The President of the Republic of France, Nicolas Sarkozy, has sent a congratulatory telegram to the President of the Republic of Kosovo, Mrs. Atifete Jahjaga, on the occasion of the anniversary of the independence of Kosovo.
In the telegram it is said:
Madam President,
Kosovo celebrates today the fourth birthday of its independence. I wish that on this special day to address, on my behalf and on behalf of the French people, my congratulations.
The year 2011 was marked with the launch of the dialogue between Prishtina and Belgrade, under the supervision of the European Union. I am glad for these first results, useful for the people, and the constructive approach adopted by the Kosovo authorities. It is good to maintain this positive dynamic and not to allow the voices of withdrawal in itself which are emerging from both sides in a difficult economic and social context. I count on your commitment and political courage to support with all your weight the continuation of the dialogue and finding compromises necessary for regional reconciliation and for European rapprochement of the two countries. This is for the European future of Kosovo and the stability throughout the Balkans. The news of the upcoming closure of the international civilian office and the possible reconfiguration of the EULEX mission emphasize the goal of Kosovo to become a “normal” state without international supervision. These are positive steps which support your aspiration to exercise full sovereignty and which we strongly support. Kosovo can count on the support of France and the European Union for this task.
Many challenges remain: the establishment of a sound financial situation, to lay the basics of a sustainable economic development, to consolidate the achievements of the Ahtisaari Plan, to initiate a credible strategy for peaceful integration of the north of Kosovo, to fight more determined against corruption and organized crime, the leadership of electoral reform. I am aware of your action set to send Kosovo into the international community and to become a modern state. I appreciate your willingness to act for the unification of all the citizens of Kosovo, whatever their ethnic origin or religious affiliation.
You can be confident that France will stand by your side to help you achieve these noble ambitions.
Please, accept, Madam President, the assurance of my highest consideration.
President Jahjaga was also congratulated by the President of the Republic of Italy, Giorgio Napolitano.
In the felicitation it is written:
“On the occasion of the National Day, I am pleased to convey, on behalf of the Italian people and on my behalf, the most fervent wishes of prosperity for the people of Kosovo.
Since the independence, Kosovo has shown that it can face the challenges of democracy and the rule of law. I am convinced that your country will testify the same responsibility also within regional cooperation. This will allow Kosovo to successfully start the European path, where it is fully supported by Italy. The initiation of the visa dialogue with the European Union represents a decisive advancement and should provide an important signal for the needed reforms.
In this spirit, I express my best wishes for your welfare and the welfare of your people.
Queen Elizabeth also congratulated President Jahjaga on the Day of Independence
In the congratulatory letter it is written:
“It is my great pleasure to send Your Excellency my congratulations for the celebration of your National Day, along with my best wishes for the happiness and prosperity of the Government and people of Kosovo in the coming year.”