MKSF NEWSLETTER September, 2017

MKSF Newsletter

September, 2017

Dear,

As a new Minister for Security Force (MKSF) I have a pleasure to follow up the 50th edition of electronic magazine. Despite knowing with situation in Ministry and the Force after receiving my duty from my predecessor Mr. , during month of September I have made a range of meetings and visits starting them with Ambassadors: United States of America , Mr. Greg Delawie; United Kingdom , Mr. Ruairi O’Connell; Republic of Turkey , Mrs. Kivilcim Kiliç; Republic of Mrs. Marija Kapitanoviq; Republic of Italy, Mr. Piero Cristoforo Sardi. Also, I have met with KFOR Commander General Giovanni Fungo as well military representatives of U. S Embassy in Pristina. All these meetings aimed to get known and reaffirm to continue and intensify cooperation. The first visit abroad, upon invitation of Minister of Defense, Mrs.Olta Xhaçka, I did in Ministry of Defense of Albania and Armed Forces of Republic of Albania. We have conducted a range of concrete activities with the United States of America during this month. We have received a contingent of communication equipment in value of $ 9.2 million from the U. S Embassy. Also, the KSF with a modest ceremony has remembered the terrorist attack, 11th September’’ in U. S. During the month of September, Commander of KSF, General Rrahman Rama has hosted a delegation of Lords from Great Britain as well upon invitation of Chief of Armed Force of Turkey has paid an official visit in Ankara. Federal Republic of Germany has donated a German language lab to the KSF whereas two KSF Officers are certified as “Physical Training Instructor” and there is held, also a seminar on subject “Strategic Leadership”. The KSF has been estimated as regular provider of Blood National Transfusion Center in Kosovo. This activity was organized by this center in the month of September and the KSF members have given 544 blood doses to it. Also, at the end of September, 16 new cadets of the KSF started the first year of schooling at University Study Center of the KSF and took oath for service in the KSF. With respect,

Rrustem BERISHA

Minister of MKSF MKSF NEWSLETTER 2 SEPTEMBER, 2017

Germany donates German Language None of them has ever been in America for a visit or for any kind of training. Both KSF officers visited the entire Lab to the KSF Bondstill camp, as well as the post office facility, gymnasium, kitchen, facility for physical hardening and Pristina, 06.Sept 2017 - Deputy Minister of Kosovo other facilities, to have a clear idea what awaits them Security Force Mr. Muhamet Latifi and the KSF when they arrive at Fort Gordon and Fort Lee. Commander LTG. Rrahman Rama dated 05.09.2017, "The purpose of our visit was to build good relations with hosted Deputy Ambassador of Germany in the Republic Asllani and Denic, as well as KSF staff," said Major of Kosovo Mr. Jan-Axel Voss. Christopher Evans, Chief Communications Officer at the Deputy Minister, Mr. Latifi thanked Ambassador Voss for Brigade of the Multi-national combat team Brigade "They the continuing support that Germany is giving to Kosovo took Camp Bondstill as an example of what kind of and for the . Mr. Latifi through environment awaits them when they are in the US Army ambassador Voss thanked also Germany, Ministry of training facilities. The announcement program allows Defense and Armed Forces which are giving huge Denic to closely see what kind of equipment will be taken contribution in terms of KSF professionalization, through during his specific military training. Captain James training, exercises and seminars that KSF members are Culver, Denic's mentor and transport officer, the East taking part, and also through donations. Bend MNBG, introduced Denic to CW2, Antonio Pouncy, In this meeting an officer in charge of support activities at the MNBG- Deputy Minister east Bondstill camp. Pouncy demonstrated some launch Latifi and procedures and electronic messages that could be part of General Rama his training at Fort Lee”. Denic will learn a lot about the informed storage and launching procedures of various classrooms, Deputy said Culver. As a person in charge in this area he should Ambassador learn how to fill out the forms exactly to look for the right Voss about the article and the article shall be going to the right address. KSF "The training was good today, and with the help of Capt. achievements in Culver, I know what it expects me there, Denic said. "He general. taught me a lot about logistics procedures, so, I know From his side now, that the knowledge I get from school will help me German Deputy when I return to Kosovo. Like Denic, Asllan had the Ambassador Jan-Axel Voss, pledged to continue this opportunity to learn about his education in America by great cooperation between Kosovo and Germany. Lt. Christopher Young, Deputy Communications Officer The handover ceremony of German language lab for the at the MNBG-east. Yongu told to Asllan, some tactical KSF members took place after the meeting in Adem and communications equipment Asllan, the equipment Jashari barracks. that he can see during the Fort Gordon capstone career signal. The purpose of this introduction was to provide Asllan with a knowledge of the course, and help him with The KSF members prepares for the course of the training he would be subjecting there, training in U.S Young said. At the end of the day, Asllani said the visit to Camp Pristina, 06 Sept. 2017. Two of the Kosovo Security Bondstill Force Members have visited Bondstill Camp dated 08 was fruitful August 2017, as a part of preparation program before and setting off to their training locations in the U. S. prepared Lt. Albert Asllani, Officer of Security Operation in Land him for the Force Command and Second Lieutenant, Milosh Deniq, training to Transport Platoon Leader had a chance to talk to their come. The counterparts from American Army in order to make a training was better preparation for the visit to the U. S. Two of the good today, KSF Officers will be going to Fort Gordon, Georgia and and with the Fort Lee, Virginia for attending courses as help of Capt. Communication and Logistic Officer. They were broadly Culver, I know what will be expecting me there, said informed on purpose of Individual Courses as well on Denic. ""The visit was useful because it informed me of American culture which includes live and environmental the course," said Asllani. "Major Evans and Lt. Young conditions. taught me a lot about what would take me there. It helps me plan things over time and give my best of me.” MKSF NEWSLETTER 3 SEPTEMBER, 2017

"Strategic Leadership" Seminar was held in MKSF

Pristina, 08 September 2017. The "Strategic Leadership" seminar was held at the Ministry for the Kosovo Security Force. This seminar was realized on the basis of the Bilateral Cooperation Plan with USA, organized and supported by the US Embassy's Office of Military Cooperation in Kosovo. The seminar was held by eminent experts in the relevant field, such as; Glen Grant, Vladimir Milenski headed by Dr Thomas Young. Attended: the highest staff of the Ministry and the Kosovo Security Force, the Directors of the Ministry`s Departments as well as the Commanders of the KSF units, the general level, colonel and lieutenant colonel. The attendance of the seminar has been very high, with topics of a professional character related to leadership in different periods and situations that have been realized through strategic planning and direction to find the ways to maximize the lowest cost actions. The findings of this seminar at the end were presented to the leadership of MKSF as evidence of the acquisition of strategic management appraisal techniques.

The KSF donated over 544 blood doses

Pristina, 08 Septb.2017. In the Ministry for the The KSF has a tradition on voluntary donation of Kosovo Security Force and the Kosovo Security Force, blood, not only during regular actions, but members the voluntary blood donation action ended in August. of the KSF are also responsive to these arrangements; This action has already become traditional and is they give blood every year, every time that Kosovo organized with the motto: "A blood drop for the citizens need it. salvation of a life". This action for Voluntary Blood Donation has been The action for voluntary blood donation to the KSF arranged by the Department of Civil-Military started on 07.08.2017 and ended on 30.08.2017. Cooperation in cooperation with Medical Department During this period, despite the summer holidays, within the MKSF and was conducted by the National members of the KSF and civil staff donated over 544 Blood Transfusion Center of Kosovo and the KSF blood donations that will be in service to all citizens Medical Company. of Kosovo.

MKSF NEWSLETTER 4 SEPTEMBER, 2017

RRUSTEM BERISHA RECEIVED THE DUTY Two members of the KSF are certified Physical Training OF THE MINISTER OF KSF BY THE Instructors PRESENT MINISTER HAKI DEMOLLI

Pristina, 08 Sept 2017. At the Military School of Physical Training in England, KSF had made two achievements today. Two members of her staff are qualified as a successful physical training instructors. KSF member Gentiana Karpuzi became the first female non-English soldier who completely completed the course of the British Army, "Physical Training Instructors Course". This thirty (30) weeks rigorous course is open only to Britain's best army soldiers who want to specialize in the field of physical training. Also, the KSF member Emir Vllasa has completed the "Physical Training Instructor Course of all weapons". In this course, students learn to set up physical training programs and run fitness training sessions. Present to this certification ceremony at the Military School of Physical Training in England, were Director of the Operations Pristina, 11 September 2017. Today, in the Ministry for Directorate at MKSF, General Brigade Zymer the Kosovo Security Force, officially was handed over the Halimi, Chief of Staff Command of Land Forces duty of Minister of MKSF. of KSF Col. Naim Haziri and Kosovo Ambassador in London, Lirim Greiçevci. The current Minister Mr. Demolli, on this occasion, congratulated Minister Rrustem Berisha for his good wishes and success in running MKSF. He informed the newly elected minister about the achievements of the

KSF, as well as the ongoing projects.

Also, Mr. Demolli thanked all the staff of the Ministry and the KSF for successful cooperation on the joint path to the construction and development of MKSF and the Kosovo Security Force.

From his part, the new minister, Berisha, after accepting the assignment, thanked Minister Demolli congratulating him on the successes that marked this force and at the same time confirmed his commitment to continue with maximum engagement in the direction and accomplishment of duties and general projects for the Ministry and the KSF.

MKSF NEWSLETTER 5 SEPTEMBER, 2017

Minister of KSF Rrustem Berisha hosted U. S The KSF commemorates 11th Ambassador, Greg Delawie September of terrorist attacks in the US

Pristina, 13 Sept 2017 - Members of the Kosovo Security Force commemorated the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the US population in the United States. On 11 September 2017, in all the KSF units with arrangement of various events were honored the victims of September 11th of the terrorist attacks. Also in the "Scanderbeg" barracks in Ferizaj, members of the KSF, together with the American members of the Bonstill camp, this year, like every other year, commemorated the victims of the September 11th of the terrorist attacks. All members of the Kosovo Security Force and the entire people of Kosovo share the Pristina, 12th Sept. 2017. Minister of Ministry for Kosovo Security pain with the American people, who Force, Mr. Rrustem Berisha, hosted for a meeting Ambassador of contribute to peace and freedom in every U.S, Mr. Greg Delawie. country of the world. Minister Berisha has thanked Ambassador for the visit and

congratulation for the new duty. In this case, also he thanked the Ambassador Delawie for the constant cooperation and assistance of U. S given to Ministry and the KSF mentioning that he will work to make deeper this cooperation during his mandate. He also talked about the importance of the transformation process of the KSF to the KAF and the challenges that await this process, stressing that it will convey a clear and open message to the Serb community and other communities that the KAF will not be oriented against anyone, but it will be in the interest of all citizens of Kosovo. On his part, US ambassador Greg Delawie expressed readiness to continue cooperation in the future, stressing that the US embassy welcomes the readiness to continue this cooperation to increase and strengthen the capacity of the KSF. We support the transformation of KSF into KAF based on constitutional changes and we appreciate that this process should be inclusive for the whole community and contribute to regional stability.

MKSF NEWSLETTER 6 SEPTEMBER, 2017

Dep/Commander of Land Force Command IOWA`s National Guard supports the Kosovo hosted for a farewell meeting Dep/Chief Security Force of NATO Liaison Advisory Team Pristina, 13th Sept 2017. IOWA`s National Guard teams in Pristina, 13th Sept 2017. Dep/Commander of Land support to Land Force Command Staff of the KSF are conducting workshop with subject “Staff Directorate” Their Force Command (LFC),BG.Gëzim Hazrolli hosted for a focus was support to the LFC Departments, in farewell meeting Dep/Chief of NATO Liaison Advisory development, promotion and approximation of standards Team FSK, Turkish Colonel ,Ilyas Seyfi Altikanoglu. with the IOWA`s National Guard based on the partnership On this occasion, General Hazrolli thanked of the KSF with the IOWA`s National Guard and of both Col.Ilyas for his engagement and contribution given Commanders: Commander of the Kosovo Security Force during his service in the KSF wishing all the best to LTG. Rrahman Rama and Commander of the IOWA`s his work and family. During his speech held on this National Guard Major General Timothy Orr. occasion he highly assessed his great and open- The IOWA`s National Guard team headed by Chief of Staff , handed support of Col. Ilyas and of the Turkish state Col. Michael Schlorholtz and his staff were hosted by Dep/ commander of Land Force Command , BG. Gëzim Hazrolli, to the KSF in all areas such as in training, equipment the LFC staff and representatives of Ministry for Kosovo andstrategic support. Security Force.

Also, IOWA`s National Guard team headed by Col. Damian Donahoe dated 11.09.2017 is supporting the LFC Personnel in the area of human resources management ( Life-cycle management)which is having discussion with staff throughout Units concerning challenges and achieved successes. General Hazrolli by welcoming IOWA`s National Guard team thanked General Timothy Orr on creation of possibilities to make cooperation and sharing of experiences with LFC staff. At the same time, he expressed pain and support of him and of all the KSF members for the catastrophe Whereas, the Turkish Colonel expressed his gratitude occurred in those days in U. S from hurricane ,Irma”. to General Hazrolli and the KSF in general for the Meanwhile, Colonel Michael Schlorholtz said he feels excellent co-operation they had between them, excited about the visit. He said among other things: "It is underlining that this cooperation will continue to the first time I am here in Kosovo physically, but I am very further support, upgrade and professionalize the KSF. familiar with activities and partnership. I express my In the end, General Hazrolli expressed gratitude to satisfaction with the cooperation and sharing of experiences Colonel Ilyas for his contribution to the KSF, saying with you, as we also, do have challenges like you. Afterwards, Colonel Jeton Dreshaj briefed to participants that you will always be welcome as our friend in with the objectives of the Kosovo Security Force Kosova. Commander, as well as areas that are of interest to be addressed during this workshop, such as: Operations and training, preparation for deployment, coordination with various crisis agencies, career development, intelligence, maintenance, communication systems, EOD, search and rescue (K9) ChNBP etc. MKSF NEWSLETTER September, 2017

Minister of KSF, Rrustem Berisha hosted the military representatives of the US Embassy in Kosovo

Pristina, 15 Sept 2017. Today, Minister of the Kosovo Security Force, Mr. Rrustem Berisha, accompanied by KSF Commander, Lt. Gen. Rrahman Rama, Military Advisor to Minister, Colonel Fadil Hadegjonaj and Chief of Cabinet of Minister Latif Leka received a large delegation of military representatives of the US Embassy in Kosovo. The delegation was led by Col. Jeffrey Fisher, Defense Attaché at the US Embassy in Pristina, which was accompanied by; Major Juan Murillo, Military Attaché of US Embassy, Joshua Rubin, Political-Military Advisor, Brian Devlin, Chief of Office of Military Cooperation (ODC), and Jodi Marti, Representative Officer at US Embassy in Pristina. The purpose of the visit was to congratulate the minister on the new task, and to inform them closely about the duties they perform in relation to MKSF and KSF.

Minister Berisha praised their personal commitments and contributions to the establishment and deepening of close cooperation between the MKSF and the US Embassy in Kosovo, especially its military personnel. He also highly praised the intensive cooperation with the Iowa National Guard and the KSF. The Minister expressed the conviction that in the future we will overcome all the challenges by cooperating and coordinating closely with our strategic partner - the US. The Minister expressed the conviction that even for the transformation of the KSF into the KAF we will cooperate closely until we reach the political decision for transformation.

Also, the Commander of the KSF, in his speech expressed his gratitude for the support of the US and the concrete contribution of the present officers. He praised that cooperation is very good and very intensive, citing in particular the cooperation with the Iowa National Guard and the great contribution of its commander, General Timothy Orr. This collaboration has provided concrete results, both in the field of training and in joint field exercises.

On his part, Colonel Fisher, once again congratulated Minister Berisha for his new assignment, highly appreciated the work and cooperation so far with the KSF. He expressed his considerations for the minister, stressing that he feels good about the main issues; as the issue of transformation, we have similar approaches. Colonel Fisher also highly appreciated the degree of cooperation with the KSF, such as: training, education, exercises and donations being given to the KSF and highly appreciated the achievements of cadets and KSF soldiers in international, exercises and education where they are remarkable for their commitment and quality, coming out the best, and honoring with the medal. Finally, Colonel Fisher expressed readiness to deepen this cooperation with the continued support that the Minister will have in his work and cooperation with the KSF. All guests express their satisfaction with the work and contribution, as well as the cooperation between the KSF and the US Embassy, Kosovo and the US Army and the United States. MKSF NEWSLETTER 8 SEPTEMBER, 2017

Minister of KSF, Rrustem Berisha It`s over joint workshop of IOWA`s National hosted for a meeting Ambassador of Guard and Land Force Command Turkey Kivilcim Kiliç

Pristina, Monday, 18 Sept 2017. At end of closing of the workshop organized by IOWA`s National Guard and Land Force Command Staff , as well in presence of Kosovo Security Force Commander has made a presentation of working group in the area of personnel, logistic , operation and planning works. This workshop is organized by LFC Staff Officers in cooperation with their counterparts from IOWA`s National Guard from U. S with focus into LFC and the KSF Units seeing the achievements and challenges that Kosovo Security Force is facing with. Col. Schlorholtz in addition to the cooperation said, I highly appreciated the hospitality of all KSF staff and expressed convinced to further continue this cooperation. At the end of this workshop, the commander of the KSF, Lt. Gen. Rrahman Rama, especially thanked the Commander of the National Guard, Major

General Timothy ORR, for the given opportunity by

the Iowa Guard Headquarters to be here with us and Pristina, 14th Sept 2017. Ambassador of Republic of discuss regarding the achievements and challenges Turkey in Kosovo, Kivilcim Kiliç paid a working visit that the Kosovo Security Force is facing. to premises of Ministry for Kosovo Security Force “The Kosovo Security Force has its political planning where she was hosted by Minister Rrustem Berisha. and organizational challenges, but our partnership Minister Berisha initially thanked Ambassador Kilic and our aim have for his visit and congratulations on the occasion of hel his engagement in the new office and at the same time thanked the Republic of Turkey for the cooperation and continuous assistance she has given and is continuing to provide for the KSF. Also, the KSF Minister urged Ambassador Kilic to continue and deepen this cooperation in the future in all areas of common interest for both ministries and both countries. Meanwhile, in turn, the ambassador of Turkey, Kiliç, expressed readiness for the deepening and continuation of this cooperation in the future between the Ministry of KSF and the Turkish Ministry of Defense.

ped to increase the progress of the Kosovo Security Force, and we will build this partnership as high as possible. General Rama and Chief of Staff of IOWA`s National Guard pledged for cooperation in the future, expressing that this cooperation will be the best example out of all partnerships that IOWA has with different states.

MKSF NEWSLETTER 9 SEPTEMBER, 2017

Commander of the KSF, General Rrahman Rama received a delegation of Lords from Great Britain

Pristina, 20 September 2017. At the premises of the Ministry for the Kosovo Security Force, a delegation of elected representatives of the House of Lords of Britain's International Relations Committee, led by Lord Bruce Grocott, Baroness Elizabeth Coussins accompanied by: Keneth Marrison, Roshani Palamakumbura and Sam Paice, were received today by KSF commander, Lt. Gen. Rrahman Rama with associates. On this occasion, the commander of the KSF, General Rama notified a delegation of the United Kingdom with the general developments of the KSF, with the successes and overall achievements of the KSF, pointing out that "part of our success is also the contribution of England, "for which the commander thanked the Government and the Armed Forces of Great Britain. Also, General Rama informed the guests about the internal organization of the KSF,the KSF participation in international trainings, cadet education and members of the KSF in international prestigious academies, in various friendly countries, and especially those of Great Britain where the KSF members have shown high achievements with earn of gold medals. Commander of the KSF, also informed guests about the current mission of the KSF, the preparations for KSF

transformation, about the difficulties that this process is underway. He also talked about the degree of cooperation in the region and especially with neighboring countries, engaging not only to be a security consumers but also the producers of it. Our good cooperation with KFOR and NATO Liaison Teams, the establishment and training of the KSF with NATO standards, we naturally aim and commit ourselves to be part of NATO and as a society to be part of the Euro-Atlantic world. On behalf of the Lord's Delegation from the United Kingdom, thanked for the reception, Lord Krokot, who among other things was interested in knowing more about the integration of community members within the KSF, while Baroness Cousins for general security and international assistance in preparations for the KSF transformation. Commander of the KSF, General Rama informed the guests about the high level representation of community members within the KSF, currently 10.5%, the successful integration of members of the Serb community. The Delegation of Lords from Great Britain shared the satisfaction with the reception and overall achievements of the KSF, especially with the inclusion and integration of members of minority communities in the KSF.

MKSF NEWSLETTER 10 SEPTEMBER, 2017

Minister of KSF, Rrustem Berisha hosted Ambassador of United Kingdom, Ruairi O’Connell

Pristina, 21st Sept 2017. Minister of Ministry For Kosovo Security Force (MKSF), Mr. Rrustem Berisha for the first time, hosted for a meeting, Ambassador of the United Kingdom, Mr. Ruairi O'Connell.

In the joint meeting Minister Berisha and Ambassador O’Connell talked concerning excellent relations and fruitful cooperation between Ministry for the KSF and Armed Forces of United Kingdom with commitment to continue, promote and intensify this kind of relations in the future. On this occasion, the Minister of KSF, Mr. Berisha, thanked the British ambassador for the visit, announced his excellency, Ambassador Ruairi O'Connell on the inherited situation in the Ministry and the Force as well as his political vision and leadership of the Ministry and the Force for the future, expressed gratitude for the support that the Government and the British people have given to the KSF with the commitment that the future of the KSF and the development plans of the Force will be made in full coordination with the strategic partners and NATO. Minister Rrustem Berisha, spoke on current situation in Ministry and Force , plans on transformation of the Kosovo Security Force into Kosovo Armed Forces expressing that the transformation process of the KSF into the KAF will be fully transparent and in cooperation with NATO and strategic partners such as U. S , UK etc. as well will be worked closely with all Assembly members of Kosovo`s Republic of all communities in order to convince that the Kosovo Armed Forces will be a Force which will ensure security of Kosovo and its people regardless. MKSF NEWSLETTER 11 SEPTEMBER, 2017

On his part, Ambassador Ruairi O'Connell, congratulating Minister Berisha for his new assignment, said that the good relations between the United Kingdom and the Republic of Kosovo will continue in the future, as well as the excellent relations between the ministries and our Two Forces. His Excellency, Ambassador O'Connell on the transformation matter of the KSF said: "The decision to transform the KSF into the KAF, Kosovo should take it in cooperation with NATO, saying that Kosovo's

security depends on relations with NATO ".

Attended: Military Attaché of United Kingdom in Rep. Of Macedonia accredited for Kosovo, LTC. Richard Perry, who during meeting focused in concrete areas of cooperation between United Kingdom and Rep. Of Kosova in frame of KFOR , support of UK in the relations KSF - NATO, provision of support for communities as well support of UK to the KSF in building of capacities in the security field.

Minister of KSF, Rrustem Berisha was hosted by Minister of Defense of Albania Olta Xhaçka

Pristine, 26th Sept 2017- Minister of Ministry for Kosovo Security Force (MKSF) Mr. Rrustem Berisha upon invitation of Minister of Defense of Albania, Mrs.Olta Xhaçka paid an official visit in Tirana. Minister Berisha and delegation of Ministry of KSF was hosted at Ministry of Defense with military ceremony. In the joint meeting Minister Berisha and Xhaçka and of both delegations talked on excellent bilateral relations as well successful cooperation between both Ministries. Initially, Minister Berisha congratulated, Minister Xhaçka for her new assignment expressing the unwavering confidence that both ministries and our two countries will continue to have excellent relations and intensify their mutual cooperation in the future. Further on, Minister Berisha said:The character of this visit was more briefing and intends extension of cooperation between Ministry of KSF and Ministry of Defense in frame of extension of regional cooperation of all regional countries”. Also, Minister Rrustem Berisha added: Republic of Kosovo intends promotion of good relations with neighboring countries. Not only to minimize the threats and risks but also to overcome the legacy of the past, because in this region we have had an unfortunate legacy and we hope that we will find ways and strengths to overcome all barriers, which would jeopardize domestic security, regional security and global security ''. Minister Berisha, during his visit especially mentioned transformation of the KSF into KAF., I briefed Minister that the Kosovo`s Government priority is to strengthen security Institutions .This includes transformation of the KSF into Kosovo Armed Forces”. MKSF NEWSLETTER 12 SEPTEMBER, 2017

t the end, Minister Berisha said that ,,We intend that previous cooperation between Ministry of the KSF and Ministry of Defense to further be promoted. So far, we used to have an excellent cooperation especially in the area of education and training. In this regard, there are arranged various courses starting from basic up to advance course. We expect from the Ministry of Defense to have support and support for membership in regional initiatives and NATO integration, and we believe that after this briefing meeting, Minister Xhaçka will on its agenda foresee a visit to Kosovo, namely the Ministry for Kosovo Security Force ''. Whereas, Minister Xhaçka expressed that meeting was an excellent opportunity to congratulate Mr. Berisha for his new assignment on the top of Ministry for Kosovo Security Force adding: ,,I am convinced that the Minister and the new Government of Rep. Of Kosovo leaded by Mr. Haradinaj will continue the excellent work for integration of their country into Euro-Atlantic structures”. urther on, the Albanian Defense Minister emphasized: "I assure the Minister that our support will continue to be concrete and maximal both in political and technical terms. All Albania's experience on the road to full NATO integration will continue to be followed with professionalism and kindness to our Kosovar brothers’’. Also, Minister Olta Xhaçka said that the world's largest military alliance, a union of values and efforts to protect the life, liberty and democracy of the peoples of member states, has a clear priority to "open door" policy of all countries of the Western Balkans. And the full integration of the Balkans into NATO means more security, more stability, more democracy, not only for member states, but for the Alliance as a whole. Moreover integration is a common dream of Balkan peoples, who deserve to be rewarded for their sacrifices. At the end , Albanian Minister of Defense said : ,,I expressed to Minister , my persuasion that the Rep. Of Kosova , with open-handed assistance of allied countries and partners ones , in accordance with its internal legislation will make realization of the KSF transformation into Kosovo`s Armed Forces ’’, ended , Minister Xhaçka.

BG. Gëzim Hazrolli hosted for a farewell meeting BG.Christian Riener

Pristine, 27 Sept 2017 - Dep/Commander of Land Force Command (LFC) BG. Gëzim Hazrolli hosted for a farewell meeting KFOR Dep/Commander, Gen.Christian Riener with collaborators. During meeting, Gen.Hazrolli thanked Gen. Riener for given contribution not only to the Force but, also to the country`s security in generally. General Hazrolli said that during service in the KSF, KFOR Dep/Commander, Christian Riener, provided professional help and experience in organizing of joint exercises with KFOR like in, “Silver Sword “, as well via training assisted in professional upgrading of the KSF members. General Riener expressed to be pleased with cooperation and achievements of the KSF members and thanked BG. Hazrolli for an excellent cooperation hoping to have these kind of cooperation in the best of the KSF which won`t be missing even in the future. At the end, BG.Hazrolli as sign of thanks and gratitude awarded gifts to KFOR DC and his collaborators. MKSF NEWSLETTER 13 SEPTEMBER, 2017

Commander of KSF, LTG. Rrahman Rama stayed for an official visit in Armed Forces of Turkey

Pristina, 27th Sept 2017. Commander of Kosovo Security Force, Lieutenant General Rrahman Rama, at the invitation of Turkish Armed Forces Commander of the Republic of Turkey, General Hulusi Akar, paid an official visit to Ankara. General Rama, in Ankara, was received with military honors at the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Turkey by the General Commander of the Turkish Army, General Hulusi Akar. Generals Rama and Akar during the meeting mainly talked about good relations and successful bilateral cooperation between the Kosovo Security Force and the Armed Forces of Turkey as well as future cooperation plans. On this occasion, the commander of the KSF, General Rama, highly praised the support that the Turkish Army is providing in all areas for the KSF so that the KSF continues its development and overall professionalism. He also underlined the commitment of Turkey's Armed Forces Commander General Akar for the continued support to the KSF in equipment and in the field of vocational education and training. General Rrahman Rama and delegation of Ministry for KSF comprised of General Secretary: Mr. Shkëlzen Sylaj, Personal Secretary of GS, Mr. Florin Hoxha, Chief of Sector for Plans, Programs and Analysis, Lieutenant Colonel Sefer Isufi, Attaché of KSF accredited to Turkey, LTC. Bekim Osmani and Military Assistant to KSF Commander, Captain Jaser Mulla, then visited some of the Turkish military industry departments, where General Rama and the delegation of MKSF and KSF closely saw some of the most modern individual and collective military equipment that may be of interest to the KSF.

MKSF NEWSLETTER 14 SEPTEMBER, 2017

Minister of KSF, Rrustem Berisha hosted for a Minister of KSF, Rrustem Berisha hosted for meeting KFOR Commander, General Giovanni Fungo a meeting Croatia`s Ambassador, Marija Kapitanovic

Pristina, 27th Sept 2017. Minister of Ministry for Kosovo Security Force ,(MKSF),Mr. Rrustem Berisha hosted for the first time in a meeting Croatia`s Ambassador Mrs.Marija Kapitanovic. In the meeting Minister Berisha and Ambassador Kapitanovic was talked on good relations among both states of Rep. of Kosovo and Rep. Of Croatia especially mentioning good relations between Ministry for Kosovo Security Force respectively Kosovo Security Force and Ministry of Defense of Croatia and Croatia’s Armed Forces. Minister, Rrustem Berisha, primarily briefed to Croatia`s Ambassador with current inherited situation in MKSF/KSF assessing that this Ministry was successful and future plans about development and promotion of the KSF as well on plans for the KSF transformation into Kosovo Armed Forces.

Pristina, 27 Sept 2017. Today, Minister of Ministry for Kosovo Security Force (MKSF), Mr. Rrustem Berisha for the first time hosted for a meeting KFOR Commander, General Giovanni Fungo. On this occasion, Minister Berisha expressed that during his mandate will be engaged on further promotion of their excellent relation reached so far between Ministry for the KSF and KFOR. Also, Minister Berisha said that despite development and promotion of the KSF, we are working in the transformation plan of the KSF into Kosovo Armed Forces and this will be done in full consensus with internal factor and in cooperation with strategic partners being transparent in each step of this process. Minister of KSF , Mr.Berisha concerning On his part, KFOR Commander of KFOR transformation said that creation of Kosovo Armed Forces was in interest of all country`s citizens and Peacekeeping Troops, Giovanni Fungo said that that MKSF/KSF is hardly working in order that KFOR and the KSF have concrete cooperation not transformation get support and full consensus within only having official meeting and exchanges but , also the country and support from strategic partners with with joint field exercises and activities where KFOR whom we will be in full coordination , opened and and the KSF special Units are conducting joint transparent. exercises. On his part, Croatia Ambassador, Mrs. Kapitanoviq after wishing Minister for the new assignment said At the end, General Fungo informed that they are in that Republic of Kosovo’s Institutions already are the eve of completion of planning process for some informed with stamina of the Croatia country. joint activities which will be conducted in This bilateral cooperation a very successful one , said cooperation with KFOR and the KSF and this kind of Ambassador Kapitanoviq will continue in the future cooperation will be going on even in the future. and the areas of cooperation will be extended.

MKSF NEWSLETTER 15 SEPTEMBER, 2017

American Embassy donated to the KSF Minister of KSF, Rrustem Berisha hosted for a equipment in value of 9.2 milion US dollars meeting Italy`s Ambassador in Kosovo, Piero Cristoforo Sardi Pristine, 29th Sept 2017. In the barracks environment “Adem Jashari” in Pristina, today was organized a hand over ceremony of Harris equipment donation from U.S Embassy in Kosovo to Communication Company in value of 9.2 $ millions. Attended: Minister for Kosovo Security Force, Mr. Rrustem Berisha, Commander of Kosovo Security Force, LTG. Rrahman Rama, Dep/ American Ambassador , Colleen Hylande, Military Advisor to Minister , Col.Fadil Hadergjonaj, Chief of Staff of Land Force Command (LFC), Col. Naim Haziri and other representatives of American Embassy in Kosovo and superiors from the Kosovo Security Force. Participants of this ceremony closely get to know with these equipment and their function by Dep/Commander of Communication Company Lt. Jeton Ahmeti and Dep/Ambassador Mrs. Colleen Hylande, who together spoke on importance of these equipment not only for Communication Coy but also Pristina, 28th Sept 2017. Minister of Kosovo Security of the KSF in Force (MKSF) , Mr.Rrustem Berisha , today , hosted generally. at Ministry , for the first time since his appointment , the Ambassador of Rep. Of Italy , Mr. Piero Cristoforo Sardi with collaborators.In the joint meeting, Minister Berisha and ambassador Sardi talked on good relations between Italy and Kosovo as state as well for good and productive cooperation between the Kosovo Security Force and Armed Forces of Italy. Primarily, Minister Berisha extended thanks for people and Government of Italy for the constant support given to Kosovo as well extraordinary contribution of military contingent within KFOR in maintaining peace and security in our country. Further, Minister Berisha briefed to Italian diplomat, Mr. Sardi on the KSF development and future plans mentioning the fact that immediate issue are the KSF development into Armed Forces for which the

On this occasion, Minister of KSF, Mr. Rrustem highest Institutions take decision when there will be Berisha has thanked American Embassy in Kosovo a full consensus within the country and coordination for cooperation and open-handed assistance with strategic partners and friend countries of continuously to the KSF. “This donation to the KSF Republic of Kosovo. is very important since the Force becomes modern On his part, Italian Ambassador, Mr.Piero Sardi with such equipment. Hopefully in the future will be using this kind of system in direct communication congratulated Minister Berisha for his new with partners and allies”. assignment and confirmed, again, stamina of Italian Afterwards, guests were also visited by members of State for keeping on cooperation and concretization the KSF, who for usage of these equipment are of it with activities and joint exchanges. attending training organized by American instructors. MKSF NEWSLETTER 16 SEPTEMBER, 2017

General Rama thanked the US Deputy Ambassador and through it the US Embassy in Kosovo for the donation and continued support that the United States has given over the years to advancing the Kosovo Security Force. Afterwards, guests visited the KSF members who to be made capable for using of these equipment are attending organized training by American Instructors. Whereas U. S Dep/Ambassador expressed to be content with expectations as well highly appreciated engagement of the members to training, saying that an appropriate usage of these equipment cannot be done without having such a training. It`s good to see that the KSF members have strong will to learn all the stuff. It shall be mentioned that the U. S Embassy has assisted Kosovo Security Force at all stages of development either in equipment or trainings for professional upgrading of the Kosovo Security Force.

The new KSF recruits swear for service to the Homeland

Pristina, 29 Sept 2017 - With a magnificent ceremony at the barracks "Adem Jashari" in Prishtina, today solemnly under the intonation of the state anthem were sworn in 16 new recruits of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF), "Generation 2021" who started the cadets' education at the Center for University Studies (USC). Primarily, in front of the audience; guests, soldiers and family members of the recruits, cadet cadres of the KSF drilled for the oath ceremony which was run by Commander of Doctrine and Training Command, Brigadier General Enver Cikaqi. The young recruits - future officers who have chosen to serve the country, Commander of the Kosovo Security Force, Lieutenant General Rrahman Rama addressed to them with these words: "Thank you for joining to our family, joint mission .I assure you that you are doing the noblest thing you can do, prepare for the protection of our citizens, preserve democratic values, and contribute for a better world for our children.” Further, KSF commander said; "We should not complain, but work hard and professionally and not give up before the challenges that we face. As a society we have advanced a lot in building our capacities, but, also, we have a lot of work to do. All this journey has been made thanks to our cooperation and support from our allies and partners, especially from the United States. Also, General Rama spoke about the transformation process of the KSF into the Armed Forces: "Now we are ahead of another challenge; transformation of the KSF into the Armed Forces. This process is entirely in the hands of our political leaders for what I am convinced that they will find the best way of strategic decision- making. " At the end of his speech, the commander of the KSF, General Rama, asked from the new cadets: "During the next four years you will be educated, held and trained as a leader, but in no way compromising your duty, honor and homeland. Respect for values and standards will make you better in the army, in the family, and in society. " During this event, the Commander of TRADOC, Brigadier General Enver Cikaqi, addressed a retrospective presentation of the cadets' education: "The Center for University Studies has already become a tradition in the education of new officers, with the results of which we are all proud. Already, in the Kosovo Security Force, we count a total of 105 officers promoted by this center, who are doing excellent work in their units. " At the end of his speech, TRADOC Commander congratulated the USC leadership, Officers, and Non- Commissioned Officers who work with the cadets because as General said to them is entrusted the future of Officers and subsequently leadership future of our Force. In the end, recruits, first year cadets of study, officers, family members and other guests swore and signed a service contract at the KSF. This year, 16 new recruits have been admitted and started academic year, among of them two comes from the Republic of Albania. This generation is expected to complete studies in 2021.