It is a special pleasure to be with you this evening as we mark the National Day of the Republic of Austria.
On behalf of the entire people of the Republic of Kosovo, allow me to convey my warmest wishes to the Republic of Austria and all its citizens.
Austria’s National Day, observed annually on October 26th, commemorates a pivotal moment in the country’s history: the adoption, in 1955, of the Federal Constitutional Law on Permanent Neutrality, following the restoration of Austria’s full sovereignty. Yesterday, Austria marked this day for the 61st time since it was established as an official holiday. This day symbolizes the freedom, independence, and determination of a state to build its future upon the principles of peace and coexistence.
Distinguished guests,
Tonight, alongside the celebration of Austria’s National Day, we also celebrate the enduring friendship between our two countries—the Republic of Kosovo and the Republic of Austria. This friendship is built upon shared values, such as freedom, democracy, respect for human rights, and a commitment to peace and partnership. Austria has stood by Kosovo during the most difficult periods of our history. It was among the first states to recognize the independence of the Republic of Kosovo and has made a valuable contribution to the processes of state-building, the strengthening of institutions, and the consolidation of our international standing.
Austria’s contribution to maintaining peace and security in our country—through its participation in NATO’s peacekeeping mission, KFOR—is further proof of its commitment to the stability of Kosovo and our entire region. At the same time, Austria has been a staunch supporter of our European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations, standing by our side on the path toward a secure, democratic future integrated into European structures. For all of this, I express my deepest gratitude to the Republic of Austria, its institutions, and its citizens.
I am confident that the relations between our two countries will continue to strengthen and deepen even further. There is great potential for expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including education, science, culture, technology, the economy, and innovation. Investing in these areas will create new opportunities for our citizens, bring our societies even closer together, and add a new dimension to the Kosovo–Austria partnership.
I firmly believe that, building upon the friendship cultivated over the years, mutual trust, and our shared values, we will continue to construct bridges of cooperation that serve both current and future generations.
Dear friends,
I wish the Austrian people peace, well-being and continued prosperity, and I wish the Republic of Austria success in all its endeavors and in its contribution toward a peaceful and united Europe.
Happy National Day to the Republic of Austria!
Thank you very much.
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