Honourable guests,
Honourable Prime Minister,
Honourable President of the Olympic Committee,
Minister, Deputy Minister,
Honourable Ambassadors,
Honourable Champions, Coaches, Athletes and Representatives of Federations,
As we stand on the eve of the “Paris 2024” Olympic Games, we have all come together, as is the sentiment of our people in relation to our champions, to hand over the flag of the Republic of Kosovo to our competitors, as a blessing for success in Paris.
The Olympic Games transcend the boundaries of sport. They embody the principles of unity, peace and mutual respect. In a world like today’s, which is often divided by differences, the Olympic Games highlight our commonalities, namely our ability to unite through friendly competition and mutual respect.
For Kosovo, our participation in the Olympic Games represents the culmination of many years of hard work, dedication and unparalleled determination, sometimes even in extraordinary circumstances, of our athletes and their coaches. It is a testament to the resilience of our people and the ability to rise above challenges and excel on the world stage.
The Olympic Games have always been a celebration for Kosovo, ever since our gold medallist Majlinda Kelmendi gave us a sense of pride that can hardly be described in words, and I am convinced that Paris will be the same, where we will be represented by Distria, Nora, Loriana, Laura, Akili, Donjeta, Gresa, Hana and Adelli.
In the heart of France, namely in Paris, athletes from all over the world will gather to compete at a high level, representing their countries with pride and showcasing their talent to the world.
Of course, our competitors continue to be the embodiment of our hopes and dreams.
Your dedication, discipline and passion inspire us all.
Therefore, as you leave for Paris in the coming days, you carry with you the support and admiration of every citizen of the Republic of Kosovo.
And as you step onto the global stage, remember that at no time will you be alone. As I said last time, the heart of every citizen will beat with yours. An entire country stands with you, cheering you on with pride and with full confidence in your ability and work.
And today, as I hand you the flag of the Republic of Kosovo, I am filled with pride and hope! And, very happy that this year, also for the first time, Kosovo will also be represented at the Paralympic Games. We will witness an event that, among other things, highlights the extraordinary progress we have made as a country in promoting the inclusion of our athletes.
The competitors who represent us at the 2024 Olympic Games honour their country.
Their courage, determination and passion remind us of the limitless potential that exists within each of us.
Therefore, I wish you success in the competitions, knowing that you have already left an indelible mark on sport, on the state and on the history of our country!
Your success in the Olympic Games will not only be a personal achievement, but a victory for all of Kosovo. It will show the whole world the strength, resilience and talent that our extraordinary youth possess.
Your efforts will also pave the way for future generations of athletes, inspiring them to dream big and pursue their goals with determination.
Remember, the flag of Kosovo symbolizes the spirit, strength and unity of our state built on the blood of martyrs.
Therefore, compete with honour, give your best and remember that every step you take on the global stage is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of an entire people.
May Kosovo’s participation in the Paris Olympic Games be a testament to this enduring spirit of our state and a hope for an even brighter future!
Dear athletes, compete with heart and honour and continue to make us proud!
Good luck, and return from Paris victorious!
Thank you!
