Mark Gjonaj/
It is a great honor and privilege to stand before you today to celebrate the 17th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Kosova. This is a moment of deep pride for all of us, especially for those of us who carry the memory of struggle, sacrifice, and victory in our hearts. We gather here today not only to mark a historic milestone but to honor the unbreakable spirit of our people, our past, and the brilliant future that Kosova is shaping as a proud, sovereign nation.
Seventeen years ago, Kosova declared its independence, marking the culmination of decades of hardship, bloodshed, and relentless pursuit of freedom. It was a hard-won victory that emerged from the dark years of the Kosova War, a defining moment in the history of the Albanian people. It was a moment when the world watched as Serbia sought to eradicate the Albanian population through a brutal campaign of ethnic cleansing. Tens of thousands were displaced from their homes, and countless others faced the horrors of mass atrocities.
The Albanian people stood against this violence, not with hatred but with an unwavering commitment to freedom, dignity, and their right to self-determination. We must also acknowledge the painful truth that there has been no full justice for the victims of the war. The war crimes committed by Serbian forces—acts of ethnic cleansing, mass executions, rape, and the displacement of over a million people—have largely gone unpunished. Too many families continue to grieve without the closure they deserve, and too many perpetrators have not been held accountable for their atrocities.
The search for justice is far from complete.
We stand united in solemn remembrance of the victims—the 13,950 killed, the 20,000 raped, and the 1,600 who remain missing to this day. Let us not forget the innocent lives taken too soon, the children who never got to grow up, the fathers who never came home, and the mothers who still mourn their lost families. Let us not forget the names of those who are missing, whose families are still left without answers, whose graves remain unmarked, whose memories are still hidden beneath the rubble of a war that should never have happened.
We owe it to the victims, to the families, and to future generations to ensure that those responsible for the horrors of the Kosova War face the full weight of justice. Justice is not just a moral obligation; it is a necessary step for true reconciliation and healing. Today, Kosova is an independent, democratic republic—a beacon of hope, not just for Albanians, but for all those who yearn for freedom, peace, and justice.
In just 17 years, Kosova has transformed itself from a war-torn region to a vibrant democracy, building its institutions, fostering economic growth, and forging alliances across the world. Kosova’s independence is a testament to the resilience of its people, a beacon that shines bright in Europe. And as we stand here today, we must remember those who contributed to this struggle, who documented the Albanian fight for freedom, and who kept the flame of our independence alive. This year, we honor the Albanian media who have tirelessly worked to document Kosova’s fight for independence and the journey of the Albanian community here in New York.
They have been the eyes and the voices of our people, sharing our stories with the world, raising awareness of the atrocities we faced, and championing the cause of freedom in the face of adversity. Their dedication and perseverance have ensured that Kosova’s story is known, that its sacrifices are remembered, and that its future is secured. To the honorees, we extend our deepest gratitude. You have been the bridges connecting our people with the world. You have brought Kosova’s history and progress to the forefront, and through your work, you have helped ensure that the sacrifices of our people are never forgotten.
Your courage, your dedication, and your love for Kosova and Albania are felt across the globe. Today, we salute you, as we honor the past and look forward to the future. On this, the 17th anniversary of Kosova’s independence, let us remember the past with gratitude, honor the present with pride, and look to the future with hope. Kosova’s journey is far from over.
There are still challenges ahead, including the pursuit of justice for the victims of the war, but with the strength of our people, the support of our friends like the United States, and the determination to preserve our hard-won freedom, I have no doubt that Kosova will continue to thrive. Together, we have made Kosova free. Together, we will continue to build a future that reflects the values we hold dear—freedom, democracy, and justice for all.
Rroftë Amerika
Rroftë Shqipëria
Rroftë Kosova
Zoti bekoftë shqiptarët kudo ku janë në botë!