Dear children, welcome to the Presidency of the Republic of Kosovo and congratulations to all on June 1st from the bottom of my heart!
Honourable parents,
Honourable educators,
Honourable representatives of institutions,
Ambassadors,
Dear citizens,
June 1st, International Children’s Day reminds us all, as we are seeing today from the presence of children from all communities living in Kosovo, that they are not only our future, but they are also our present.
They are the light of every family, the joy of every society and the strong reason to build an even safer, brighter future in our country.
On this special day, with children from all regions of Kosovo having gathered here, I want to repeat a message that I emphasize every time I talk about our children: caring for children is not only a parental or institutional duty, but is the shared responsibility of our entire society.
All our children, regardless of ethnicity, gender or other affiliation, deserve a happy childhood, quality education, a safe environment and above all a life with dignity.
Our future as a society is measured precisely by the way we treat our children. This means more investment in education, more care for their health, more protection from violence, more love and opportunities for each of them, so that they can dream and fulfill their dreams.
Therefore, we must all increase our commitment to ensure that the voice of children is heard even more in every decision, in every policy and that their rights are protected in our daily engagement, so that our country is a big home, where every child feels safe and included.
We must say not only today but every day, that protecting children is not only a moral and legal obligation, but is the foundation of lasting peace and sustainable development.
Therefore, let us give each child what they deserve: love, attention, protection and opportunities. Today, as I mentioned, we have children from all communities, but also our police and military personnel, who are present today represent all communities living in our Republic and they make sure every day that you feel protected and equal.
And while we are talking about children, we never forget those who gave everything and contributed a lot so that today our children live freely. One of the people who has given the most to make the voice of the people of Kosovo heard, is Ambassador William Walker, to whom we also wish a happy birthday today!
Wishing you a very happy birthday, and many many more!
And I am convinced that the time that he spends today among you will give even more energy, even more life, to our esteemed ambassador.
Dear children, may you always smile, may you always be healthy and free to realize your dreams!
Happy June 1st to everyone!
Thank you!
