Honorable Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentleman,
Kosovo, 15 years of Independence!
Kosovo, a free and independent state, is the fulfillment of the legacy of Ibrahim Rugova and Adem Jashari.
It was the beginning of a new era, where the state of Kosovo was designed as a modern, democratic, forward-looking state, with an unwavering Euro-Atlantic will.
The Republic of Kosovo, a sovereign and independent state, has demonstrated with facts, maturity and prudence in its views.
In these 15 years, Kosovo has managed to respect and honor the promise it made to the world, through the signers of independence, that it was and will be a factor for peace and stability in Southeast Europe.
Albania’s fraternal bond with Kosovo is natural. We are a nation divided into two states, so we share losses and victories, pains and successes.
Albania has supported and will continue to support the Republic of Kosovo in its membership in international organizations and will maximally intensify efforts for further recognition of its legitimate independence. Our strategic partnership must be deepened even further, for the benefit of our countries, our nation.
The unsparing support from the European Union and the United States of America, for us and for the entire Balkans, is a political as well as a geographical guarantee, that the future of the countries of the region is not the one of wars and divisions, but of dialogue and cooperation.
Kosovo’s application in the EU membership process and the passing of the visa liberalization proposal, reinforced our belief that the future of the Albanian nation will be that of being together in the big European family.
Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified aggression against Ukraine, as well as the attempts to extend the conflict to the Balkan region, make us understand even better today, how important it is for the Albanian factor in the Balkans, to be united in its views.
The recently created situation during the serious provocations in the north of Kosovo was a clear indication that we have no more time to lose. Albania supports and appreciates the dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia, with the mediation of the Europen Union and the United States of America and is a staunch supporter of reaching a comprehensive agreement, which will have to focus on mutual recognition and respect for minorities.
In these 15 years, Albania has proudly seen the birth and growth of the state of Kosovo. I am fully convinced that in the years to come, Albania will see with equal pride the Euro-Atlantic journey of the state of Kosovo; a journey which will fulfill the dream of every Albanian inside and outside our lands.
Congratulations Kosovo!