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By Dr. Dorian Koçi*
At a time when the momentum for international recognition of Kosovo’s independence appeared to have diminished, the recent announcement of recognition by Sudan—following Kenya’s recognition just days earlier—sends a clear signal that Kosovo’s diplomacy is regaining traction on the global stage. With Sudan’s decision, the number of countries recognizing Kosovo has now reached 119, marking a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing state-building process and efforts to consolidate its international subjectivity.
In the official statement, President Vjosa Osmani described the move as “the beginning of a grand partnership,” emphasizing that diplomatic relations with Sudan will pave the way for new cooperation across multiple sectors. The agreement was finalized during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where Sudan’s Foreign Minister confirmed the president’s decision to formally recognize Kosovo.
This development comes after several years without new recognitions—since Israel’s in 2021—and highlights the increasing importance that Kosovo is placing on Africa and the Middle East as strategic regions for expanding its international recognition.
Nonetheless, these recent recognitions should not overshadow the substantial challenges that remain. Despite Kosovo’s largely Muslim population, many Arab countries—particularly members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation—have remained cautious or undecided in their stance on Kosovo’s independence. Of the 57 member states of the OIC, only a limited number have recognized Kosovo, among them Turkey, which has been a staunch supporter since day one.
This reluctance on the part of Arab countries has, in the past, drawn criticism toward both Albanian and Kosovar diplomacy, often deemed too passive and insufficiently proactive in lobbying these states. A common misconception has been the assumption that shared religious identity would be enough to secure automatic support from the Islamic world—an assumption that has proven misguided. Arab states, like most sovereign nations, act primarily based on national interests, strategic calculations, and geopolitical considerations, often shaped by their relationships with major global actors, including Russia, China, and Serbia itself.
In this context, it becomes evident that the construction of a more active, stable, and targeted diplomatic strategy toward the Middle East and Africa is essential. Albania and Kosovo must enhance their diplomatic presence in these regions—currently limited to a handful of embassies—and intensify bilateral visits and partnerships in the economic, cultural, and educational spheres, thereby establishing a deeper connection beyond political rhetoric. In these efforts to broaden Kosovo’s international recognition, strategic partnerships must be fully leveraged. The role of Turkish diplomacy, in this regard, has been and continues to be vital. As one of the first countries to recognize Kosovo’s independence in 2008, Turkey has consistently positioned itself as an unwavering ally, offering not only political support in international forums but also concrete assistance in the fields of security, education, and economic development. On the diplomatic front, Ankara has frequently served as both mediator and advocate for Kosovo’s cause, especially in regions where Pristina has had limited access, such as the Middle East and Africa. The Antalya Diplomacy Forum—where Sudan’s recognition was finalized and possibly where discussions with Syria may begin—stands as a clear example of Turkey’s ability to create platforms that strengthen Kosovo’s international standing.
Deepening this strategic partnership with Turkey—a key actor in the geopolitical architecture of Eurasia—should remain a fundamental orientation of Kosovo’s foreign policy in the coming years.
Meanwhile, Serbia has responded sharply to the recent recognitions, claiming that they threaten its relations with African states. This response is a clear indication that the recognitions carry real weight and are not merely symbolic gestures. Each additional recognition strengthens Kosovo’s position in its pursuit of membership in international organizations such as Interpol, UNESCO, and potentially, in the future, the United Nations itself.
Kosovo is reasserting itself on the global diplomatic map. Moving forward will require a realistic, balanced, and coordinated approach between Pristina and Tirana—one that seizes every opportunity to strengthen recognition and deepen strategic friendships, beyond ideological divisions or cultural stereotypes.
*Dr. Dorian Koçi, former Director of National historical Museum of Albania (2017-2023) is a historian and author, with expertise in Southeast European history, international relations, and cultural diplomacy.
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