Governor of the state of Iowa Kim Reynolds said on Monday that the state she leads is open to expanding cooperation with Kosovo in the fields of security, education, and commerce.

The American governor made these statements at a press conference in Pristina, together with the President of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani, following the signing of an agreement for the continuation of cooperation between the sister states.

The two countries signed a twinning agreement in 2013.

Osmani stated that the new agreement demonstrates a commitment to opening new chapters in bilateral relations in “various fields of mutual interest, including education, culture, tourism, agriculture, trade, and the energy sector”.

“The agreement will provide tools for enhanced coordination between our two countries, including in the field of defense, an essential collaboration between the Kosovo Security Force and the Iowa National Guard,” said Osmani.

She added that the citizens of Kosovo will directly benefit from the agreement.

Osmani also addressed the current situation in Kosovo and stated that the authorities are committed to overcoming all challenges in the field of security.

“Kosovo, as always, is fully committed to long-term peace and stability in the country and the region, in full coordination with our allies.”

In May 2021, the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) troops, together with members of the Iowa National Guard, embarked on a joint mission in Kuwait.

This was the first foreign mission for the KSF.

The two countries have previously cooperated in business and educational exchanges.

They have also been active in the “Women in Energy” program.

In 2021, 26 individuals from Kosovo completed a two-year energy-related study program at Des Moines Area Community College.