Mr. Ambassador,
Mr. Speaker,
Mr. Prime Minister,
Friends of Kosovo and friends of the United States,
Happy Fourth of July!
There are indeed very few countries in the world where love of your country is so deeply connected with love for America. In our country, that feeling is second to none. Whether you talk to a grandma in Dragash, a young man in Prizren, a farmer in Shala e Bajgores, or a woman police officer in Mitrovica, whether you talk to young people while they’re enjoying their nightlife in Prishtina, or while on a hiking in the amazing mountains around our country, …love of Kosova and love of America are one.
While the Fourth of July is indeed a proud day for all Americans, it is a day of vast gratefulness for the people of Kosovo. The unity that this day sparks is not confined only within the United States … it goes well beyond its borders.
Americans at home and abroad are united through a festive spirit celebrating the values and the ideals that this great nation is built on, while reaffirming their commitment to one another and to allies around the world to continue to preserve, promote, and further advance them.
Equally so, in every corner of Kosovo, we join Americans all around the world not just to celebrate this important day, but also to express our utmost appreciation for our longstanding partnership and for the contribution that the United States has made to our freedom, our independence, and our state-building process. But, equally so, for the support we continue to receive as we walk on our Euro-Atlantic path.
Dear friends,
While successes have historically shaped our alliances, the challenges were not absent either. Yet, we always persevered and thrived, because a partnership that is built on solid foundations and shaped by joint future aspirations, is a partnership that is bound to last forever.
When we met last year, we were hopeful that this would be eventually a year where we would reunite under the free skies of Europe. We were hopeful that our continent would finally be at peace. Unfortunately, that is not the case yet. Hence, even though today is a day of celebration, it is also a reminder of the fact that the values that unite us, are the values that must guide our actions in overcoming our mutual challenges. These are the values that we must continue to collectively defend and protect. Because the struggle for freedom and human rights is far from over and when the democratic values are critically under threat, the need for unity, partnership and alliances becomes even greater.
Dear Ambassador, U.S. diplomats, American friends,
The United States has long been a beacon of inspiration for the Republic of Kosovo. We will always continue to look up to the United States. I always say that we are in fact an extension of American values. So, when we say, Kosovo is your home too, I truly hope that you feel that strongly with every passing day. To us, the United States is not simply an ally – but, rather – a guide – a guide and a leader in our global efforts to champion freedom, democracy, and justice for all.
The support that the US has historically extended to us has not only been one of crucial importance, but it has been one of existential dimensions. I am confident that numerous chapters of cooperation remain to be unveiled between our two countries, but it is the backbone of this alliance that makes us rest assured that the path forward is the right one.
The U.S. stands as a synonym to our freedom and liberty. Because of your determination, our liberation struggle culminated with a right to choose our very own path. You graciously offered us aid in reconstructing our homes, homes ravaged and desecrated by the fires of war. You provided unwavering support in establishing the foundations of our institutions, spanning from our police force to our constitutional court, and in formulating the laws that sustain the tranquility of our nation. The foundations of our young Republic stand as a testament to your unconditional dedication to upholding peace of our sovereign state.
The principles that embody the U.S. permeate every aspect of our Declaration of Independence and formed the cornerstone of our arguments before the International Court of Justice. It was the U.S. that consistently advocated for us in various forums and meetings, whether it be to solidify our statehood, secure recognitions, or assert our undeniable right to sovereignty. You have stood alongside us in constructing our military, ensuring its growth adheres to the highest NATO standards and its readiness to contribute to global peace and stability, a role it already fulfills. Nothing showcases that better than the symbolism of the very first uniforms that were worn by our members of the army, right after the KSF was created: they were United States uniforms, uniforms that were previously worn by US soldiers. An army that came to our rescue and turned into a savior. A savior of our lives and defender of the values of freedom and democracy.
So dear friends let us remember all this, and so much more, whenever someone might feel that there are challenges to this partnership. Let us remember that it is the duty of us all to make sure that we defend and nourish this alliance, as it is this alliance that keeps the foundations of our statehood, sovereignty and territorial integrity so strong. Let us remember that our greatest power lies precisely in the partnerships that are built in shared values but also in our shared vision for the future. This is no time for doubts or questions, let alone disagreements. Instead, this is time for appreciation, gratefulness and dedication to being there for one another and supporting one another.
So, on this U.S. independence celebration, let us all recommit ourselves to the ideals and values that the heart of every American and every Kosovar beats to. Today, as we honor the sacrifices of those who came before us, let us never lose sight of the fact that it is only through joint actions and efforts that we can shape a better future for both of our countries and our peoples.
On behalf of the people of the Republic of Kosovo, once again, thank you and a very Happy Fourth of July. Long-live the U.S.-Kosovo alliance.
Thank you! Faleminderit!
