Recognize the Independence of Kosovo! That was the appeal of President Bajram Begaj to the states participating in the 78th Session of the UN Assembly. In his speech, Begaj said that Kosovo has managed to heal “many deep wounds” from the tragic past and that it has proven that pain does not need to give rise to enmity. However, as Begaj said, Kosovo is still waiting for recognition of its independence from many countries.

“Kosovo is still waiting for recognition of its independence from many countries. I hope that these countries will soon recognize Kosovo’s contribution to a fairer, more peaceful global community and give Kosovo the recognition it does deserve. Recognize the Independence of Kosovo!”, said Begaj

Begaj also asked for the respect of the rights of the Albanians in the Presheva Valley in the South of Serbia, as he said that the rights of the Serbs in Kosovo reflect European norms. He also expressed concern about the inactive residential addresses of Albanians in the Presheva Valley.

“The rights of Serbs in Kosovo reflect European norms and values, the same should apply to the Albanian minority in the Presheva Valley, in the south of Serbia. “Unfortunately, we still remain concerned about the inactiveness of their residential addresses and the lack of significant investments and economic incentives in that region,” said the President.

The Albanian head of state considered the General Assembly of the United Nations as a unique platform for global cooperation that offers hope for a better world. He emphasized Albania’s role in the international arena, both regionally and globally, in search of peace and security.

“Albania, despite being a small nation with a new democracy, has a history marked by wars that it did not choose, as well as invasions that it neither requested nor accepted. Although painful memories, they have taught invaluable lessons. It is precisely because of its history that Albania attaches great importance to international law as its main protection. We firmly embrace the principles of the rules-based international order, where relations between nations are based on respect rather than absolute power.

This commitment is why we have consistently and unequivocally condemned military aggression against Ukraine and will continue to do so. Despite our size, Albania has been actively engaged in the international arena, both regionally and globally, in search of peace and security. However, we recognize that sustainable development is an integral component of achieving international peace and security. On the other hand, sustainable and meaningful development is unattainable without the foundation of true peace and security”, declared the Albanian head of state.

Focusing on the war in Ukraine, Begaj considered it an unjustified and unprovoked act of aggression. According to the President, this “absurd” war has directly and indirectly affected various dimensions of sustainable development, not only for Ukraine and the region, but for the entire globe.

“This senseless war has disrupted international markets, caused economic instability, destroyed infrastructure, including transportation networks and industrial facilities, and diverted attention and resources from addressing common development challenges, and implementing the 2030 Agenda. War on Ukraine has strained regional stability and affected cooperation between countries. It has highlighted geopolitical tensions and strained diplomatic relations, hindering international cooperation on sustainable development initiatives. The widespread effects of war, including displacement, migration and economic and security concerns, as we have seen, can have global consequences that hinder progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” said Begaj.

The President announced that Albania supports the reform of the United Nations and its main bodies, with the aim of strengthening this Organization.

“It is time to commit ourselves unconditionally, fully and in good faith to achieving meaningful reform, with the Security Council at its center.” No country, government or individual can be above the law.

“Albania supports the reform of the United Nations and its main bodies, with the aim of strengthening the Organization’s ability to address the current challenges and emerging threats to international peace, security and development”, said Begaj.

The head of state also focused on the problem that the whole world is facing, climate change. He called for this challenge to be dealt with effectively, protecting natural resources.

“In the face of climate change, this challenge is essential through the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. I hope that my country and our nations can effectively deal with this challenge you have protected our natural resources and cultural heritage. Our approach must include respect for the diversity of these resources and cooperation with communities engaged in both environmental issues and cultural preservation efforts. I strongly believe that this approach strengthens democracy — the only political system capable of ensuring sustainable and just development. Only in such a world can our future generations find happiness and prosperity. Our joint efforts can pave the way for them for a successful cooperation in the future”, emphasized Begaj.

/k.s/