Kosovo independence 11th anniversary celebrated in Strasbourg as well

On the 11th anniversary of Kosovo's Independence have been attended by ambassadors of member states in KiE, Eurodeputs, prominent military and political personalities, as well as the Kosovo community living in Strasbourg and the district.

At the invitation of Ambassador Mimoza Ahmetaj, MP Ismet Beqiri, deputy member of the Kosovo Assembly delegation near the APKiE, as well as Astrit Zemaj, Zv. Director General at MPJ.

Ambassador Ahmetaj addressed the audience in one word, where she said that on this anniversary, we remember not only the day our country was born but at the same time honors all those who did this possible day, generations that built the vision of an independent country.

Ahmetaj added that throughout this time, Kosovo has achieved many successes and has marked its short history on the international stage.

Kosovo has managed to sign its first agreement with the EU. In this context, I would like to thank the city of Strasbourg and its authorities as a host of many important events involving Kosovo, including the signing of the SAA. During the following year, the KSF became the Armed Military Force, and that made us proud of our achievements and successes but also aware of our duties and challenges before”, she said.

Ambassador Ahmetaj next underlined that this year marks the 7th anniversary of Kosovo's direct communication with the Council of Europe, as well as used the opportunity to thank Secretary-General Jagland for his direct contribution and engagement, as well as Kosovo institutions for readiness to take responsibility in the state-building process.

For all these years we have had a steady increase in co-operation and common achievements, through many programmes for rule of law and human rights, minority issues, the fight against corruption, the fight against violence of women, membership in the Venice Commission and CEB, the participation of the Kosovo Assembly delegation in the APKiE. And, recently, our Constitutional Court has given the Parliament the green light to include the Istanbul Convention on our Constitution”, she said.

Stopping at state priorities on the international level, Ambassador Ahmetaj said that in addition to deepening existing ties, they are seeking full membership and equal partnership with the KiE.

According to her, this continues to remain the top priority in the foreign policy agenda, together with UN, EU and NATO membership.

“This year will mark not only the 20th anniversary of Kosovo's liberation and the 70th anniversary of the Declaration of Human Rights, but could also bring many possibilities to the entire Balkan region. It is time for new ideas, initiatives and decisions that need to be made, and is the main moment for peace treaty, reconciliation and prosperity between nations and countries in the Western Balkans region, it has said.

At the end of her speech, Ambassador Ahmetaj invited those in attendance to attend the artistic programme, with the performance of pianist Elezi and soprano Adelina Paloja.

A cocktail of traditional dishes prepared by Kosovo Consulate staff and drinks from Kosovo was also laid for guest guests. /Kosovo pres/