Kosovo Independence Day

On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Kosovo as you celebrate your sixteenth anniversary as a sovereign, independent state.

The United States values our enduring partnership, rooted in mutual understanding, shared values, and friendship between our people.  As you continue to make progress on strengthening democratic institutions and promoting the rule of law, we will continue to support a multiethnic Kosovo that advances a safer, more secure, and more prosperous region.  The United States encourages Kosovo to implement its commitments and press ahead through the EU-facilitated dialogue to achieve a comprehensive normalization agreement with Serbia, on the path to eventual mutual recognition.

The United States believes Kosovo’s future is in Europe and Euro-Atlantic institutions.  We support the aspirations set out in your declaration of independence and constitution to “contribute to the stability of the region and entire Europe by creating relations of good neighborliness and cooperation.”  We welcome Kosovo’s steadfast support of Ukraine against Russia’s brutal and unjust war and are grateful for Kosovo’s generous assistance to journalists and others who sought refuge in your country.  I look forward to deepening our partnership in strengthening democracy and creating the conditions for Kosovo and all its citizens to thrive in a more secure, stable, and prosperous world.

Congratulations again to our friend, partner, and ally on the anniversary of Kosovo Independence Day. May you have a peaceful and prosperous year ahead.