Tony Blair in front of MPs: I never regret backing Kosovo independence

Blair, who played a leading role during NATO's 1999 bombing campaign that halted the advances of Serbian occupational forces and helped Kosovo gain independence, said he never regrets the decision they made 25 years ago.

It's an honor for me to be here today and I can't thank you enough for the warm welcome.25 years ago the agreement was reached to free the territory of Kosovo, and Kosovo was finally free and people were free to live, hope and believe again in a free future... We helped and never repent”, Blair said.

Blair added that today we remember those who gave their lives for freedom, remember their courage and sacrifice, and express deep appreciation for them and their families.

As prime minister at the time, I have many memories of negotiations with world leaders and of the complexity of the war decision at the time”, Blair said.

Blair called on countries that have yet to recognise Kosovo's independence to do so. He stressed that youth is Kosovo's future.

“E knows that Kosovo still faces challenges, but the youth you have and that it is very clever is the future of Kosovo”, Blair said.