Pristina:Justina Shiroka-Pula was sworn in as Kosovo's president on Wednesday after being elected by the parliament in a move that averted the need for snap elections.

According to Anadolu Agency, Shiroka-Pula secured 81 out of 83 votes during a late-night parliamentary session, thus preventing the dissolution of the 120-seat parliament and an early election.

In her inaugural speech, Shiroka-Pula expressed her honor and sense of responsibility in accepting the presidency, pledging to serve all citizens of Kosovo. Prime Minister Albin Kurti praised her election, citing it as evidence of institutional stability in Kosovo.

International congratulations followed her election, with the EU and UK expressing their support. Dirk Schuebel, the EU representative in Kosovo, anticipated collaboration with Shiroka-Pula to bring Kosovo closer to the EU. British Ambassador Jonathan Hargreaves looked forward to strengthening the UK's partnership with Kosovo under her leadership.

Shiroka-Pula, aged 73, is an economist who has led the Academy of Sciences and Arts of Kosovo since December 2025. She previously served as the minister of energy and mining from 2008 to 2011. She becomes the third woman to hold the presidency in Kosovo, following Atifete Jahjaga and Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu.