The Embassy of Kosova in Tirana hosted a reception this evening, on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the Declaration of Kosova Independence. President Begaj, present at the reception, praised the consolidation of the state of Kosova during the last 15 years.

“Kosova, 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 Kosova was designed as a modern, democratic, looking forward with an unwavering Euro-Atlantic will. The Republic of Kosova, a sovereign and independent state, has demonstrated with facts, maturity and prudence in its stances,” affirmed Albanian President.

“During these 15 years, Kosova has managed to respect and honor the promise it made to the world, through the signatories of independence, that it was and will be a factor of peace and stability in Southeast Europe. Albania’s fraternal bond with Kosova 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 Kosova membership in international organizations and will maximally intensify efforts for further recognition of its legal independence. Our strategic partnership must be deepened even further, for the benefit of our states, our nation,” he emphasized.

Begaj appreciated the support the EU and the US provide for Kosova.

“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 one of wars and divisions, but of dialogue and cooperation. Kosova’s application for EU membership and the passing of the proposal for the visa liberalization reinforced our conviction that the future of the Albanian nation will be that of being together in the big European family. The unprovoked and unjustified aggression of Russia towards 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 unified in its stances. The situation created recently during the serious provocations in the north of Kosova was a clear indication that we have no time to lose. Albania supports and appreciates the dialogue between Kosova and Serbia, with the mediation of the EU and the steadfast support of the US, for 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 Kosova. I am fully convinced that in the years to come, Albania will see with equal pride the Euro-Atlantic journey of the state of Kosova; journey which will fulfill the dream of every Albanian inside and outside our lands,” said President of Albania during the reception hosted by Kosova Embassy in Tirana.

/a,p/