Hoti welcomed to a meeting the MEP Julie Ward

Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Rexhep Hoti, along with the directors of the Departments of Culture and Youth, met with MEP Julie Ward, UK representative in the European Parliament.

Hoti, while welcoming MEP, stood in appreciation for the great contribution that UK has made and is making to the Republic of Kosovo.

Since this was the first visit of the MEP Ward in our country, Deputy Minister informed Ms. Ward about the challenges and state-building achievements of Kosovo, especially with the work, contribution and programs supported by MCYS in this regard, of state capacity building. He informed the MEP about work in the fields of culture, youth, sport and heritage, which are covered by the ministry, the legal infrastructure by which are regulated these areas up to concrete projects.

With emphasis, Hoti informed the MEP about work and preparation of the legal basis in the interest of the youth of the country, the Kosovo Strategy and Action Plan for Youth and up to the support projects that directly affect young people in favor of their development and progress.

Taking into consideration also the great commitment of Ms. Ward towards Civil Society, Deputy Minister Hoti emphasized that the priority of the ministry is precisely this area which has not enough funds. Although MCYS is contributing in concrete support through various projects of civil society, much remains to be done.

Among other things, Hoti said that as a new and small state there are many difficulties, saying that Kosovo is already in the final stage of the accession process in UNESCO. He also mentioned the restriction of the freedom of movement in Europe, emphasizing that the Kosovo’s youth is hit which constitutes the majority of the country's population.

"Although we have Europe within also in the executive meaning of the word, we continue to be the most isolated country in Europe without having the visa-free status," said Hoti.

Meanwhile, MEP Ward, by thanking the Deputy Minister Hoti for the reception, said that she is impressed by her visit to Kosovo. She said she is staying in Kosovo to learn more about our culture and tradition.

Finally, MEP promised to be a strong voice in support of Kosovo's interests in the European Parliament, on the issue of visa liberalization and deepening cooperation, exchange of experiences and support to MCYS at the EP.