Kosovo’s Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti praised the decisive role of the United States in building Kosovo’s state institutions and strengthening its democratic foundations, saying that the country owes much to its American allies.
Speaking at an event organized by the University of Pristina’s Summer University in cooperation with the Government of Kosovo, marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, Kurti emphasized Washington’s contribution to key stages of Kosovo’s development.
“From the assistance of American legal experts during the drafting of our Constitution, to American expertise and financial support in strengthening our capacities for public policy-making and implementation, and to the decisive contribution in helping us maintain an active and vibrant civil society, today’s Kosovo owes much to our American friends,” Kurti said.
He stressed that U.S. support has played a crucial role during important moments for Kosovo’s democracy and institution-building, describing the partnership between the two countries as one based on shared democratic values.
Kurti also highlighted the importance of democratic debate and institutional accountability in the United States, referring to American political and judicial institutions as examples of deliberation and public responsibility.
“The United States is characterized by its continued commitment to a strong democratic debate. The critical spirit that shaped the country’s founding debates continues today,” Kurti said.
The Rector of the University of Pristina, Hajrullah Hajrullahu, said universities have a broader mission than simply educating professionals, as they also help create responsible citizens and strengthen democracy through knowledge and critical thinking.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo, Wylita Bell, said the history of Kosovo and the United States share similarities in their struggles for freedom, investment in youth, and belief in a better future.
She emphasized the importance of educational exchange programs between the two countries, including the International Summer School and the Fulbright program, as tools for strengthening cooperation and mutual understanding.
Bell described Kosovo as a welcoming and friendly country, encouraging participants from the United States and Kosovo to continue building relationships beyond the program.
