Kosovo commemorates the 16th anniversary of its declaration of independence amidst various events celebrating its journey towards statehood. State leaders have expressed gratitude to international allies and partners for their contribution to Kosovo's liberation and independence.
 |
| Many citizens in the squares of Pristina for the 16th anniversary of the declaration of Kosovo's independence. |
During a solemn session of the Assembly, Kosovo's President, Vjosa Osmani, expressed gratitude to international friends for standing with Kosovo throughout its journey, from a time when Albanians were denied every right to the declaration of independence and to the present day. She highlighted the alliance with the United States as the strongest pillar of Kosovo's statehood.
Osmani also referenced the events of September 24th, when a group of armed Serbs attacked the Kosovo Police, resulting in the death of officer Afrim Bunjaku. Three Serbian attackers were killed during clashes in Banjska of Zvecan. Kosovo blames Serbia for the attack, although Belgrade denies involvement.
She emphasized that Serbia's military and police presence in Kosovo ended once and for all in June 1999.
Meanwhile, Speaker of Parliament Glauk Konjufca stated that without international friends, Kosovo's path to independence would have been impossible. He reiterated Kosovo's accusation against Serbia for the Banjska attack and reiterated that Belgrade refuses to sign the agreement for the normalization of relations reached last year.
Earlier in the day, the Government held a meeting where Prime Minister Albin Kurti stated that, just like on the day of independence 16 years ago, Kosovo "was, is, and will be home to all citizens without distinction." He praised Kosovo's contributions to peace and security with the help of its partners.
Speaking of the victims of the last war in Kosovo in 1998-1999, he emphasized that honoring them should continue to pave the way for state-building.
"We are grateful to all those who contributed to our liberation struggle and independence process. Special thanks to our international partners and allies for our joint journey to consolidate the state and international subjectivity of our Republic," said Kurti.
Following the Government meeting, Kurti, together with President Vjosa Osmani and Speaker of Parliament Glauk Konjufca, raised the flag in front of the Government building.
The United States congratulated Kosovo on its 16th anniversary of independence. Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised the "enduring partnership" between the two states, based on mutual understanding, shared values, and friendship between the two peoples.
"As you continue to make progress towards strengthening democratic institutions and promoting the rule of law, we will continue to support a multi-ethnic Kosovo," said Blinken.
Kosovo declared independence on February 17, 2008. According to the list published on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora website, over 100 countries worldwide have recognized it.
In its 15 years of statehood, Kosovo has become a member of several international organizations, including financial and sports ones such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the Olympic Committee, the Union of European Football Associations, and the International Federation of Association Football.
However, Kosovo is not yet a member of the United Nations, the European Union, the Council of Europe, the World Trade Organization, among others.