Pristina, 27 October, 2025
The acting Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, attended the reception organized on the occasion of the Austrian National Day.
The Prime Minister congratulated the state and people of Austria on the occasion of this holiday.
“Yesterday, Austria marked this historic moment for the 60th time since it became an official national holiday – six decades of remembrance, reflection and pride on a path defined by democracy, responsibility and freedom.” said the Prime Minister.
He added that “For us in Kosovo, this day carries a special resonance. Austria’s journey – from occupation to independence, from division to democracy – reflects in many ways our path towards freedom and self-determination. It reminds us that sovereignty is not only about borders, but also about values: justice, solidarity and human dignity.”
The Prime Minister said that on this occasion we also celebrate the friendship and partnership between our two states, built on shared values and mutual trust.
“Austria has stood by Kosovo at every critical stage of our statehood. It was among the first countries to recognize our independence; it has been a steadfast supporter of our European path; and it continues to be one of our most important partners in development, education and investment. For this, I express our deep gratitude,” said Prime Minister Kurti.
Complete speech of Prime Minister Kurti:
Dear Mrs. Clarissa Castek, Chargé d’Affaires of the Republic of Austria to the Republic of Kosova,
Dear Ambassadors and Representatives of Diplomatic Missions in Kosova,
Dear colleagues from the Government and Parliament and from other institutions of our state,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is a true pleasure to be with you this evening — to celebrate Austria’s National Day, a day that holds deep meaning for the Austrian people, and for all of us who value freedom and democracy. On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Kosova, I extend our warmest congratulations to Austria and its citizens.
The 26th of October marks a defining chapter in Austria’s story — the day in 1955 when the Parliament in Vienna adopted the Constitutional Law and restored Austria’s independence and reaffirmed its place in Europe. After years of devastation and division, Austria regained not only its sovereignty, but also its moral compass — choosing peace over power, and partnership over confrontation. Yesterday, Austria marked this historic moment for the 60th time since it became an official national holiday —six decades of remembrance, reflection, and quiet pride in a path defined by democracy, responsibility, and the freedom to choose one’s own way.
This is a story that reminds us all that the true strength of a nation is not measured by its might, but by its capacity to rebuild with dignity, to reconcile with its past, and to contribute to a more peaceful Europe.
For us in Kosova, this day carries special resonance. Austria’s journey — from occupation to independence, from division to democracy — mirrors in many ways our own path toward freedom and self-determination. It reminds us that sovereignty is not only about borders, but also about values: justice, solidarity, and human dignity.
Yet today, we celebrate more than history. We celebrate the friendship between Austria and Kosova, built on trust, shared values, and genuine partnership.
Austria has stood by Kosova at every critical stage of our statehood. It was among the first countries to recognize our independence; it has been a steadfast supporter of our European path; and it continues to be one of our most important partners in development, education, security and investment.
For this, I express our deep gratitude.
Allow me to share three reflections on what defines our partnership today.
First – Economic and Technological Cooperation.
Austrian companies are increasingly discovering Kosova — not only as a market, but as a partner for innovation, nearshoring and joint production. Together, we can build sustainable value chains that link the heart of Europe with the heart of the Balkans.
Second – Education and Youth.
Kosova is one of the youngest societies in Europe. Austrian universities and development agencies have opened doors for our young people, creating bridges of knowledge, opportunity, and shared experience. We never forget that it was Austria the first country that recognized diplomas of the University of Prishtina during occupation over three decades ago.
Third – Our European Future.
Austria’s voice in the European Union has always been one of reason, collaboration, and inclusion. We deeply value Austria’s continuous advocacy for Kosova’s European integration. For us, Europe is not only a destination, it is a direction. It is the standard we strive to meet: in democracy, in rule of law and in prosperity.
Dear friends,
As we celebrate Austria’s National Day, now for the 60th time since its official proclamation —we also celebrate the values that unite us: peace, independence, cooperation and friendship.
May the red and white of Austria’s flag remind us: White, for peace and cooperation; Red, for the courage to stand for our convictions.
Thank you. Faleminderit. Danke.
