Kosovo on Wednesday began creating its own secret service, appointing former police officer Bashkim Smakaj as director of the Kosovo Intelligence Agency (KIA).

President Fatmir Sejdiu and Prime Minister Hashim Thaci made the appointment at a ceremony in Pristina, two months later than expected since Kosovo had to wait for international approval.

President Sejdiu explained that Bashkim Smakaj has been named as the head of KIA as a result of an agreement reached during a series of talks held by the governing coalition partners that lasted several months.

Smakaj will serve as head of KIA for a five-year long term, with an option for a re-election after his first term is over, according to the law that regulated KIA functioning.

PM Hashim Thaçi praised Bashkim Smakaj while saying that he is a professional and a man who is ready to serve his country with devotion.

Mr. Smakaj said he feels very privileged for being trusted with the task.

Smakaj said the Agency “will serve all Kosovo citizens and will be open to all communities.“ He added that among the main tasks of KIA will be the collection of intelligence, counter-intelligence, fight of terrorism, war against the organized crime and drug trafficking.

Bashkim Smakaj was born in 1976 near Klina and currently lives in Prishtina. He has been serving in the Kosovo Police as the head of strategic planning and liaison between the KP and the border police.

He holds degrees in biology and political sciences from the University of Prishtina.