[17] Kosovo is home to a community of around 300 ethnic Croats concentrated in the villages of Janjevo (Janjevci), Letnica [hr; fr], Šašare, Vrnavokolo and Vrnez.
Their ancestors, Croat merchants and miners from Dubrovnik and Bosnia and Herzegovina, settled in the area rich in silver and lead mines in the 14th century.
Croatian leaders have urged both nations to continue talks aimed at normalizing relations, emphasizing the importance of this process for the broader European integration of the Western Balkans.
[20] Prime Minister Andrej Plenković has advocated for EU-mediated dialogue, highlighting mutual recognition as a key step towards peace.
Additionally, Croatia supports Kosovo's international integration and emphasizes the necessity of a stable and cooperative Balkan region for the economic and political advancement of all involved nations.
Additionally, bilateral cultural exchanges and educational initiatives have further strengthened the ties between the two nations, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation.
[23][24] Additionally, Croatia's involvement in Kosovo's economic development includes investments in infrastructure projects and collaborations in technology and energy sectors.
Croatia’s support also includes promoting regional cooperation and stability, which are key aspects of Kosovo's path to full EU membership.
For instance, the visit by Kosovo's deputy prime minister Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz to Croatia in 2023 emphasized the strong political and economic bonds.
[27][28] These engagements have facilitated significant progress in economic relations, with increased trade and business forums showcasing the potential for further collaboration.
This cooperation also extends to cultural and educational exchanges, deepening the ties between the two nations and creating a foundation for long-term diplomatic relations.