“The presence of NATO troops in Kosovo is not only a guarantee of our security, but it is also a barrier against any attempt to undermine the peace and stability for which we have all worked and sacrificed for a long time,” said the country’s president, Vjosa Osmani, on Tuesday at a press conference with NATO chief Mark Rutte. After meeting with the NATO secretary general, Osmani said that Belgrade is trying to destabilize Kosovo and the entire region. She added that it is important to increase the presence and equipment for border protection. More than 25 years ago, most of us who met today were young people or children who came out to welcome NATO soldiers. Over these 25 years, together with you, we have transformed Kosovo into a country with democracy. NATO was founded on values, which is why the goal of membership is a necessity. It is important that this region does not have security vacuums, she said.