Ambassador, Dr. Blerim Reka speech at the Ceremony on 18th anniversary of Kosova’ s Independence (NY State Senate, Albany, 5 February 2026)
Honorable Jessica Scarcella- Spanton, NY State Senator
Honorable Charles D. Fall, NY State Assembly Member
Të dashur bashkatdhetarë….
Thank you all for your warm hospitality.
It is a great honour for me to be in Albany again, for such a joyous occasion: together, celebrating the historical event of the 18th anniversary of Kosova’s independence.
As we reflect on 18 years since Kosova became the youngest European state, after the Parliament declared it as an independent and sovereign state, today, we can proudly state that the Republic of Kosova is a successful democratic nation-building story.
The liberation war against Serbia leads by UÇK and supported by USA and NATO, brought an end to a century of Serbia’s colonial ruling, apartheid and genocide against the Albanians of Kosova.
We are forever grateful to the USA and our Euro-Atlantic allies for their continuous support towards our statehood, while never forgetting that friends in need are friends indeed.
Today, The Republic of Kosova is the most democratic country in the Balkans, and the most pro- American nation in Europe, recognized by 121 member states of United Nations.
Kosova is certain in its path toward UN membership despite Russia’s veto, which goes against the clear opinion of the International Court of Justice (2010) that “the declaration of independence of Kosova did NOT violate international law”.
We stand strongly in our belief that Kosova belongs in the great UN family, and the path towards membership will be guided by adhering to the human rights and freedoms’ principles. Kosova continues to be one of the only countries in the region, applying advanced human rights models: with only 4 % of Serb minority, the Serb language is an official language, and 10 reserved seats in the parliament.
Hoping that our path will be long and independence anniversaries countless. And in this path, we know we are not alone.
While expressing my sincere gratitude to the Senate and the Assembly of the State of New York, here’s to wish many more years of independence for Kosova!
God Bless the United States of America,
God Bless Kosova!