Latest news with #Pristina
Reuters
22-05-2025
- Business
- Reuters
EU says it has begun to ease sanctions on Kosovo
May 22 (Reuters) - The EU's top diplomat Kaja Kallas on Thursday said the bloc has begun to lift sanctions on Kosovo, but that the process would be conditional on a sustained de-escalation of violence and hostilities in the north. The European Union placed economic curbs on the country in 2023 for its role in tensions in the Serb-dominated north, where leftist Albanian nationalist Prime Minister Albin Kurti has sought to extend government control. The bloc cut at least 150 million euros ($170 million)in funding, Reuters found. "As a sign of our commitment, I can announce that the EU has begun to gradually lift measures introduced in June 2023," Kallas told reporters in Pristina. "The decision opens the door for greater opportunities for crossovers, development and also closer ties with Europe. But it's conditional on sustained de-escalation in the North." Kallas also urged Kosovo's political parties to end disputes that have blocked the formation of a new government after February elections, saying functioning institutions were needed to secure EU membership. Kurti has repeatedly failed to secure the election of a new speaker, prompting fears of an economic backlash after months of political stalemate in one of Europe's poorest countries. Lawmakers have been meeting every 48 hours since mid-April to elect a new speaker, a step required before Kurti, who failed to win a majority in a February election, can try to form a coalition government. Kallas, who earlier on Thursday also visited Serbia, said that the 27-member bloc was opened to enlargement and wanted Kosovo to take advantage of the bloc's 6 billion euro Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. "For that to happen, Kosovo needs functioning institutions that can effectively implement reforms, and that's why I encourage all parties to break the political stalemates and swiftly form a government," she said. Both Kosovo and Serbia aim to join the European Union, but in order to make progress they need to normalise ties with each other and establish diplomatic relations. In 2013 the parties agreed to an EU sponsored dialogue, but little progress has been made. ($1 = 0.8866 euros)
Asharq Al-Awsat
12-05-2025
- General
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs Concludes Sixth Jusoor Exhibition in Kosovo
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance concluded the sixth edition of the Jusoor Exhibition in Pristina, reported the Saudi Press Agency on Monday. The 10-day event witnessed a strong turnout and broad engagement from diverse communities and nationalities, underscoring its success as a prominent cultural and advocacy initiative. Organized in cooperation with the Religious Attaché at the Saudi Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the exhibition coincided with the final rounds of the third edition of the International Competition for the Memorization of the Holy Quran in the Balkans. The exhibition featured several unique pavilions, including a traditional Najdi council, a coffee pavilion, an interactive photography area, and displays from the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Quran. A virtual reality experience, rare manuscript exhibits from the Makkah Library, and innovative electronic applications showcasing modern Islamic educational tools were also featured. Throughout the event, 10,000 copies of the Holy Quran were distributed, boasting translations of the meanings of its verses in multiple languages. The Jusoor Exhibition is part of the ministry's broader effort to build cultural bridges, promote the values of tolerance and moderation in Islam, and boost international awareness of the Kingdom's initiatives in religious and cultural outreach.
Arab News
12-05-2025
- Arab News
Jusoor exhibition in Kosovo offers a window to Saudi heritage
RIYADH: The sixth Jusoor exhibition, organized by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs in Pristina, Kosovo, offered visitors an immersive experience of the Kingdom's heritage. The event featured the aroma of incense, the flavor of authentic Saudi coffee, a traditional Najdi majlis and an interactive photo booth, according to the Saudi Press Agency. At the Saudi coffee section, visitors savored traditional Saudi hospitality with each sip, complemented by the soothing aroma of incense. The Najdi majlis stood out with its unique architectural design, reflecting the rich heritage of Najd and serving as a dedicated space for hosting guests and VIPs. The photo booth captivated visitors by offering an immersive cultural experience. Guests could wear traditional Saudi attire and pose against backdrops depicting the Kingdom's historical and Islamic landmarks, including AlUla, Diriyah and the Two Holy Mosques. Saudi Ambassador to Albania and Non-Resident Ambassador to Kosovo Faisal bin Ghazi Hifzi also toured the exhibition's pavilions and associated events, highlighting the Kingdom's cultural and religious dimensions. He said the diverse components reflect Saudi identity and highlight the Kingdom's efforts in serving Islam and Muslims. The content also promoted the values of tolerance and moderation through interactive displays blending authenticity with modernity. The ambassador praised the exhibition's outstanding organization and rich content. He commended its noble message in showcasing the Kingdom's culture and civilizational contributions, as well as its efforts in serving Islam and promoting the values of moderation. He highlighted the role of the ministry in organizing distinguished exhibitions abroad, which enhance Saudi Arabia's presence in international forums and build ties with people around the world.
Arab News
06-05-2025
- Arab News
GCC chief receives newly appointed Omani ambassador to Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia showcases heritage, digital innovation at Jusoor expo in Kosovo RIYADH: The sixth Jusoor exhibition, organized by Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Islamic Affairs at Skanderbeg Square in Pristina, Kosovo, is attracting a large number of visitors daily. The exhibition's introductory section showcases Al-Masmak Fort and Saudi coffee, highlighting authentic Saudi heritage and hospitality. The technology pavilion at the 10-day event has attracted significant interest for its modern digital innovations highlighting the Kingdom's technical progress, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday. It includes several ministry-developed applications, notably the Correct Citation app, which features a smart keyboard that accurately integrates Qur'anic verses and Prophetic hadiths, and allows them to be shared as text or images. The 3D Hajj and Umrah app offers a virtual experience simulating pilgrimage rituals in multiple languages, while the Rushd app provides a comprehensive digital library with books and Islamic content in 51 languages. Attendees praised the Kingdom's efforts in serving Islam and promoting moderation, the SPA reported. Visitors also received detailed information about the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program for Hajj and Umrah, and its role in serving pilgrims. Additionally, VR technology allows visitors to explore rare photos of Makkah and historic mosques, offering an engaging interactive experience of the Kingdom's history and holy sites. The ministry recently concluded the fifth Jusoor exhibition in Jakarta, Indonesia, which welcomed more than 1.25 million visitors from diverse backgrounds. The 10-day exhibition at Istiqlal Mosque was one of the largest cultural and advocacy events organized by the ministry outside the Kingdom. Saudi officials also distributed more than 150,000 copies of Qur'an, printed and translated into Indonesian by the King Fahd Qur'an Printing Complex in Madinah. Indonesian visitors praised the exhibition for its blend of spiritual and cultural themes, strong organization, and diverse, informative content.
Arab News
06-05-2025
- Arab News
Riyadh hospital advances breast tumor diagnosis
Saudi Arabia showcases heritage, digital innovation at Jusoor expo in Kosovo RIYADH: The sixth Jusoor exhibition, organized by Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Islamic Affairs at Skanderbeg Square in Pristina, Kosovo, is attracting a large number of visitors daily. The exhibition's introductory section showcases Al-Masmak Fort and Saudi coffee, highlighting authentic Saudi heritage and hospitality. The technology pavilion at the 10-day event has attracted significant interest for its modern digital innovations highlighting the Kingdom's technical progress, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday. It includes several ministry-developed applications, notably the Correct Citation app, which features a smart keyboard that accurately integrates Qur'anic verses and Prophetic hadiths, and allows them to be shared as text or images. The 3D Hajj and Umrah app offers a virtual experience simulating pilgrimage rituals in multiple languages, while the Rushd app provides a comprehensive digital library with books and Islamic content in 51 languages. Attendees praised the Kingdom's efforts in serving Islam and promoting moderation, the SPA reported. Visitors also received detailed information about the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Program for Hajj and Umrah, and its role in serving pilgrims. Additionally, VR technology allows visitors to explore rare photos of Makkah and historic mosques, offering an engaging interactive experience of the Kingdom's history and holy sites. The ministry recently concluded the fifth Jusoor exhibition in Jakarta, Indonesia, which welcomed more than 1.25 million visitors from diverse backgrounds. The 10-day exhibition at Istiqlal Mosque was one of the largest cultural and advocacy events organized by the ministry outside the Kingdom. Saudi officials also distributed more than 150,000 copies of Qur'an, printed and translated into Indonesian by the King Fahd Qur'an Printing Complex in Madinah. Indonesian visitors praised the exhibition for its blend of spiritual and cultural themes, strong organization, and diverse, informative content.
