Prishtina, 20 June, 2024
The first Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration, Development and Dialogue of the Republic of Kosovo, Besnik Bislimi, participated last night in the reception organized by the British Embassy in Kosovo, on the occasion of the Birthday of His Majesty, King Charles III.
In his speech, he stated that the United Kingdom holds a special place in our hearts and minds for its continued support to Kosovo.
“In our journey to freedom, the United Kingdom has always been a steadfast ally – a nation that upholds the freedom and democratic values that stood by us during our war and struggle for liberation, and the subsequent years of rebuilding our country. Last week, we hosted former Prime Minister Tony Blair, to mark together 25 years since the liberation of Kosovo. We greatly appreciate and will never forget his unwavering support during the war”, said the deputy prime minister.
Further, he added that Kosovo is already a state aiming for membership in the UN, EU, NATO, Council of Europe, and that is strengthening the foundations of democracy and freedom, civil rights and the rule of law.
“In the aspirations and the journey ahead, we are confident that with the support of the United Kingdom and our Western allies, we will achieve our goals, as our diplomatic relations, bilateral visits, cooperation and people-to-people connection are strengthened day by day. A deeper connection in politics, culture, economy, security and many other areas.” concluded the deputy prime minister.
The complete speech of Deputy Prime Minister Bislimi:
Your excellency, Ambassador Jonathan Hargreaves, Ambassador of UK in Kosova,
Dear present ambassadors and diplomatic corps,
Dear members of the Government and members of the Parliament,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is an honor and a great pleasure, to speak here tonight on the occasion of His Majesty King Charles III’s Birthday, and celebrate together with friends, allies and partners.
On this special occasion, firstly, on behalf of our Government and the people of the Republic of Kosova, I want to wish His Majesty the King and the people of the United Kingdom, lots of health, peace and prosperity.
The United Kingdom holds a special place in our hearts and minds, also because it supported Kosova in difficult chapters and challenging periods, and worked tirelessly for our liberty and independence.
In our quest for freedom, UK has always been a steadfast ally—a nation championing freedom and democratic values that stood by us during the struggles of liberation, war, and the subsequent years of rebuilding our country. Last week, we received ex-Prime Minister Tony Blair, to mark together 25 years since the liberation of Kosova. We highly appreciate and will never forget his displaying of unwavering support during the war, especially on March 23rd 1999 in the House of Commons, where he said, I quote:
“We must act: to save thousands of innocent men, women and children from humanitarian catastrophe, from death, barbarism and ethnic cleansing by a brutal dictatorship; to save the stability of the Balkan region, where we know chaos can engulf all of Europe.”
Today, Kosova is a country seeking membership in the UN, EU, NATO, Council of Europe, and strengthening foundations of democracy and liberty, civil rights and rule of law. In our aspirations and journey ahead of us, we are confident that, with the support of the UK and our Western allies, we will attain our goals, as our diplomatic relations, bilateral visits, cooperation and people to people connection, strengthens day by day. A deeper connection in politics, culture, economy, security, and many other areas.
As we look forward to a prosperous future, in conclusion, I extend once again my warmest wishes to His Majesty the King and the people of the United Kingdom. May our enduring bond, friendship and cooperation continue to thrive and flourish!
Thank you!
Last modified: June 21, 2024