Pristina, February 17, 2018 –USAID Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia Brock Bierman met with Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj today.  The meeting highlighted USAID’s ongoing commitment to Kosovo’s growth and development, and recognized the efforts being made by the Government of Kosovo.

Assistant Administrator Bierman highlighted Kosovo’s progress toward self reliance.  He emphasized the need for a sustained focus on the rule of law; a transparent, merit-based judicial system; enhancing the business environment to bolster private sector investment; and greater efforts in the prevention of violent extremism.

Assistant Administrator Bierman also announced a new USAID grant of $1.5 million in support of Kosovo’s private sector and workforce readiness activities.  These actitives engage youth by strengthening their critical thinking skills and enhancing their employment potential.  

As Kosovo marks its 10^th anniversary of independence, it remains the youngest country in Europe with almost 65 percent of the population under the age of 35.  USAID will continue to foster economic opportunities for youth through initiatives that create jobs and provide workforce development opportunities through on-the-job trainings, internships, apprenticeships, and after-school programs.                                                                                                                                          

On behalf of the American people, USAID promotes and demonstrates democratic values abroad, and advances a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.  In support of America's foreign policy, the U.S. Agency for International Development leads the U.S. Government's international development and disaster assistance through partnerships and investments that save lives, reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance, and help people emerge from humanitarian crises and progress beyond assistance.”