Heads of State: The Republic of Kosovo was achieved with great sacrifices

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Express newspaper

17/02/2026 7:27

The country's leaders have begun state activities to mark the 18th anniversary of Kosovo's Independence.

After raising the Flag of the Republic of Kosovo, they said that the independence of the Republic of Kosovo was achieved with great sacrifices.

The country's President, Vjosa Osmani, said that first of all, we gather to celebrate this anniversary of our new state, which is now entering its adulthood, and at the same time to commemorate all those who sacrificed everything so that we can enjoy the state today.

She emphasized that the sacrifice to get here has been centuries-old. "We express our deepest respect for the path, vision and contribution of our historic president, the Father of Independence and its architect, Dr. Ibrahim Rugova. For the sacrifice of the Jashari family, led by the legendary commander Adem Jashari. For thousands of martyrs and heroes of the Kosovo Liberation Army," she said.

The Speaker of the Assembly of Kosovo, Albulena Haxhiu, said that today we remember with honor and respect all those who gave their lives for the independence that we enjoy, that is, the martyrs of the nation and the martyrs.

"Also, today we honor the high-ranking figures who contributed, in different circumstances and periods, to the liberation, freedom and independence of the Republic of Kosovo. We honor independence by working with functional institutions that act with integrity and professionalism," she said.

Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said that Kosovo is growing. He emphasized that during the years of independence, the number of recognitions of statehood has increased, the country's economy has developed, the welfare of citizens has increased, and the power of the state has been strengthened.

According to him, eighteen years ago, the independence of the Republic of Kosovo was born, which was achieved thanks to many generations of activists, among countless generations of our people, who contributed and sacrificed so that we today are free and independent, with a democratic and sovereign state.

"Today we celebrate, but at the same time we also honor the peaceful resistance and armed uprisings, which culminated in the just war of the Kosovo Liberation Army," he said.