The Acting President of the Republic of Kosovo, Albulena Haxhiu, attended tonight the reception held on the occasion of the end of the mandate of the Head of EULEX, Major General Giovanni Pietro Barbano.
In her address, Acting President Haxhiu said that the relationship between Kosovo and EULEX has developed around difficult and sensitive issues.
She highlighted the work of the Mission in areas of particular importance to our society, including transitional justice and the institutional response to domestic and gender-based violence.
“Precisely because of the sensitivity of these issues, dialogue has always been important. Institutions serve citizens best when they speak clearly, listen carefully and hold the accountability to its citizens at the center of the action,” said the Acting President Haxhiu.
Acting President Haxhiu said that during his mandate as Head of EULEX, Giovanni Pietro Barbano has shouldered great responsibility during a sensitive period.
“Kosovo appreciates their professionalism, institutional seriousness and respectful approach. I would like to express my appreciation for the responsibility you have shown to this task, as well as for your service and cooperation”, emphasized Acting President Haxhiu.
She further added that international missions, by their nature, are temporary, adding that institutions are not.
“Therefore, the true measure of cooperation is not how long a mission lasts, but how much stronger, more accountable and more independent state institutions become. In Kosovo, institutions have been strengthened in capacity, professionalism and responsibility, and continue to carry out the constitutional and democratic duties that belong to the Republic”, said the Acting President.
At the end, Acting President President Haxhiu wished Mr. Giovanni Pietro Barbano success in his future engagements.
“I hope that you will take with you from Kosovo the memory of a country young in its statehood, clear in its democratic will and deeply committed to justice and a European future”, emphasized Acting President Haxhiu.
