President Osmani stated on this occasion:
In the history of our state, a name that embodies the courage, wisdom and our dream for an independent state shines bright – the name of Dr. Ibrahim Rugova, our founding father and historic president who today marks his 80th birthday.
With endless faith in the peace, dignity, freedom and independence of our people, President Rugova laid the foundations of an independent Kosovo, shaping a legacy rooted in the wisdom, patience, resilience and indomitable will of a nation. With wisdom, together with a vision of a statesman and with the spirit of a patriot, President Rugova united us at our most difficult moments, inspiring generations to walk the path of freedom, independence and democracy. A path we will never walk away from!