Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar Congratulates President Osmani on the 17th Anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence
The President of the Republic of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani, has received a congratulatory message from the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Nataša Pirc Musar, on the occasion of the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence. In her message, President Pirc Musar expressed her warmest congratulations to President Osmani and to the citizens of Kosovo, emphasizing Slovenia’s continued commitment to supporting Kosovo on its journey towards progress and all-encompassing development. She reiterated Slovenia’s support for Kosovo’s reforms and international engagements, as well as for its integration into Euro-Atlantic structures. President Pirc Musar underlined the importance of stability in the Western Balkans for the development of the entire region and expressed readiness to deepen cooperation between the two countries within the framework of the Brdo-Brijuni Process and other international initiatives.
Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen congratulates President Osmani on the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence
The President of the Republic of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani, has received a congratulatory message from the President of Austria Alexander Van der Bellen, on the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence. In his message, President Van der Bellen emphasized the strong ties that unite Austria and Kosovo, noting that the two countries share common European values and similar positions on many issues. The Austrian President recalled Austria’s continued support for Kosovo and assured that this support will continue further on Kosovo’s European path.
King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulate President Osmani on the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence
The President of the Republic of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani, has received congratulatory messages from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, as well as from the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, on the occasion of the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence. In their messages, King Salman and the Crown Prince extended their warmest wishes to President Osmani and the people of Kosovo for continued progress and development.
King of Sweden Carl Gustaf R conveys his congratulations to President Osmani on the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence
On the occasion of the 17th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Kosovo, the King of Sweden Carl Gustaf R, has sent a congratulatory message to the President of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani, expressing his most sincere congratulations on this important day for the people of Kosovo. In his message, King Carl Gustaf R. expressed his best wishes to President Osmani for the prosperity and well-being of the citizens of Kosovo.
President Osmani’s Speech at the State Reception on the occasion of the 17th Anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence
Good evening everyone! Allow me to once again, on behalf of all the citizens of Kosovo, and not only for you who were here tonight, thank the children who came from the four municipalities of northern Kosovo, from villages deep in northern Kosovo, not only as a testament to their talent, but who sang the anthem of our Republic here as a testament to the sovereignty of our country and the sovereignty of every inch of our Republic. Honorable President Begaj, Honorable First Lady, Mrs. Armanda Begaj, Honorable Prime Minister Kurti, Honorable former presidents, Deputies and ministers, Honorable Speaker of the Parliament of North Macedonia, Dear citizens of the Republic of Kosovo, Very honorable partners, international friends of our country, Honorable guests not only from Kosovo but also from Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Preshevë, Medvegjë and Bujanoc and from our beloved diaspora from all over the world, February 17th 2008 changed our destiny forever. For 17 years now, this day has been marked as the most significant day in the history of our state. While tonight, on this sacred day for Kosovo, we have gathered to celebrate together the Independence Day of the Republic. 17 years ago, on this very day, the people of Kosovo realized a centuries-old dream of entire generations. A reality gained through sacrifice and a trust that we keep with dedication every day. Today, in every street and every square, in every home and every family, love for Kosovo triumphs. And this love is what has kept us and continues to keep us strong always. 17 years ago in this blessed land, Kosovo told the whole world unanimously that it would forever be free, independent and sovereign. Our freedom was not given. It was won with the blood of the sons and daughters, the brave, courageous and freedom-loving sons and daughters of this country. The memory of them, of each martyr of the KLA, and of each martyr of freedom is eternally engraved in the foundations of our Republic. Our freedom also bears the seal of our allies, who stood with our people during the most difficult days, and who continue to stand with us unwaveringly. They were with us through the darkest years of our history and continue to stand by our people, as our Republic writes new and decisive chapters in strengthening the state. On this anniversary, let us remember not only the sacrifice of those who gave everything for our freedom and independence, but also the responsibility that each of us has to build an even stronger, more democratic, and more just state. A Kosovo that always serves its citizens, that protects the rights of everyone without distinction, and that walks proudly towards the Euro-Atlantic family where it rightfully belongs. In these 17 years, Kosovo has moved forward. Our youth has excelled in sports, science, art, and every other field, showing that our future is always bright and proud. The women and girls of Kosovo, with courage and vision, have become unstoppable pillars of the development of our state. And our citizens inside and outside the borders always keep the spirit of Kosovo alive wherever they are. February 17th today and forever is a permanent commitment to build a future, where every citizen lives with dignity, with equal opportunities and full faith in their state. It is a call for each of us to work even harder every day with honesty, dedication and boundless love for this land, which gave us everything. Honorable friends, Dear citizens of Kosovo, Kosovo is our home, our pride and our greatest responsibility. Together with all of us with determination and unity, side by side with our allies, we will move forward. Today and forever, let us hold high the flag of our Republic and let us prove to the world that Kosovo is and will remain a success story, a beacon of hope and an invincible force. Happy Independence of Kosovo to everyone! Glory to all those who gave their all for this day! Long live the Republic of Kosovo, its people and our allies! Cheers!
President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan congratulates President Osmani on the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence
The President of the Republic of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani received a congratulatory message from the President of the Republic of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, on the occasion of the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence. In his message, President Erdoğan expressed his warmest congratulations to President Osmani and the people of Kosovo on his and on behalf of the Turkish nation, reiterating the historical, human and cultural ties between the two countries. He underlined Türkiye’s unwavering support to Kosovo’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and efforts to affirm itself in the international arena, recalling the role of his country as one of the first countries to recognize Kosovo’s independence. President Erdoğan emphasized the joint desire to strengthen and expand bilateral relations in all areas of mutual interest.
Madam President: Proud of our army and our police!
The President of the Republic of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani, on the 17th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Kosovo, said that our freedom is sacred and its protection is a perpetual duty. “Our freedom is sacred and its protection is a perpetual duty. Proud of our army and our police!”, wrote President Osmani.
Kosovo Security Force and Kosovo Police Parade on the occasion of the 17th Anniversary of Independence
Dear citizens of the Republic of Kosovo, happy 17th anniversary of Independence to everyone! Honorable Prime Minister, Honorable former Presidents, Honorable government cabinet, Honorable officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers of the Security Force, Honorable members of the Kosovo Police, Honorable families of the KLA martyrs, Honorable ambassadors from friendly countries, Dear guests, On this 17th anniversary of our state, we are here because we stood and resisted. We are here today because we fought, because we sacrificed, because we never bowed to violence, injustice and atrocities. We are here today because we managed to rise again, build and strengthen our state! Thanks to the army and police who are parading in front of the citizens of Kosovo today, we managed to protect every inch of our state. On this great day in our history, on this 17th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic, we proudly stand in front our beloved flag, under the free sky of our homeland, to honor the glorious journey of our nation towards freedom, sovereignty and full statehood. At the foundations of our Republic lies a long journey. A journey that began with the vision of the architect of our Independence, the Founding Father of the Republic, the historic President, Dr. Ibrahim Rugova. With wisdom and perseverance, he led the peaceful resistance of our people, making our cause known to the world and building powerful alliances, which still stand by us today. Today, with the greatest reverence, we remember and bow before the sublime sacrifice of the Kosovo Liberation Army, which under the leadership of the Legendary Commander, Adem Jashari and thousands of freedom fighters sealed our fate with its blood. We bow with deep respect to the Jashari family and all the martyrs of the nation, all the martyrs of the Kosovo Liberation Army and the martyrs, who made this day possible with their extraordinary sacrifice. Our history would not be the same without the support of our allies. Our eternal gratitude goes to the United States of America, to NATO, to European countries and to democracies around the world, as well as to all international friends who stood with us in the most difficult moments and helped us make freedom and independence possible, supporting us when the enemies wanted to wipe us off the face of the earth. We will never forget their help, because Kosovo has friends and Kosovo’s friends are friends of freedom. We are the Republic of Kosovo. We are the voice of resistance and courage. We are the force that has resisted oppression and injustice and has never been broken. We are the people that fought for freedom and sacrificed for the future. We are the spirit that survived and rebuilt from the ashes. We are the vision that reformed and led change. We are the state and the Republic that never stops and moves forward with determination and pride. Before us today will appear the Kosovo Security Force, our army, the dignified heir to the sacrifices of entire generations, the worthy successor of the Kosovo Liberation Army. With professionalism, dedication and courage, the KSF has shown that it is the pride of the state and always ready to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Kosovo. Prepared in accordance with the latest developments in the global security architecture, our army will always be in defense of peace, stability and security of our citizens without distinction. Our freedom is sacred and its protection is a permanent duty. This duty is being carried out with the highest honor by the Kosovo Police, which defends the borders of Kosovo every day with courage and dedication, ready to sacrifice their lives to protect every inch of Kosovo’s land. Kosovo, however, is not just a piece of land. Kosovo is a spirit. Kosovo is a spirit and a permanent mission. It is not just a state with a history. Kosovo is a symbol of dignity and an unprecedented sacrifice for freedom. Whoever dares to question this reality, let them listen to the voice of the people of Kosovo today! Kosovo is and remains our eternal homeland. Kosovo moves forward with the strength of its people, with the vision of its youth, with the pride of its history. Kosovo is the homeland where we project our dreams, where we build the perspective of generations to come. With unwavering faith in our future, with optimism and pride, we will continue to work for an even stronger, even more prosperous and ever eternal Kosovo. Today, we are all together. The people of Kosovo celebrate as one and with pride. Despite the differences, despite the challenges, despite the obstacles that have been placed in our path, we are and will continue to remain united for our homeland – our beloved Republic. Happy 17th Anniversary of Independence! Glory to the heroes of the KLA! May God bless the Kosovo army and police! May God bless the Republic of Kosovo!
President of Italy Sergio Mattarella congratulates President Osmani on the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence
On the occasion of the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence, the President of the Republic of Italy, Sergio Mattarella, has sent a congratulatory message to the President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani Sadriu, expressing Italy’s dedication to the relations between the two countries and support for Kosovo’s stability and its European integration. In his message, President Mattarella emphasized that the two countries have continuously strengthened their friendship over the years, also due to Italy’s unwavering contribution to the stability and security of Kosovo. “The Republic of Italy remains a committed partner of Kosovo, supporting its progress towards Euro-Atlantic integration and the strengthening of democracy and stability in the region,” reads President Mattarella’s congratulatory message.
Summary of President Osmani’s visit to the Munich Security Conference (MSC 2025)
The President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, participated in the Munich Security Conference (MSC 2025), one of the most prestigious global forums on defense, security, foreign policy, and related issues. During her stay, she held meetings with world leaders, representatives of international organizations and important personalities of politics and the global community, intending to strengthen the strategic partnership and advance the interests of the Republic of Kosovo. President Osmani was also a speaker on panels and participated in various events organized within the MSC framework. During the Conference, President Osmani held meetings with: • President of Switzerland, Karin Keller-Sutter • President of Latvia, Edgars Rinkēvičs • President of Estonia, Alar Karis • President of the European Council, António Costa • Member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Željko Komšić • Member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Denis Bećirović • General Christopher Cavoli, Supreme Allied Commander Europe at NATO • Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset • New EU Representative for Dialogue, Peter Sørensen • Joint Delegation of the US Senators • Joint Delegation of the US House of Representatives • Members of the Bundestag, Annette Widmann-Mauz and Jürgen Hardt President Osmani also had the opportunity to speak to: • NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte • NATO Deputy Secretary General, Radmila Šekerinska • NATO Assistant Secretary General, Tom Goffus • President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola • Czech President, Petr Pavel • Dutch Prime Minister, Dick Schoof • Latvian Prime Minister, Evika Siliņa • Danish Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen • German Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock • Czech Foreign Minister, Jan Lipavský • Austrian Foreign Minister, Alexander Schallenberg • Costa Rican Foreign Minister, Arnoldo André Tinoco • Ministers of the countries of the region • CDU Chairman and candidate for the post of the Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz • Bavarian Minister-President, Markus Söder • Commander of the German Armed Forces, General Carsten Breuer • NATO Secretary General’s Special Representative for Women, Peace and Security, Irene Fellin • Former NATO Secretary General and new Director of the Munich Security Conference, Jens Stoltenberg President Osmani also met with the representatives of Schwarz Gruppe, which is one of the largest German companies, headed by Gerd Czarnowski. At this meeting, new opportunities for German investments in Kosovo and the deepening of economic cooperation were discussed. President Osmani participated at: • The “Nevertheless, She Persisted: Facing the Global Gender Gap” panel, where she addressed the crucial role of women in political processes, in public life and in peace and security issues. • The meeting of Western Balkan leaders, organized by Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos and Wolfgang Ischinger, where she reiterated that the integration of the Western Balkans into the EU is not only in the interest of the region but also of the EU itself, contributing to a Europe as a whole, free and at peace. During her stay in Munich, President Osmani participated in: • The Dissertation Award Ceremony and the “John McCain” Dinner • The State Luncheon and Dinner dedicated to Ukraine, “New Deck of Cards? Euro-Atlantic Changes and Ukraine”, where she delivered a keynote speech. • The Women’s Breakfast which brings together women leaders from around the world to discuss the challenges and advancement of women’s role in decision-making. • The State Dinner and the “Ewald von Kleist” Prize Award Ceremony President Osmani’s visit to the Munich Security Conference was carried out in the wake of her continued engagements to promote Kosovo’s interests and strengthen international partnerships. Through meetings, discussions and active participation in key forums, Kosovo continues to consolidate its position as an important factor to peace, security and stability, both in the region and beyond.