Tuerk, who chose Kosovo for his first state visit in 2009, told the press at Brdo pri Kranju that the two countries had good relations and that the return visit by Jahjaga was meant above all as a contribution to deepening cooperation in all fields.

He explained that trade stood at around EUR 90m in 2010 to increase by 12% in 2011. Slovenia wishes for more trade balance, with Tuerk stressing the importance of Slovenian investments in Kosovo, whose amount is so far estimated at EUR 200m.

Slovenia supports Kosovo's efforts for a European future and is in favour of negotiations on visa liberalisation, of a legal framework for further cooperation with the EU and of Kosovo continuing to operate as an active factor of stability in SE Europe, Tuerk explained.

Jahjaga said that Tuerk had promised to her support on Kosovo's path towards European and other integrations and in the recognition of Kosovo by other countries.

According to her, dialogue with Serbia has so far already brought three agreements, which are making life simpler for the local population. At least another five bilateral agreements are expected by the end of the year.

Jahjaga said that Kosovo is open to different solutions as part of the mentioned talks, while not knowing what a course Serbia will take in the future.

European integration is the only way for Kosovo, possibly in a package with neighbouring countries with which it has a shared history. Jahjaga believes that with time Serbia and Kosovo will recognise each other, as this is the only way towards stability for the entire region.

Tuerk noted that talks with Serbia are a parallel process to the talks on Kosovo's EU integration. Progress with either of the two is not a condition for a continuation of talks with the other, he explained adding that the parallel element should provide for a mutual boost.

Kosovo's president will continue her official visit on Tuesday and meet Speaker Pavel Gantar and Prime Minister Borut Pahor.