Kosovo marks the 16th anniversary of the declaration of independence. State leaders have thanked allies and international partners for their contribution to Kosovo’s liberation and independence.
Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani during her speech at the solemn session of the Assembly, said that international friends stood by Kosovo throughout its journey, from the time when Albanians were denied every right, to the declaration of independence and up to now.
She described the alliance with the United States as the strongest pillar of Kosovo’s statehood.
Earlier in the day, a Government meeting was also held, where Kosovo’s Prime Minister Albin Kurti said that just as on the day when independence was declared, Kosovo “was, is, and will be the home of all citizens without distinction”.
He said that in 16 years, with the help of its partners, Kosovo has become a contributor to peace.
“With the support of our international allies and partners, we built our common home, the Republic of Kosovo, a fully-fledged parliamentary republic, with justice and equality for its citizens, contributing to peace and guaranteeing peace. A state that has democratic values, respects human rights and all minorities, social justice, and solidarity at the core of every political and social course,” Kurti said.
Speaking about the victims of the last war in Kosovo in 1998-1999, he said that by honoring them, the road to building the state must continue.
“We are grateful to all those who have contributed to our liberation struggle and to the independence process. Special thanks to our international partners and allies for our joint journey of consolidating the state and the international subjectivity of our Republic.
“May our Republic always be strong. We prevail,” said Kurti.
After the Government meeting, Kurti, together with President Vjosa Osmani, and Speaker of Parliament Glauk Konjufca, participated in raising the flag in front of the Government building.
The head of state said that in these 16 years, Kosovo has taken significant steps forward, while also remembering and honoring all the fighters of the Kosovo Liberation Army.
Parliament Speaker Konjufca said that February 17th is the most important day for the state of Kosovo,
“Today is a day of celebration, but also of reflection, gratitude, and thanks,” he said, thanking international partners who contributed to Kosovo’s independence.
The United States has congratulated Kosovo on the 16th anniversary of independence. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in his message, praised the “enduring partnership” between the two states.
According to him, the partnership between the United States and Kosovo is based on mutual understanding, shared values, and friendship between the two peoples.
“As you continue to make progress toward strengthening democratic institutions and promoting the rule of law, we will continue to support a multi-ethnic Kosovo,” Blinken said.
Kosovo declared independence on February 17, 2008.
According to the list published on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, over 100 countries worldwide have recognized it.
For 16 years of statehood, Kosovo has joined several international organizations, including financial and sports ones.
Among them: the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the Olympic Committee, the European Football Federation, and the World Football Federation.
Kosovo is not yet a member of the United Nations, the European Union, the Council of Europe, the World Trade Organization, and others.
