President of the Republic of Kosovo, Mrs. Atifete Jahjaga, and US Ambassador to Kosovo, Mr. Greg Delawie, signed today the extradition agreement between the Republic of Kosovo and United States of America.
The agreement signing ceremony was also attended by the Speaker of the Parliament of Kosovo, Mr. Kadri Veseli, Prime Minister Mr. Isa Mustafa, Justice Minister Mr. Hajredin Kuçi, Internal Affairs Minister Mr. Skender Hyseni, President of the Constitutional Court, Ms. Arta Hajrizi-Rama, Chief State Prosecutor, Mr. Aleksandër Lumezi and other institutional representatives.
At a statement issued on this occasion, President Jahjaga said:
Today with the United States of America we signed the bilateral agreement on extradition. This agreement not only marks an important step in deepening of the bilateral relations with the United States of America, it also underlines our determination for the rule of law and order in Kosovo and unreserved cooperation with our partners in this aspect.
So far, despite close cooperation with US authorities in the field of security, lack of such an extradition agreement has proved to be a legal obstacle to the successful foreclosure of cases.
With this agreement signed today, Kosovo and the USA, apart from strengthening the partnership and determination to law and order, the two states also guarantee that criminals who pose a threat to the security and order of the citizens of our countries, will be prosecuted and brought to face the justice.
Republic of Kosovo will continue to remain adamant in defence of freedom, democracy and human rights.
Honourable Ambassador Delawie, I reiterate that Kosovo will be a credible partner to the United States of America and I am pleased that during my mandate we have managed to expand this partnership and friendship further, in aspects of security and other bilateral processes.
Kosovo is grateful for the help and support of the United States of America for the consolidation of our statehood and we are proud that today we are demonstrating together our determination to cooperate in important issues for both countries.