The President of the Republic of Kosovo, Justina Shiroka Pula, participated at the reception this evening hosted by the Embassy of Hungary to Kosovo, marking the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution.
In her remarks to those present, President Shiroka Pula stated that, on the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, we have gathered to commemorate the courage of the Hungarian citizens in their pursuit of freedom, dignity, and independence.
She noted that the aspirations that inspired this resistance remain part of European heritage, reminding us of the importance of defending freedom, human rights, and the right of every nation to determine its own future. “The people of the Republic of Kosovo understand very well the importance of freedom to a nation. Our history—from the resistance by Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg to the struggle of the Kosovo Liberation Army and the declaration of independence—testifies to the Albanians’ enduring quest for freedom, dignity, and the right to determine their own future,” stated President Shiroka Pula.
Therefore, she added, when we commemorate the Hungarian Revolution of 1956, we grasp the significance of this date for the Hungarian people, noting that the resistance of Hungarian citizens against oppression is a part of the European history of freedom.
“The historical ties between us Albanians and the Hungarians are also evidenced by the relationship between our national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, and your hero, János Hunyadi—and, later, his son, Matthias Corvinus. These relations developed during a pivotal period in European history,” said President Shiroka Pula.
According to her, their example reminds us that cooperation between peoples, when rooted in shared interests and common goals, can transcend borders and differences. “This historical legacy serves as an important point of reference in the contemporary relations between Kosovo and Hungary. The friendship between the two countries has also been demonstrated in our own time through diplomatic relations and cooperation in the fields of security, education, and the economy. Hungary recognized the independence of the Republic of Kosovo in March 2008 and currently contributes over 400 troops to the KFOR mission, which plays a vital role in maintaining a safe environment and stability in Kosovo. Cooperation in education—including the opportunities provided by the *Stipendium Hungaricum* scholarship program—offers young Kosovars avenues for acquiring knowledge, exchanging experiences, and forging new connections with Hungarian institutions and society. Furthermore, economic relations and political dialogue create opportunities to further deepen our partnership,” emphasized President Shiroka Pula.
She further noted that the anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution serves as an occasion to honor the courage of those who rose up for freedom and to reflect upon the values that unite our societies. “For Kosovo, the friendship with Hungary is part of a relationship that intertwines history with contemporary cooperation and aspirations for the future. We believe that the ties between the two countries can be further strengthened through mutual respect, open dialogue, and concrete cooperation. Both Kosovo and Hungary share an interest in Europe being a space of peace, security, democracy, and opportunity for all citizens,” the President stated.
In conclusion, President Shiroka Pula expressed—on behalf of the citizens of Kosovo—her respect for the history and resilience of the Hungarian people, as well as her conviction that the friendship between Kosovo and Hungary will continue to flourish for the benefit of our citizens and for a European future built upon peace, freedom, and cooperation.
