Pristina, 11 february - Lieutenant General Markus Bentler, Commander of Kosovo Forces (COM KFOR), welcomed yesterday Mr. Thomas Kossendey, State Secretary of German Ministry of Defense at the HQ in Film City.

COM KFOR informed about the improved security situation and political situation in Kosovo. As a result of this improvement, KFOR has adapted its structure and reached the number of 10,000 troops. 

During the meeting COM KFOR stated that the political challenges are more thorny than the military. Nevertheless, despite the adaptation of troops there will be no changes in KFORs Mission. KFOR will enhance partnership with the international stakeholders and Institutions in Kosovo. Further substantial topics were discussed as the way ahead for KFOR, current operations, KFOR structure and the stand up of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF). They pointed out that the KSF will be no army and not a replacement of KFOR. 

After the meeting with COM KFOR, the State Secretary had a meeting with Prime Minister Hashim Thaci, President of Parliament Jakub Krasniqi and the German Ambassador Hans-Dieter Steinbach.

Today Kossendey visits the Multi-National Battle Group South, the Arch Angel Monastery.