Speech by President Vjosa Osmani Official Birthday Celebration of His Majesty King Charles III
Speech by President Vjosa Osmani Official Birthday Celebration of His Majesty King Charles III — Your Excellency, Ambassador Hargreaves, Distinguished ambassadors, Members of Parliament, Honored guests and everyone here present, Dear friends of Kosovo and the UK, Few friendships in Kosovo’s modern history are remembered with such clarity and respect as the one we share with the United Kingdom. And few moments offer a more fitting opportunity to honor that friendship than the birthday of His Majesty King Charles III. I am truly grateful to join you tonight, as we celebrate a day that embodies the values we hold dear: the continuity of tradition, the strength of service, and the vision to lead through change. On behalf of the people of the Republic of Kosovo, I extend our warmest congratulations to His Majesty, to the Royal Family, and to the people of the United Kingdom. May this special occasion serve as a joyful reminder not only of the strength of the Crown but also of the values that bind us across borders: dignity, service, and the courage of leadership that puts others first. Because when we speak of the United Kingdom, we speak of a friend who stood by The Republic of Kosovo when the stakes were high and the path uncertain. Because, when darkness loomed in our country, Britain helped us find the light. When the world was still debating, Britain decided. And when Kosovo’s voice was just a whisper, the United Kingdom helped make it heard. British leaders, diplomats, parliamentarians stood firm in the halls of power, speaking out when our people were being silenced. British journalists told the truth when our people were facing a genocidal war. And British soldiers walked into harm’s way, not to conquer but to protect. Names may often fade in history books, but the people of Kosovo will forever remember. We remember every voice that spoke for us when we had none. We remember every hand that helped lift us up when we were brought to our knees. And above all, we remember that freedom has the highest of costs, and that friends who help defend it are never forgotten. That is not something we take for granted. It is something we carry with us, with gratitude and with purpose. It is precisely that shared purpose that guides our two countries forward: a purpose to build peace, to protect democracy, and to invest in partnerships that uplift our peoples. Today, Kosovo is proud to call the United Kingdom one of its most steadfast partners. This partnership is strong in defense, in the economy, in education, and in global cooperation. I am especially pleased that following my meetings with Prime Minister Starmer and Foreign Secretary Lammy over the past year, we have reaffirmed our shared commitment to take our partnership to the next level. We are ready to deepen our cooperation in defense and expand economic ties that create real and strategic opportunities for both our countries and citizens. In an age of rising global uncertainty, our defense cooperation has never mattered more. Our soldiers train side by side. Our institutions grow stronger with your support. And together, we stand for peace and security, not only in our region but also far beyond. Ladies and gentlemen, When we look to His Majesty King Charles III, we see not only a sovereign but a statesman who has dedicated his life to a quiet yet powerful form of leadership. A champion of the planet well before it was popular. A believer in unity when the world too often drifts apart. A reminder that service is not weakness. It is the biggest of strengths. These are not just royal virtues. They are most importantly human virtues. Which is why, as the ambassador mentioned, every time I had the honor to speak to His Majesty, he talked about the missing persons in Kosovo. And they are values Kosovo believes in deeply. Because in Kosovo, we know something about perseverance. We know what it means to stand firm when the world says “wait.” And we know that freedom, like peace, is never given. It is built, one act of courage, one moment of solidarity, one ally at a time. So tonight, we raise a glass to His Majesty the King. To the power of alliances. And to the unshakable belief that when freedom-loving countries stand together, there is no summit we cannot reach. God bless His Majesty King Charles III. God bless the Republic of Kosovo and the United Kingdom. Thank you. Faleminderit. Cheers.
President Osmani received Professor Hisashi Owada, former President of the International Court of Justice
The President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, received today the distinguished professor of international law and former President of the International Court of Justice, Mr. Hisashi Owada. Following an exceptionally amicable meeting during her visit to Japan, President Osmani considered it a special honor to receive Professor Owada in her office, emphasizing that he represents an extraordinary figure in the field of international justice and a tireless promoter of global peace. At the meeting, President Osmani expressed the deep gratitude of the institutions and citizens of the Republic of Kosovo for the historic role of Professor Owada, who as President of the ICJ has led this institution during one of the most important moments for the state of Kosovo – the issuance of the advisory opinion dated July 22, 2010, through which the Court confirmed that Kosovo’s declaration of independence did not violate international law. Madam President praised Professor Owada’s extraordinary contribution not only to Kosovo, but also to the development and advancement of international law and efforts for global peace. On this occasion, President Osmani congratulated Professor Owada on the title “Doctor Honoris Causa” awarded by the University of Pristina, emphasizing that the institutions and citizens of the Republic of Kosovo will remain eternally grateful for his support and vision.
President Osmani: On the International Day for the Prevention of Sexual Violence in Conflict, we stand with the survivors, who became a symbol of strength in the face of the inhumane crimes of Milosevic’s genocidal regime
The President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, commemorated today the International Day for the Prevention of Sexual Violence in Conflict. Madam President’s full post: On the International Day for the Prevention of Sexual Violence in Conflict, we stand with the survivors, who became a symbol of strength in the face of the inhumane crimes of Milosevic’s genocidal regime. In Kosovo, their courage paves the way for justice and a world where sexual violence is no longer used as a weapon of war. Their voices transcend our borders and turn pain into strength and inspiration for global change. We walk alongside them, with pride and dedication.
President Osmani commemorates Nekibe Kelmendi on the 14th anniversary of her passing
Today we honor Mrs. Nekibe Kelmendi, a tireless human rights lawyer, courageous political activist, close associate of the historic President Dr. Ibrahim Rugova, and a clear voice for justice in the darkest times of our country. She remained stoic despite the personal suffering caused by the cruel murder of her husband and sons by the Serbian genocidal regime, and never gave up her dedication to freedom, dignity, and justice. Mrs. Nekibe Kelmendi has made an extraordinary contribution to state-building, to the drafting of the first Constitution of our independent Republic, as well as to many other state-building processes. She continues to remain one of the brightest figures of our recent history. Her memory will always live on as an inspiration to all those who believe in peace, justice, and the values upon which our country is built. Glory to her life and work!
President Osmani: The legacy of the Founding Father of the Republic, the historic President Dr. Ibrahim Rugova, belongs not only to Kosovo, but to all those who believe in the power of justice and the ideal of freedom
The President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, during her official visit to Hungary, together with the Mayor of Budapest, inaugurated today a section of the “Ervin Szabó” library named after the historic President, Dr. Ibrahim Rugova. President Osmani wrote: The legacy of the Founding Father of the Republic, the historic President Dr. Ibrahim Rugova, belongs not only to Kosovo, but to all those who believe in the power of justice and the ideal of freedom. That is why today in Budapest, together with friends of President Rugova and new friends of Kosovo, we inaugurated a section of the “Ervin Szabó” named after the historic President, as a lasting tribute of the vision of the architect of our independence, who with unwavering dedication led the people of Kosovo on the path to freedom and independence.
President Osmani: Alliance with the US, the EU and partnership with NATO are in the DNA of our statehood
During her official visit to Hungary, the President of the Republic Vjosa Osmani, addressed students and professors of Eötvös Loránd University, to speak to them about the strategic priorities of the foreign policy of the Republic of Kosovo, including relations between Kosovo and Hungary. In her speech, President Osmani emphasized Kosovo’s unwavering commitment to Euro-Atlantic integration. She emphasized that Kosovo is determined to become a full member of the family of Euro-Atlantic states and that the alliance with the US, the European Union and the partnership with NATO allies constitute pillars of regional stability and directly contribute to the security of the Euro-Atlantic area. At one of the most prestigious universities in Central Europe, President Osmani focused on the role of education as a bridge between nations and as a foundation for long-term cooperation. She expressed gratitude for the support that students from Kosovo have received over the years from Eötvös Loránd University and Hungarian institutions. Highlighting the historical dimension of Albanian-Hungarian relations, Madam President brought to attention the contribution of two emblematic figures – Gjergj Kastrioti Skenderbeg and János Hunyadi: “In the 15th century, Albanians and Hungarians stood side by side in the defense of European civilization. It was an alliance of spiritual values, built on shared values such as freedom, identity and dignity. Today, in a changing Europe, this inspiring legacy guides us to build partnerships that reflect the shared vision for a peaceful and united future.” Madam President also emphasized that relations between Kosovo and Hungary have great potential to expand in areas such as renewable energy, tourism, technology and education, underlining that sustainable progress is built on investing in youth and creating bridges of intercultural understanding.
President Osmani met with the Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament, Mr. László Kövér
The President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, during her official visit to Hungary, met with the Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament, Mr. László Kövér. President Osmani wrote: At the meeting in Budapest with the Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament, Mr. László Kövér, we discussed the importance of interstate cooperation to the benefit of the citizens of both countries. Kosovo is committed to open new chapters of cooperation with Hungary and, while at the same time preserve historical relations and strengthen the bonds between our peoples. 🇽🇰🇭🇺
President Osmani received with military honors in Hungary by President Sulyok
The President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, was received today in Budapest with military honors by the President of Hungary, Tamás Sulyok. President Osmani wrote: Thank you for the reception with military honors in Budapest, President Sulyok! 🇽🇰🇭🇺 An important visit for the advancement of relations between Kosovo and Hungary, for the benefit of our citizens and in the spirit of mutual cooperation.
President Osmani on an official visit to Hungary at the invitation of President Sulyok
The President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, has departed on an official visit to Hungary, at the invitation of the Hungarian President, Tamás Sulyok. The visit will begin with an official ceremony with military honours, organized at Kossuth Lajos Square in Budapest, following which the two presidents will hold a tête-à-tête meeting, continued with a meeting between the respective delegations of the two countries. As part of the visit, President Sulyok will host an official lunch for President Osmani and her delegation at the Sándor Presidential Palace. President Osmani, during her visit to Hungary, will also be received by László Kövér, Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament. As part of the agenda, President Osmani will also address students and professors of Eötvös Loránd University with a lecture and discussion on the topic “Kosovo and its European Future: Regional Cooperation, Global Engagement and the Way Forward”, where she will outline the strategic priorities of the foreign policy of the Republic of Kosovo, including Euro-Atlantic integration. As part of this visit, President Osmani will also hold meetings with chambers of commerce in Hungary.
Through the exchange of letters with the EU, the technical mandate of the EULEX mission in Kosovo is extended
Today, through an exchange of letters with the EU, the technical mandate of the EULEX mission was extended. In her letter, President Osmani emphasized that this technical mandate, without executive powers, remains focused on aspects of monitoring, mentoring and advising. In her letter to the EU High Representative, Ms. Kaja Kallas, President Osmani requested among others that EULEX forward to the authorities of the Republic of Kosovo all documents in its possession, since the time it had an executive mandate, and also requested that all EULEX activities are conducted in accordance with the European Convention on Human Rights and the judicial practice of the European Court of Human Rights.