moving towards high unemployment and unequal opportunities for Kosovar Albanians. This, coupled with nationalistic policies that broke up Yugoslavia, culminated in the Kosovo - Serbia war of 1997-1999. Today, having declared independence, Kosovo has chosen the path towards Europe. Independence, and the explicit and implicit recognition by the world, have helped set Kosovo on the right course. Suggested Reading Numerous books have been written on Kosovo and its history. Although most of the English language material available today fails to explore and narrate the history of Kosovo in pre-Roman times, the following books are a good and reliable source of information for the recent history of the small South European state and its inhabitants.

Kosovo: Kosovo Facts, Kosovo Flag -- National Geographic Kosovo Facts Flag Map Kosovo became a nation when its parliament declared independence from Serbia on February 17, 2008. The United States and many European countries have recognized Kosovo's independence, while Serbia and some of its allies, most notably Russia, have denounced the declaration as illegal. Kosovo, which was part of the former Yugoslavia, had been run by the United Nations and NATO since 1999, when Serbian forces were ousted after a U.S.-led NATO air war was launched to end Serbia's crackdown on ethnic Albanian separatists. About 10,000 people were killed and nearly one million others were driven from their homes during the conflict. Located in southeastern Europe, Kosovo is landlocked and roughly the size of the U.S. state of Connecticut. Its name refers to a place outside the capital, Prishtina, and loosely translated it means "field of blackbirds." Much of Kosovo's terrain is mountainous, with the highest peak, Gjeravica, rising 8,714 feet (2,656 meters) above sea level. Kosovo has two main plains and several notable rivers and lakes.

The climate is continental with warm summers and cold and snowy winters. About 90 percent of Kosovo's two million people are ethnic Albanians, most of whom are Muslim. The remaining 10 percent are mainly Orthodox Christian Serbs living in northern Kosovo, near the border with Serbia. Kosovo was the site of a famous battle between Serbs and Turks in 1389 and is often described as the birthplace of Serb identity. Ethnic Albanians say they are the descendants of the ancient Illyrians, Kosovo's first inhabitants. When Kosovo's parliament first declared its independence, in 1990, Albania was the only country to recognize it. In the 1990s poor economic policies, international sanctions, limited access to trade and finance, and ethnic conflict severely damaged Kosovo's economy, and it now has one of the poorest economies in Europe. —Text From National Geographic Atlas of the World, Eighth Edition Pristina travel guide - Wikitravel Talk[ edit ] The main language you will hear in the street is Albanian . English is widely spoken. Most of people from Kosovo, especially young people, speak at least a little English so you can more than likely get by.

Navigating around the city is easy - the city centre is small and walkable. Serbian is Kosovo's other official language, but it is seldom heard on the streets in the capital. German is easily the next most widely spoken language. Ties between the Kosovo Albanian diaspora in Germany and Switzerland and Kosovo are very strong; many older Kosovo Albanians have worked there as guest workers in the past. By plane[ edit ] The easiest way to get to Pristina is by plane. There are direct flights to Pristina International Airport ( IATA : PRN) [2] from London, Zurich, Geneva, Gothenburg, Copenhagen [3] , Vienna, Hamburg, Hannover, Cologne, Dusseldorf, Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Stuttgart, Bremen, Verona, Ljubljana, Budapest, Tirana, Istanbul and Oslo. There are low-budget flights to Pristina from Liege , Belgium and with Easyjet from Switzerland. There are cheap connecting flights via Tirana and Ljubljana , but also from most of German airports. UAE-based Air Arabia flies twice a week from Sharjah, connecting Pristina to the Middle East.

If you arrive at Pristina airport - small, haphazard but recently modernized and efficient in a Balkan kind of way - you should get from the plane to the outside world within 15 minutes. The city itself is about 25 minutes away by car. The many taxi drivers outside the airport will quote you 25-30€ for the trip but 15€ is what you really should pay. Insist on the price and walk away if the driver won't agree. You can also call a local taxi dispatch agency beforehand, and have a driver waiting for you for €15 (plus the price of the phone call). If you pretend to be waiting for a lift from someone else they'll compete with each other down as far as 5 Euros, but it hardly seems fair. There is a not very frequent shuttle service from the nearby Skopje Airport leaving the airport at 13:15 on Sun, Mon and Thu (as of Aug 2013). Price is €10 one way. Look for the sabagroup minibus in the parking lot.

To confirm the timetable visit their website [4] By bus[ edit ] From Albania , there are several daily direct bus connections to Pristina, from Tirana (€ 15), and Durres (€ 16). In Tirana the bus office and stop is right behind the Hotel Internation. As of Dec 2011, there are two busses daily, at 06:00 and 15:00, and a ride takes approximately 6 hrs. There is no formal bus station in Tirana. There are also direct bus links from most cities in Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Turkey, Macedonia, Bosnia, and Montenegro. (As of 15th July 2012) From Podgorica in Montenegro there is a daily night bus at 9:30PM that runs via Peja and arrives in Pristina at 5AM - €16. There is one bus every night that runs from Pristhina to Ulcinj, Montenegro with stops in Peja, Prodgorica and Bar. The buses leave at 7PM from both Pristhina and Ulcinj.

The trip is €20 round trip and take 9 hours. From Skopje in Macedonia there are buses at 0600, 0800, 0900, 1010, 1100, 1145, 1230, 1320, 1400, 1500, 1545, 1630, 1700 and 18:10 hrs [as of May 2014]. Tickets cost 320 MKD (just over €5) The Prishtina bus station is quite a safe place to await sunrise (I was there on a Sunday morning). The bus station is not far away from the city center and can easily reached by foot, but if you want to take a taxi, the trip should cost you 1,5-3€ (minimum charge is 1,5€). The drivers near the bus station will quote you 5€ but that is a ripoff. Walk a bit further away from the station and take one of the taxis there - and make sure the meter is on.

From Serbia there are several direct buses from Belgrade run by Kosovo Albanian companies, costing around 2000 dinar, stops depending on the route in Niš or Kruševac . You can check the timetables at the Belgrade bus station website at . Bus tickets can be purchased from the БАС bus station next to the train station in Belgrade. Buses leave at 5:45, 12:00, 13:30, 16:00, 16:30, 21:30, 22:00 and take 6-7 hours. Adio Turs run two buses daily from the main bus station in Niš at 9:30 and 18:00. A one-way ticket costs 870 dinars. Ask for the bus to Gračanica (a Serb-majority town near Prishtina) and ask the bus driver to stop at Prishtina (otherwise, the bus will go straight past!).

There are twice daily mini-buses from Niš , they cost 600 dinars (about $10) and the guys at Niš Hostel ( ) will help you get in contact with organizers, even if you aren't sleeping there, as it is necessary to book in advance (information dates from October 2009). If entering direct from Serbia, be aware that you need to leave by the same way that you came in so that you get Serbian entry/exit stamps (see note under Kosovo ). There is also a bus service from Sarajevo (via Novi Pazar; Buy ticket to Novi Pazar on 10PM bus, the bus continues to Prishtina, tickets available onboard,i.e.

the ticket Novi Pazar-Prishtina have to be bought on the bus, but after Novi Pazar; it is possible to buy the ticket Novi Pazar-Prishtina on the bus Sarajevo-Novi Pazar, it is the same bus that then continues to Prishtina; you can pay in euro, serbian dinar or bosnian mark); so from Sarajevo to Novi Pazar you buy the ticket for that trip (15 euro one way and 22 euros return - return has to be within a month)and after Novi Pazar you buy the ticket to Kosovo (7euros to Prishtina one way). You arrive in Novi Pazar at around 5.30. At 5.45 there is one bus that heads towards Skopje (Macedonia)with stops in Mitrovica and Prishtina as well as sometimes along the road (7/8 Euros is the ticket to Prishtina - the bus will stop on the road outside of the main bus station). It passes at the EULEX patrolled border post in North Kosovo, which might be quicker and more preferable.

At 6.am there is a bus from Benko tours that leaves Novi Pazar direction Kosovo (final destination is Prizren). The bus used to pass through North Kosovo (only Serbian border post) - there are no security issues,even after July 25,2011, but when there is heavy snow the bus will not be able to the trip. In that case, you have to do the alternative route (if the weather permits) over Rozaje pass in Montenegro and Pec/Peja - bus to Rozaje from Novi Pazar at 9.30a.m. (4,50€) and then with taxi to Peja/Pec bus station (taxi will cost around 30 euros), in Peja/Pec every 20 minutes buses to Pristina (4€). Overall the trip Sarajevo-Novi Pazar-Prishtina over Mitrovica lasts around 11 hours and costs around €22 (one way - return is a bit cheaper.) The bus should be in Prishtina around 9 a.m. and continues to Prizren.

Advantage of passing through North Kosovo (non Eulex border) is that you enter Kosovo via Serbia, which might save you trouble if you exit Kosovo via Serbia. Whether this is important very much depends on the political climate and on the agreements between Belgrade and Prishtina. Alternatively,if you pass through Montenegro,you can ask Kosovo police not to stamp the Kosovo entry stamp in the passport as you have to exit via Serbia. Even better,though,is if you use your ID cards when travelling to and from Kosovo (however, Kosovo only accept biometric ID cards, meaning Austrians, French, Poles and some others need a passport) By train[ edit ] There are trains which travel from Macedonia and Serbia to Pristina. These take long to get there. See Kosovo#By train Get around[ edit ] City buses are the preferred method of local travel. They run on set routes and cost next to nothing, 40 or 50 cents a trip. It is usual to pay when you get in so try to have some change. The collector will come for the money after you have sat down. Minibuses were replaced by city bus since Oct. 1st 2006.

For detailed maps and timetables, visit [5] Taxis are readily available but more expensive. Make sure your driver has a meter in his vehicle. No trip around the centre or from the centre to Dragodan / Arberia, Valenia, Sunny Hill, etc. should cost more than 2-3 €. The minimum charge is 1,5€. The roads in Pristina (and in general throughout Kosovo ) are pretty bad, but the government is doing a lot in improving that. A lot of times you will be stuck in traffic due to road repairs. This is a result of a number of factors such as: they were never especially good, Yugoslav tank treads and UCK mortars fired at those tanks did nothing to help the situation, and NATO sealed the deal in '99 with its stealth bombings and armoured convoys. Since then, UNMIK and the Provisional Institutions of Self-Government (PISG, Kosovo's nascent government) have simply not had the money to invest in infrastructure. Two or three of the main roads that make up the major road network have been repaved. Some roads have have disintegrated to the point that they are pretty much just dirt and gravel.

See[ edit ][ add listing ] Library of the University of Pristina Don't miss the Pristina Ethnographic museum tucked back in the old town streets about 5 minutes walk from the main museum. It's been creatively curated, with video and music, and is housed in two stunning eighteenth and nineteenth century houses, one kept as it would have been lived in, the other with 'the room of birth', 'the room of death', costumes, and beautiful traditional jewellery with enthusiastic guides. The national museum, in an Austro-Hungarian style building is free Check out the mosques on Nazim Gafurri Street including Jashar Pasha Mosque A couple minute's walk from the Grand Hotel Pristina is the library of the University of Pristina. It looks like it is constructed of massive concrete Lego bricks and then covered with chain mail. It is certainly worth a look. To see the city from street-level is best: you could start in front of the three-storey portrait of Bill Clinton, and stroll past the university to the Grand Hotel. Follow Nena Tereze (Mother Teresa) street towards the Skenderbeg monument and the new Government Building, then point yourself toward the historic mosques and the old quarter and market.

You could also visit the park dedicated to now-deceased President Ibrahim Rugova. Stop off regularly at one of the cafes that are the heart of Kosovo's social, political and business life, and drink a wonderful makiato (the best outside of Italy). Huge oak forest beyond Germia park, adjacent Pristina. Out of the city, you can refresh and stretch your legs in Gërmia Park. During the summer, the lake-sized swimming pool here is a hot spot for families and young people, but year-round the park itself offers grassy spaces to relax or kick a ball around, and a network of trails through the dense woods perfect for dog-walking or drunken hide-and-seek tournaments. A couple of restaurants at the top of the park have good food and nice views. Also interesting to check out the cluster-bombed police bunker, just up the road from the best restaurant. Serbian Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas. Nena Tereze Cathedral (Katedralja Nene Tereza), Rruga Justiniani, Prishtinë 10000, Kosovo. Pay 1€ to get to the top of the bell tower and enjoy the panoramic view of the City.

edit Serbian Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas is located in Shkodra Street. It was built in 1833 on the foundations of an older church building. Desecrated and vandalized in 1999 and again in 2004, the church is now partially renovated, with many scars still visible, and it is open for public. Entrance is free. To get to the church, first go to Shadërvani Square on the north end of the pedestrian zone, go past the Kosovo Museum, King's Mosque (Xhamia e Mbretit) and Sami Frasheri High School, and then at the Archives building turn right into Haxhi Zeka street. Keep going up the street, and turn left in the third street (Shkodra Street). Serbian Orthodox Monastery Gračanica - UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the eponymous village (Alb. Graçanicë) 17 km south-east from Prishtina. Do[ edit ][ add listing ] If you like coffee, and have a massive amount of time on your hands, Pristina is the city for you.

There are cafes absolutely everywhere, and most of them are packed through the warm season with fashionably-dressed young people, dropping a euro a day to keep themselves amused. Unemployment / underemployment is pervasive throughout Kosovo, and tends to affect people from all walks of life and different levels of education. Which means that dude in the sleeveless tshirt with streaked-blond hair at the table beside you could just as easily be an economist as a farm kid from Kamenicë, so learn to say "Mirëdita" with a passable accent and feel free to start a conversation. What to order? "Macchiato" (espresso with hot milk, similar to a latte). Most cafes have free wifi. Privately-owned outdoor swimming pools are springing up around Kosovo, some just outside the city and worth the euro to cool off in the summer. Shopping-wise, Pristina is full of good bargains but low on selection. Silver is sold in the old quarter and is a pretty good value; Albanians are known throughout the former Yugoslavia as silversmiths. Do as the locals do: In Pristina, this means korza.

In the evenings, when it's warm, a large proportion of the population heads out into the streets and promenades, between cafes or in with no particular destination. The objective is to see and be seen, chat with friends, and take in as much fresh air as possible before the horrific winter descends. Note that 53% of Kosovo's population is under the age of 25, so most of the people on the street around dusk are teenagers and people in their early twenties. Stay out late because the streets are safe and Albanians love foreigners. Also go out to bars and cafes, as they are usually filled but make sure you drink some "Peja" beer (Key word PEJA) For clubs there are Fullhouse and Duplex in Pristina which are right near the newborn sign. Good for dancing, usually play American hip-hop. ODA Theatre, Pallati i Rinisë 111 (next to City Stadium), ☎ 038 246 555, [6] . Theatre venue with variety of cultural and artistic events, including theatre performances, concerts, exhibitions, International Jazz Festival in November and many more. This is a place to have fun edit People watching.

Being the poorest country in Europe, Kosovans struggle to afford nights out and meals in restaurants. Instead, they get dressed up in their best clothes and walk up and down the main street. Join them, or if you prefer, grab a beer or coffee in an outdoor cafe and watch them go by. edit Buy[ edit ][ add listing ] The outdoor bookstalls adjacent to the Grand Hotel are a good place to pick up a copy of the Code of Lekë Dukagjini. Or a map of Pristina that most likely has names for all the streets many have never heard of. The covered market sells the small, distinctively-shaped enamel 'xhezve' saucepans for boiling coffee.

They come in all sizes, from a single cup to an extended family coffee round and make great, unbreakable, cheap (from 1.50 euro) and authentic souvenirs There is just one antiques shop, 'Delvina', which is on Bill Clinton Boulevard (on the first floor of a block - visible from the street - at the junction with Bob Dole street where all the carwashes are, and where you can buy old (and some new) textiles, traditional costume, jugs etc Traditional silver filigree jewellery is still made in Pristina and is a light and very beautiful though not always cheap souvenir. There are shops selling old filigree on UCK street, and Krenare Rugovica's shop on Garibaldi Street, leading down from the Grand Hotel Women's microfinance projects are run by a number of NGOs, supporting women through handcrafts. Open Door has a shop in the shopping centre behind the 'Newborn' sign, and The Ideas Partnership sells its handmade olive oil soaps, tote bags and candle jars in the BioNatural Shop on UCK and online Eat[ edit ][ add listing ] There are a variety of restaurants with something for everyone's taste.

Home restaurant and bar, by the former OSCE building, opposite the large ABC cinema, for a variety of delicious food and home-prepared food.One of the best restaurants in Kosova.Serves Mediterranean and Kosovar food. Visitors come from many international staff of the surrounding offices, embassys and national ministries. Local actors and well known singers. Very good selected music, English speaking staff and very good wines.Adress.Luan haradinaj(on front of EUROKOHA)300 m from Grand Hotel or Hotel Prishtina and just 200m from Diamond Hotel Contact; 044 336 336, 049 455255 homerestaurantbar@gmail.com Pjata, Rruga Dubrovniku nr.1 (a block away from the UNICEF office), ☎ ++381 38 220 739 ( info@pjata.com ), [7] . WiFi connection for free and good international-style food. edit Pinocchio, in the Dragodan / Arberia neighbourhood, which has excellent food and a warm atmosphere, as well as a panoramic view of Pristina below.

For lunch, hit Te Komiteti on Qamil Hoxha street and have the gazpacho and chicken sandwich. As far as views go, however, you cannot beat Chalet Denis (up Dragodan hill from the bridge, toward Film City / KFOR). Friendly service and the best banana splits in Pristina, presented in a Swiss chalet-style atmosphere. For quick snacks, Aroma near Strip Depo and the ABC Kino and Metro across from the Grand Hotel have terrific sandwiches; Hemingway (in the road behind the large KEK building is the best bet for fish-fanciers, who should also check out Restaurant Rio near Gërmia Park; Il Passatore is an authentic Italian restaurant, run by a real mama and her family. Go there in a taxi as it's a bit hard to find, but all the cabbies know it. The Lounge, (Opposite RTK building, Mother Theresa street). Smart and upmarket bar/restaurant. Food is very good. Offers a mixture of international and local cuisine. edit Tiffany Pizza, directly behind Home, with an eerily simliar layout, features perhaps the best pizza in Pristina.

The spinach pizza is highly recommended, as is the special Raki, all the way from Mitrovica. Another good pizza place is Margarita, opposite of main Police building, wide menu including fresh summer salads and tasty pastas are at your disposal. Home pizza "Margarita" is highly recommended. Not to be missed: Pellumbi If you are interested in trying some Albanian food (with possibly the best bread in the world), then head to Pishat restaurant, not difficult to find, but it's probably best to ask someone to point you in the right direction. Seriously delicious local food. Gets very busy at lunchtimes with Kosovan politicians. Fast Food Places and great food: Sarajeva sells Burek (5 locations), Aurora (across from RTK tower), Sarajevo (banjallucki qebab) also close to RTK and one behind the old Post Office. For a really special meal, go to Renaissance. There are two restaurants near Peyton - one owned by a father and the other his son. Wonderful creative decor, no menu, no sign, so you have to find your way there as if you're going to a speakeasy.

Every taxi driver knows the location of most major restaurants frequented by internationals. Try a traditional qebabtore (you can find one anywhere), or a Turkish doner shop (best ones around the corner from Payton Place, near UNDP) for a real taste of the local food and great value. If you are a foreigner you may have to do a fair bit of pointing to order, but it should be worth it. Himalayan Gorkha, at Qafa Galery, TMK Street. Fine Asian restaurant. Pineapple lassi or Masala tea is a great non-alcoholic drink if you don't like beer, vodka or the local drink (Rakh rrushi). For starters there is chicken pakora which is nice fried chicken which tastes exactly like Kentucky Fried Chicken or vegetable pakora. Best thing about this restaurant is you can have both spicy and non spicy items. For main course there is Chicken Tikka with Roti or Naan. They also have Chicken Biryani, Vegetable Biriyani and Butter chicken.If you are fond of Chinese you can have Chicken fried rice and Veg Fried Rice. Meal for two will not cost more than €10 to 15 with drinks.

Restaurant Ex, on Fehmi Agani. Friendly, English-speaking staff, varied menu including curry. Amadeus. Another restaurant in the Dragodan neighborhood. Serves pizza and other western dishes. edit City Bakery, Nena Tereze 41 (Center of Prishtina), ☎ 045 785 785, [8] . If you want to try traditional food of Kosovo, try City Bakery. edit Rron Restaurant, Veternik - Prishtinë (On Route Rat towards Gjilane, top of the hill before turn for Swebat. Right turn immediately after sign.), ☎ 044 347-777; 044 141-215, [9] . Rron Restaurant is actually just outside the Pristina city limits on the way to Gracanica. Hidden behind an under-construction building for the past couple of years, Rron is a treasure that is popular with local and international politicians as well as the normal guests. The bar area is quite impressive with vaulted ceilings and shelves lined with all different kinds of alcohol all the way up.

The far end of the restaurant has a plate-glass wall that looks out into the garden seating area which is lovely during the summer. There is a small playground for children outside on the far end of the garden which can make summer meals a bit loud at time when there are groups of children running around. edit Thai Restaurant, 21/1 Fehmi Agani (Center, Greca Street), ☎ 045-243 588. 1000-2300. Its located in the city center, next door to restaurant Greca. The Thai food is excellent and its a clean and modern restaurant with a great atmosphere. There is a nice outside terrace in front of the restaurant too. They have free WIFI and they also have take away. edit Aroma 2, Rrustem Statovci. Does Albanian and international fast food, take away or eat in, for low prices - e.g. a mixed grill which two people can stuff themselves on, €6. edit Fellini, Near Law faculty , Rruga 3 Sheshirat , Te rrethi.

know for best cakes, in Prishtina.Famous for their independence cake 1.5 ton, Bill Clinton Cake when " ex.President of America Mr.Bill Clinton came in Kosovo".Fellini its in 3 locations in Prishtina , and its present almost in every event in Kosovo with their amazing cakes. edit Drink[ edit ][ add listing ] Cafes and bars are especially crowded on Friday and Saturday nights. Clubs open up and close down on an almost seasonal basis, but there are some reliable standouts, and neighbourhoods where something good is bound to present itself. In cafes, a good cup of coffee can be bought for under €1. Crème de la Crème (Creme), Mujo Ulqinaku (Peyton Neighborhood), ☎ +38649315783, [10] . 21:00-03:00. The owners don't know how to describe Crème. They call it a bar, a club, a nightclub, a cocktail bar and everything around. There are a lot of cocktails in the menu. It's a nice almost underground place where you can listen to great music, have great cocktails and meet cool people.

It's opened on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays only. Sleep[ edit ][ add listing ] Accommodation can be very expensive in Pristina, as everything is tailored for internationals on expense accounts and hefty per diems. If you look around you should be able to find fliers offering accommodation. If you can find these place(s), go there as the cost is usually €10-15 per night. Budget[ edit ] Buffalo Backpackers (info@buffalobackpackers.com), 274 Musine Kokolari, ☎ +377 45 643 261, [13] . Located in the city center, great, young staff very passionate about Kosovo, breakfast included, Free Wifi and computer access, free coffee and tea, kitchen with cooking facilities, homemade raki and ice cold beer, large garden, exhibition room displaying Kosovo's history, XL jenga and Cornhole toss, fire pit, multiple balconies, luggage storage, lockers, lounge area and more! €10. edit The White Tree Hostel (booking@whitetreehostel.com), Mujo Ulqinaku No.

15 (Peyton Neighborhood, City Center), ☎ +38649166777, [14] . checkin: 09:00; checkout: 23:00. Located in the best neighborhood near city center, friendly staff and owners, capacity of 28 people, one private room, Free Wifi, kitchen with cooking facilities, the best terrace in Prishtina serving also as a bar, balconies, lounge, lockers, the last but not least the best club right behind the hostel known as Crème de la Crème. €10-35. (42.657095,21.154912) edit Velania Guesthouse (The Professor's Guesthouse), [15] . Free laundry service, free cable TV in every room and 24-hour free internet access. Reception is open 24/7. (Taxi from the bus station shouldn't be more than €5.) €13-30.

edit Hostel Pristina (hostel.pristina@gmail.com), 16 Musine Kokalari (From Bus station take Bill Clinton street and come on main square where is new church, take a right turn and cross Ben-af Super market and take first right street, second left and second right.), ☎ +38649187791. checkin: Any time; checkout: 11:00 AM. Free pickup from bus station for the group of 3+ person with minimum stay of 2 nights, washing machines, cable TV, Wi-Fi in whole building. All rooms are with shared bathroom. Breakfast included €8-12 per person per night. edit Hajde Hostel, Ismail Dumoshi 40, ☎ +37744945015, [16] . breakfast, WiFi and extremely friendly owners, detailed map of Pristina showing best places to visit, homemade book of top 10 must-see's in Kosovo, laundry service and private room available. €12-€12.50.

edit Hostel Han, Fehmi Agani 2, ☎ +377 44 760 792, [17] . Located in the city center, very friendly young staff, modern interior, free WiFi, comfortable beds, free coffee and tea in the kitchen, chillout room with TV and PS3, balcony, multicultural open-minded atmosphere. €10-13. edit Mid-range[ edit ] Hotel Afa, Ali Kelmendi Nr. 15, ☎ +381 38/225 226 (+381 38/225 226, office@hotelafa.com ), [18] . checkout: 12:00. Free Internet and a cheap restaurant. €45 to €75 singles, €75 to €112 doubles. edit Hotel Real, Kosta Novakovic 14, ☎ +381 38/245 270 (+381 38/225 029, hotelreal@live.com ), [19] . checkout: 12:00.

Free Internet and a cheap restaurant. €30 to €50 singles, €40 to €60 doubles. edit Hotel Aldi, Cagllavica nr. 303, ☎ +381 38 54 88 02 ( booking@hotelaldi.com ), [20] . checkin: after 12AM; checkout: 12AM. Fresh, modern family-run hotel. Situated only 2 km from the centre, perfect choice for travelers and business people. €25 to €35 for single rooms and €45 to €55 for double rooms. edit Hotel Begolli, (off Mother Thereza Street), ( hotel_begolli@hotmail.com ), [21] . An exceptionally clean family-owned boutique hotel with five fully furnished self contained apartments and eleven rooms. Apartments have kitchens and well appointed amenities and one suite has a full sized jacuzzi spa. Some other rooms have private jacuzzis or three beds for families. €30-80. edit Hotel Ora [22] . Hotel ORA is hidden in a small, calm side street very close to the European Union office in the center.

Some rooms are suite type with a small desk, couch and armchairs. Hotel Princi i Arberit, ☎ +381-38-244244, [23] . Modern hotel some 4 km from the centre. Its distance from the centre means it is often empty, with a risk that the restaurant may be closed and the heating switched off. Internet is available. €40. edit Hotel Sara, Maliq Pash Gjinolli St (in the heart of the bazaar), ☎ +381 38 23 62 03, [24] . Rooms for one to three people and renovated albeit very simple. Clean and basic, this hotel features lurid red and green corridors, a handful of satellite television channels, a few rooms with small jacuzzis and a garage for two cars. Singles €30, doubles €40, triples €60, apartments €60, suite €99.

edit Hotel Victory, Mother Teresa, p.n., ☎ +381 (0/38) 543 277 (+381 (0/38) 543 267, fax: +381 (0/38) 543 286), [25] . On the southern side of the city, about 15 minutes walk from the centre. A friendly and upmarket hotel. Rooms have air conditioning and wireless internet works well throughout. Excellent breakfast with lots of fresh fruit and pastries. Dinner in the restaurant - about €10 for a meal with drinks. €80. edit Hotel AFA Residence, Deme Ahmeti, ☎ +381 38 255 210 (+381 38 255 210, info@hotelafaresidence.com ), [26] . checkout: 12:00. Free Internet and a cheap/classy restaurant. €55 to €75 singles, €75 to €100 doubles.

edit Splurge[ edit ] Golden Hotel, Motrat Qiriazi Ulpiane (Providing free parking and free Wi-Fi, the centrally located Golden Hotel is within a 5-minute drive from the most of Kosovo's government institutions, UN agencies, European Commission and the Council of Europe offices.), ☎ +381 (0)38 533 533, [27] . LCD TVs with more than 100 cable channels are featured in all rooms. Minibar, safety box, hairdryer and desk are also standard equipment. The private bathrooms are separated by glass walls. Front desk is at your service 24 hours a day. Guests can visit Pristina City Park, 2 km away, and the remains of the ancient Roman town, both about 9 km away. The airport is about 15 km from the hotel. €79+ per night. edit Swiss Diamond Hotel, Sheshi Nëna Terezë 10 000 Prishtina (Located opposite the fountain.), ☎ +381 (0)38 220 000, [28] .

Founded by wealthy businessman and philanthropist, Bexhet Pacolli. Luxury hotel with single rooms, business rooms and suites available. Marble baths, separate showers and LCD TV in room. American breakfasts served. Hotel has a sauna, Turkish bath, swimming pool and gym. Hair and beauty treatments offered. The hotel has a restaurant and a lounge bar. €128+ per night. edit Grand Hotel Pristina Unio Commerce, [29] . A state company during the Communist era and in the process of privatization, The Grand Hotel has not been substantially renovated yet—and as such the place is very worn and rightfully mocked for its ironic name. Dangerous electrical connections, and substandard bathrooms especially require attention. The hotel offers seven halls for every kind of activities, wireless and cable internet, business center, and cable TV. Hotel Sirius [30] . Centrally located and offering a luxurious top-floor restaurant providing unique city views. Rooms are supremely decorated and equipped with air-conditioning, an LCD TV, a minibar and a safety deposit box. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Wake-up service can be arranged. Private bathroom provides a shower and hairdryer.

Hotel Prishtina [31] . Just two or three blocks from the UNMIK headquarters, very close to most places of interest. The Hotel Pristina is used by many international workers, including UN workers and members of the international police. It is very clean, has comfortable rooms, offers free internet access (including wifi), and the price of the room includes breakfast. Hotel Baci is comparable to Hotel Pristina and is close to a couple of the more important transportation hubs (i.e. bus station, taxi roundabout, intersection to other towns in Kosova etc.). There's also a decent restaurant downstairs and free Internet in the lobby. Besides this, Hotel Baci offers to its clients free laundry, free fitness and sauna. Breakfast is included in the price, there is 24/7 electricity and water. Hotel Ambassador [32] near the Swiss Liaison Office in the Velania neighbourhood is also up to the standards of a discerning visitor. pristina kosovo united states | Prishtina - Pristina - Prishtine Pristina The Youngest Country of the World!

Did you know…Following more than seven decades of Yugoslav/Serbian government, Kosovo declared its independence on February 17, 2008. Hence, the Connecticut-size land made the world headlines when became the youngest country in the first decade of the 21st century. Ten years before, it was not an independent nation in Europe compared to its neighbors — for example, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia Hercegovina. At the same time, Kosovo boasted one of Europe’s last wars, an ethnic-based conflict, where were killed more than 10,000 persons. From the end of the Cold War to the beginning of the 21st century, it had not been neither prosperous nor stable. In those circumstances, Kosovo Pristina stood as the poorest region on the European mainland. Later on, Kosovo’s independence was backed by America, Albania, and Great Britain. In 2009, it was one of the most peaceful countries on the Balkan Peninsula of Europe. People Did you know… This Southeastern European nation has a population of about 2,500,000. It ranks 148th in population among the countries of the world.

Around 88 per cent of the nation’s population is made up of Albanians. There are also other ethnic groups: Serbs, Bosniaks, Goranis, Roma, Turks, Ashkalis, Egyptians. Education Did you know…Education and technology have received increased emphasis in this landlocked country since it became independent in the first decade of the 21st century. Pristina Pristina Kosovo & the United States of America Did you know…On November 23, 1999, President Bill Clinton made history when arrived in Ferizaj, Kosovo. Since then, it was the first official visit by an American Head of State to Kosovo. America’s leader Clinton arrived in Ferizaj to an enthusiastic welcome. During his visit, Mr Clinton had called on Kosovo Albanians to forgive the injustices perpetrated against them by the Serbs. This Southeastern European nation Kosovo and capital Pristina has been recognized by Washington since 2008. Geography Did you know…The landlocked country of Kosovo, that once formed part of Ottoman empire, lies on the Balkan Peninsula of Southeastern Europe. It is bordered by Montenegro on the Northwest, Macedonia on the South, and Albania on the West.

This new nation holds a territory of 4,203 square miles (or 10,908 square kilometers). On the other hand, the Kosovar countryside consists mainly of mountains separated by fertile valleys. Unique among European countries, it is about the size of Connecticut, an American state Pristina. Kosovo’s capital Did you know…Pristina — the country’s largest city — is the capital city of Kosovo. It is also the nation’s chief commercial, cultural, and industrial center. Since then, Pristina is rich history and friendly people has made it one of the most important metropolises on the Balkan Peninsula. Additionally,it has about 800,000 inhabitants. Languages Did you know…Albanian, English and Serbian are the national languages. The landlocked nation also has other non-official languages: Gorani, Romani, Bosnian, and Turkish, among others. Sports Did you know…The most popular sports are: basketball, boxing, canoe, chess, gymnastics, soccer, swimming, table tennis, team handball, track & field, water polo, and wrestling.

Nonetheless, the Olympic team — made up of Albanians, Kosovo Serbs, Bosniaks and Goranis — has not competed in the modern Olympic Games. Over the past 14 months, the national government has stepped up efforts to participate in the world championships and multi-sports events. Some of its best athletes living in Western Europe. In 1987, Kosovo’s boxer Aziz Salihu earned the gold medal at the Mediterranean Games in Syria. Prisstina Ecology Pristina Did you know… More than 25 per cent of its territory is covered by rainforests. Awards & Prizes Did you know…The new nation was endorsed by Donald Trump,president of Miss Universe Organization in 2008. Also that year, Miss Kosovo, Zana Krasniqi, under the watchful eye of Fadil Berisha — one of the world’s most popular fashion photographers — made the top 15 in Nha Trang, Vietnam. Pristina She was the first Kosovar women to compete in MU. Ironically, Kosovo does not have diplomatic ties with Hanoi.

In the following year, in August 2009, the nation’s contestant Marigona “Gona” Dragusha finished third in The Bahamas, outpacing 80 other entries. Prior to Miss Kosovo’s Bahamas trip, she, who is reminiscent of the world-famous actress Audrey Hepburn, had been training in New York City,along with Hasna Xhukici, Miss Albania Pristina. Metropolises Did you know… Apart from Pristina, the region gathers four amazing cities: Dakovica, Kosovska Mitrovica, Peja, and Prizren. International Organizations Did you know…Since 2009 this Eastern European nation belongs to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. Economics Did you know… On the economic side, Kosovo over the last five decades has changed from a socialist economy to a free market system. From then onwards, a number of foreign corporations operate businesses in the country. Despite being one of Europe’s smallest nations, the landlocked country has important mineral resources, including nickel, lignite, lead, chrome, aluminum, and magnesium. But there’s more. Much of Europe’s coal wealth lies in Kosovo.

The resources could provide for economic growth to Pristina if those natural resources were used more fully. Additionally, Kosovo is endowed with fertil soil. Nature-based tourism is a new source of income. Mountains Did you know…Deravica is the nation’s tallest peak: it rises 8,714 feet (2,656 meters) above sea level. Famous Kosovars Did you know… The country’s has produced a number of performers/artists, including Melihate Ajeti (actress), Adekina Ismajli (singer), Shaban Gashi (photographer), Akil Mark Koci (composer), Esat Valla (painter) and a host of other pristina . It has also produced many fine writers, among them Xhevdet Bajraj and Eqrem Basha. However, few of them are known outside the country. Foreign Relations Did you know…During the 1990s and early 2000s, Kosovo worked to establish ties with several republics.

So far, the new nation has been internationally recognized by 62 member countries of the United Nations, including the United States, Australia, France, Turkey, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, the new country receives continued support and aid from the US and European Union. Pristina 1000+ images about ༺ Kosovo ༻ on Pinterest | Traditional, Serbian and Lakes Pinterest • The world’s catalog of ideas ༺ Kosovo ༻ The Republic of Kosovo, is a partially recognised state in Southeastern Europe. Its largest city and capital is Pristina. Kosovo is landlocked and is bordered by the Republic of Macedonia to the south, Albania to the west and Montenegro to the northwest.

Capital: Pristina, Government: Parliamentary republic, Population: (2011 estimate) 1,733,842, Currency: euro (€)3 (EUR), Calling code : +381, Official language(s): Albanian, Serbian 19 Pins1.63k Followers European Union - EEAS (European External Action Service) | Political & economic relations European Union Contacts Political & economic relations The European Union has been an integral part of the international effort to build a new future for Kosovo since 1999. The European Union - both its Member States and its institutions, notably the European Commission - plays a prominent role in the reconstruction and development of Kosovo. The European Union is by far the single largest donor providing assistance to Kosovo and the South Eastern European region as a whole and is at the forefront of the reconstruction effort. Kosovo has received more than € 2 billion in EU assistance since 1999. While it initially focused on emergency relief actions and reconstruction, it now concentrates on fostering Kosovo’s development of stable institutions and sustainable economic development and ensuring Kosovo’s European future.

18 EU Member States maintain a representative office in Kosovo and numerous non- governmental organisations from EU member states are active in Kosovo. The EU has reiterated (most recently at the December 2010 European Council) that Kosovo has a clear European perspective in line with the European perspective of the Western Balkans region. The EU remains committed to playing a leading role in ensuring the stability of Kosovo through a European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP) mission in the rule of law area, through its Special Representative and also its contribution to the International Civilian Office. The European Commission accompanies Kosovo's European reform efforts and provides recommendations and help; also on achieving the targets that the Council set out in the European Partnership for Kosovo . On 11 July 2008, the Commission hosted a Donors' Conference for Kosovo in Brussels. At the Conference, the Commission called upon donors (EU member states, non-EU donors, and international financial institutions) to contribute to Kosovo’s socio-economic development and help bridge a funding gap of some €1.4 billion years for the period 2009-2011.

The amounts pledged exceeded €1.2 billion, with a total EU contribution (Commission + EU member states) of almost €800 million. The European Union is present in Kosovo through: The European Union Office in Kosovo/European Union Special Representative (EUSR) Kosovo Map Kosovo Map Disclaimer Close Disclaimer : All efforts have been made to make this image accurate. However Compare Infobase Limited, its directors and employees do not own any responsibility for the correctness or authenticity of the same. More Kosovo Maps Pristina Map In its early history, Kosovo was inhabited by various ethnic tribes, though it became part of the Roman Empire around 160 BC, becoming part of the province of Illyricum in 59 BC, and later the province of Moesia in 87 AD. Beginning around the 6th century AD, the region saw Slavic migration, leading up to the Slavic takeover of many cities. Kosovo and its surrounding Balkan states became part of the Bulgarian Empire around 850, and were later overtaken by the Byzantines in 1018.

Kosovo was conquered by Serbia in the 12th century, becoming part of the Serbian Empire when it was created in 1346. Kosovo was an important center of the kingdom until the Battle of Kosovo in 1389, when the Ottomans took control, fully conquering the region by 1455. In the beginning of Kosovo's history as part of the Ottoman Empire, it existed as part of Rumelia, until it became its own province in 1864. Kosovo's territory was expanded to include parts of Albania, and Islam spread among its people. The Austrian Empire controlled Kosovo during the Great War in 1683 until the Ottoman Empire regained its power in 1699. Tensions between the Christian Serbs and Muslim Albanians began to cause conflict in Kosovo. Albanian nationalism led to the formation of the League of Prizren in 1878. After a coup in 1912, the Ottoman Empire was taken over by the Young Turk Movement, causing uprisings and the loss of Albanian territories.

After World War I, Serbia became the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenians in 1918. In 1929, that kingdom transformed into the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. The following decades were marked by Serbian recolonization of Kosovo, and the Muslims were pushed out. In 1941, the Axis powers invaded Yugoslavia. After World War II, Kosovo became an autonomous province within Serbia. The tensions between Albanians and Serbs led to violence, and the 1999 Kosovo War. Yugoslavia came under UN administration. The Republic of Kosovo declared independence in 2008, which has been widely recognized internationally. Neighboring Countries Kosovo shares borders with the Republic of Macedonia, Albania, and Montenegro. Major Cities Mitrovica Geography Kosovo is located in the Balkan Peninsula, and its landscape features the Sar Mountains and Kopaonik Mountains, and the Metohija basin and Plain of Kosovo. The highest point in Kosovo is Deravica Peak, which stands 2,656 meters (8,714 feet) above sea level. Rugova Canyon is one of Kosovo's notable features, formed by the Pecka Bistrica.

Another notable feature is the Gadime Cave. The Balkan forests cover much of the terrain. The main rivers in Kosovo include the White Drin, Sitnica, Ibar, and the South Morava, while the major lakes include Gazivoda, Radonjic, Batlava and Badovac. The White Drin River creates the Drin Waterfall, while the Mirusa Waterfalls are on the Mirusa tributary of the Drin. Points of Interest In Pristina, there are many historical sites and archaeological sites, including some dating back to the Ottoman Empire. The city also holds the National Museum, a university and library, and the Jashar Pasha Mosque, among other religious sites. The recently reconstructed Gjakova Old Bazaar originated in the 17th century as an eclectic market, centered around a mosque. One UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kosovo is the Decani Monastery, which is connected to the Serbian Orthodox Church, and is known for its unique architecture that blends eastern and western styles. Another site is the Gracanica Monastery, which is also significant for its architecture, but also features frescoes.

More historical sites can be found in Prizren, which features architecture influenced by Islamic styles. The town of Novo Brdo was once a major city, and features a medieval castle. Some natural sites in Kosovo include the Drin Waterfall and the Rugova Gorge outside of Peja, and the Mirusha Waterfalls. Transportation The major airport in the country is located in Kosovo's capital, called Pristina International Airport, which has service to many major European cities. Kosovo is accessible by bus and car across the borders at many points, though the major roads are paved, others are not well maintained. Distance buses are a good way to get from Albania, Serbia, and Montenegro, and the system is well connected with cities across Eastern and Central Europe. Within major cities, there is public transportation, including a bus system, as well as plenty of taxis. Trains are also available form Serbia and Macedonia, which can take a long time. The railway system within Kosovo is fairly well connected to certain Serbian enclaves in the north, and there are trains between Fushe Kosove and Leshak and Hani i Elezit, among other routes. ACOD~20131218

Question: Pristina is the capital of which European state?
Answer: Kosovo