Kosovo's heads of state honor sacrifice for freedom and independence

2026-02-17 08:31:00, Ekonomi CNA

With the solemn raising of the state flag, Kosovo began the official ceremonies marking the 18th anniversary of independence. The flag of the Republic of Kosovo was raised in the courtyard of the Government building in Pristina, in the presence of the highest state leaders, including President Vjosa Osmani, Prime Minister Albin Kurti and the Speaker of the Parliament, Albulena Haxhiu.

President Osmani described this day as a moment of reflection and pride and honored the sacrifice of those who contributed to the freedom and statehood of Kosovo.

"The sacrifice has been centuries-old, there have been entire generations who have given everything so that today we can enjoy the state of Kosovo. We express our deep respect for the historic president, Ibrahim Rugova, the sacrifice of the Jashari family and all those who gave their lives so that we can enjoy our state," she said.

Prime Minister Kurti emphasized the country's progress in strengthening institutions and developing the economy, while Parliament Speaker Haxhiu said that "today and every other day, we honorably remember all those who gave their lives for independence."

At the solemn session of the Government, Kurti also mentioned the former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army who are being tried by the Specialist Chambers in The Hague. He said that the declaration of independence cannot be commemorated without honoring those who contributed to the building of the state.

"The contribution of each of them to freedom and independence is precious and history will be the one that will make the right judgment," Kurti said.

He added that this year of independence finds Kosovo at the beginning of a new governing mandate, so "there is a lot of work to do."

"Teachers and students, doctors and workers, women and men, girls and boys, we all must give our maximum. Everyone expects this. Let's make them proud by working and strengthening the state ," Kurti said.

Kosovo's independence was declared on February 17, 2008 by local institutions, after a long period of international administration and status negotiations.

It was strongly supported by the United States and most European Union countries. Since then, Kosovo has made progress in building state institutions, consolidating security with NATO support, and expanding international recognition.

However, the state continues to face major challenges, including opposition to independence from Serbia and several other countries, as well as obstacles to membership in international organizations. /REL