Kosovo intends to submit an application for EU membership in the near future.
"This year we are planning to apply for candidate status for the European Union," Kosovan Prime Minister Albin Kurti said on Friday after a meeting with Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Prishtina.
Markus Wehner
Political correspondent in Berlin.
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They also support the aspired membership of Ukraine, which has been affected by an "absurd invasion" by Russia.
The EU heads of state and government want to hold a summit meeting in June to discuss whether to give Ukraine the status of a candidate country.
In the face of the Russian threat, the Republic of Moldova and Georgia had also recently requested the same.
Last but not least, Chancellor Scholz repeatedly made it clear that the new applications should not ignore the EU plans of the Balkan states.
"The EU is our destiny," said Kurti after his meeting with Scholz.
You want to join faster than previously planned.
The Chancellor had previously emphasized that Prishtina must push ahead with reconciliation with Belgrade.
"It is important for Kosovo that the EU-led dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia progresses," said Scholz.
"In times like these, the value of peace and security is once again made clear to us," added the Chancellor, referring to the Ukraine war. Kosovo and Serbia must "find a political solution with a comprehensive, sustainable agreement that also contributes to regional stability contributes".
Scholz acknowledged the clear stance of the government in Prishtina on the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine.
"Through their support of all measures and sanctions, Albin Kurti and the government of Kosovo have shown that Kosovo, as a reliable partner, stands closely by our side and by the side of the European and international community," said the Chancellor.