Des Moines, Iowa, June 13, 2013
The Prime Minister of Kosovo, Hashim Thaci was received with honors in the capital of Iowa, Des Moines, at the seat of government of Iowa, the State Capitol, by the Governor of Iowa, Terry E. Branstad, Iowa senators, Daryl Beall, Rita Hart, state representatives Dan Kelley, Deborah Berry and Mark Lofgren, as well as business and cultural representatives.
At the initial reception, the Prime Minister was introduced to the achievements of this State by Iowa state senators and representatives, who also praised cooperation between Iowa and Kosovo.
The Prime Minister gave a speech at State Capitol, in the presence of Iowa senators and representatives, General Orr of the Iowa National Guard, and Tom Rial, President of the Board of Directors, Iowa Sister States organization.
Prime Minister Thaci thanked the United States of America for their distinct support to Kosovo, in particular since the collapse of communism, and praised the contributions of all American presidents.
Kosovo is a lucky to have a friend like the United States of America, said the Prime Minister, adding his high appraisal for the contribution of the State of Iowa, which is offering particular help to Kosovo, especially to the Kosovo Security Force.
Prime Minister urged for a widening of the scope of cooperation in education, security and other sectors of agriculture. “Kosovo needs your experience,” said Prime Minister Thaci.
The Prime Minister was also received by Governor Terry Branstad, who expressed his satisfaction for the presence of the Prime Minister of Kosovo in the state of Iowa.
The Prime Minister made a recapitulation of relations between the U.S. and Kosovo, stressing the fact that the U.S. supported Kosovo during its most difficult moments in history, in all the processes that led to liberation and independence.
Governor Branstad assured Prime Minister Thaci that cooperation will deepen in other fields. Partnership and cooperation between Kosovo and Iowa will increase with the upcoming visit of Governor Branstad to Kosovo.
Prime Minister Thaci also visited KEMIN Company, one of the major companies in food industry, and was introduced to the capabilities and quality of the company.
At the end of the visit, Prime Minister Thaci visited the Air Force base in Des Moines
Last modified: July 31, 2022