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!
