The President of Albania, Bajram Begaj, during a state reception marking the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s independence, stated that Albania will always stand by Kosovo, supporting it in “every initiative, in international organizations, the path to the EU, and new recognitions.”
President Begaj called on the European Union to lift the sanctions imposed on Kosovo and urged the EU member states that have not recognized the Republic of Kosovo to do so.
“Albania and Kosovo are loyal allies of the United States and the European Union. Allies of the Euro-Atlantic Alliance… We believe that a united Europe is our strategic and vital destination… The non-recognition of Kosovo by some member states is an act that contradicts this commitment. We wish for these countries to reconsider their decisions and positions, and also for the EU to lift the sanctions unjustly imposed on the state of Kosovo,” Begaj said during the ceremony.
Begaj honored all those who contributed greatly to Kosovo’s independence, starting with President Ibrahim Rugova, Commander Adem Jashari, and others.
“Today and forever, we honor the architect of the independence of the Republic of Kosovo, Dr. Ibrahim Rugova, the historic leader and president of Kosovo, and Adem Demaçi. We honor the legendary commander Adem Jashari and the KLA, we honor the blood of martyrs, the tears and pains of our mothers,” Begaj said.
