Acting President of the Republic of Kosovo, Albulena Haxhiu, attended the graduation ceremony of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) Class of 2026 cadets, where she delivered an address to the graduates and guests.
Addressing the newly commissioned cadets, Haxhiu said the occasion marks a significant milestone in both their professional and personal lives.
“Today belongs first and foremost to you, the Class of 2026 cadets. It also belongs to your families, the Academy that has shaped you, and the Kosovo Security Force, which today welcomes a new generation of officers into its ranks,” she said.
She emphasized that graduation marks the completion of an important chapter in their training and the beginning of their responsibility as officers of the Republic.
“With your graduation, an important phase of your development comes to an end, and your responsibility to serve as officers of the Republic begins,” Haxhiu stated.
Reflecting on the cadets’ four years of education and training, she praised their discipline and academic and military preparation.
“Over these years, you have completed an integrated academic and military program. The education and training you have received have equipped you with knowledge, discipline, and a clear understanding of the responsibilities carried by an officer,” she said.
Haxhiu also stressed the importance of character in military service, noting that rank has value only when accompanied by integrity.
“The rank placed upon your shoulders will carry weight only if it is matched by your character,” she said, adding, “People may respect rank, but they follow character.”
In her speech, she also addressed the evolving global security environment, highlighting the emergence of new threats.
“You are graduating at a time when international security is facing new challenges. Conflicts, hybrid threats, cyberattacks, and disinformation remind us that peace is preserved through preparedness and vigilance,” Haxhiu said.
She underlined that the KSF’s core mission is to protect the state and its citizens.
“Your responsibility is far greater, beginning with the protection of our country’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo, and the security of its citizens,” she noted.
Speaking about Kosovo’s history, Haxhiu also referred to the sacrifices made for the country’s freedom.
“The Republic was not a gift. It was built upon a centuries-long struggle for freedom. The heroism of the Legendary Commander Adem Jashari and the sacrifice of the Jashari family remain enduring symbols of our people’s freedom and determination,” she said.
She reaffirmed Kosovo’s commitment to Euro-Atlantic integration and its aspiration to join NATO.
“Our strategic objective remains unchanged. The Republic of Kosovo belongs to the Euro-Atlantic family, and NATO membership remains both a national objective and a strategic interest,” Haxhiu stressed.
Concluding her remarks, she called on the cadets to serve with responsibility and integrity.
“From today onward, every decision you make will carry responsibility. Therefore, always serve with honor, lead with wisdom, and remain faithful to the oath you will take today,” she concluded.
