Prishtina, 17 February 2026
Honourable members of the Government Cabinet,
Dear citizens of the Republic,
Today, at this solemn meeting of the Government, we recall the historic act of the declaration of independence on 17 February 2008.
We remember the endurance and sacrifice of our people. We honor the heroes and activists who fell over the centuries, the peaceful resistance and the armed uprisings after the Second World War, which culminated in the war of the Kosovo Liberation Army.
Today, our independence turns 18. Perhaps a young age for a state, yet an important chapter in our long journey as a people.
Indeed, our state, independence and constitution are new, but our language, culture and people are ancient.
The state of Kosovo has been built and stands upon the values of freedom and democracy, equality and justice, prosperity and inclusiveness. Every citizen, regardless of language or ethnicity, religion or origin, is equal before the law.
In these 18 years, we have achieved much as a state and as a society:
From the early days of international recognitions — which now number 121 — to the consolidation of democratic institutions and the rule of law;
From building a sustainable and growing economy to strengthening our army and defence capacities;
From international victories in sports, art and culture to participation in global forums;
From visa-free travel to concrete steps toward European integration, including applying to join the European Union and the Council of Europe — achievements that make us all proud.
On this day of celebration and reflection, we cannot fail to remember that representatives who took part in the declaration of our Republic’s independence are today being unjustly held in The Hague.
The contribution of each of them to freedom and independence is invaluable, and history will render the just judgment.
Dear citizens,
This year of independence finds us at the beginning of a new governing mandate, with great trust from the citizens of our country. The tasks before us are many and the expectations of citizens are high, yet our motivation is strong and our purpose noble.
For the strengthening and development of our state, let us all commit together through work, knowledge and integrity.
Teachers and students, doctors and workers, soldiers and police officers, young and old, women and men, girls and boys — all of us must give our maximum contribution.
For this is what is expected of us by the many generations who sacrificed themselves over the centuries, as well as by the youth and children of Kosovo, so that we may be free and have our own state. Let us make them proud by working, and by developing and strengthening the state.
The Government, and we as the Cabinet, are merely instruments in achieving this common goal.
Happy 17 February, the Independence Day of our Republic!
Glory and honor to all those who sacrificed for the freedom and the state we enjoy today!
Thank you!
