France–Kosovo relations
France–Kosovo relations are the bilateral relations between the French Republic and the Republic of Kosovo. When Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia on 17 February 2008, France became one of the first countries to announce officially about recognition of sovereign Kosovo. France has an embassy in Pristina. Kosovo has an embassy in Paris. The two countries enjoy very good and friendly relations. Political relations For many years, France has played an important role in finding a solution to the issue of Kosovo's status. Accordingly, French Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Bernard Kouchner was the first UN Special Representative of the Secretary General for Kosovo when the United Nations took over from Serbia in June 1999 in administration of the territory. This involvement, both civilian and military, has continued ever since, promoting democratisation, compliance with the rights of all communities and especially the Serbian community, now very much a minority, and a European rapprochement. France's presence has remained quite considerable within UNMIK and KFOR, with more than 2,000 soldiers out of a total of 16,000 (i.e. the second-largest contingent). From a political standpoint, as a member of the Contact Group, France has played a key role in the negotiations on