A solemn session has begun in the Assembly of Kosovo to mark the 18th anniversary of Kosovo’s independence.
The event is attended by President Vjosa Osmani, Albanian President Bajram Begaj, and Rifat Jashari, representing the Jashari family.
Also present are representatives of state institutions, including the government cabinet led by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, accredited ambassadors in Kosovo, a delegation from the United Kingdom, representatives of the Arbëreshë diaspora, and religious leaders.
The session began with the playing of the Kosovo national anthem.
President Vjosa Osmani, speaking from the podium bearing the initials of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA), said that 18 years ago Kosovo rose from suffering to dignity and from resistance to statehood, demonstrating that freedom won through sacrifice is eternal.
“18 years ago, Kosovo was declared a free, independent, and sovereign state, ending a long and painful journey while opening a new chapter in our national history. Kosovo’s independence was achieved through effort, blood, sacrifice, and centuries of patience. It was built by those who were persecuted, imprisoned, expelled, and fought, but never submitted. Today, with the deepest respect, we bow before the memory of all those men and women who fell so that Kosovo could become a Republic,” Osmani stated at the start of her speech during the solemn session honoring the 18th anniversary of statehood.
