At the official reception marking U.S. Independence Day, the Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo, Anu Prattipati, praised Kosovo as a model of partnership that yields tangible results.

Speaking at the July 4th celebration, Prattipati emphasized that the partnership between the United States and Kosovo is not solely about what America achieves for itself. “It is about how American strength helps empower its partners, and Kosovo is a clear example of this,” she stated.

Prattipati noted that this was her first time celebrating U.S. Independence Day in Kosovo, adding that when she arrived last summer as Deputy Chief of Mission, she did not expect to be serving as Chargé d’Affaires for this occasion. “It is an honor to serve in this role,” she said.

She also marked the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, the oldest branch of the American military, highlighting its role in the fight for independence. “This year, that same U.S. Army trained side by side with the Kosovo Security Force in Defender 25, the largest U.S. Army exercise in Europe — with Kosovo as a host nation. This is more than a symbol of our friendship; it is deeply meaningful. It is a testament to the strength of our security partnership. Together, we are safer and stronger.”

Prattipati further underlined that, thanks to Kosovo’s unwavering commitment and alignment with U.S. policy priorities, both nations are stronger and more secure.

“We’ve worked together to protect Americans and Kosovars from cybercriminals, raised our voices against antisemitism, and most recently, stood united in our determination to prevent malicious actors from acquiring nuclear weapons,” she said. She also noted that Kosovo has been among the United States’ strongest supporters in its efforts to protect national borders.

“We are friends and partners working together not just to strengthen our countries, but to make the region stronger, more secure, and more prosperous. And we understand Kosovo’s journey. Your story resembles ours. We have walked this path before, and we continue walking it with you,” Prattipati concluded.