Prishtina, June 18, 2025
Dear Professor Owada and Mrs. Owada,
Dear Ambassador Iwama,
Dear former presidents of the Republic of Kosova, Mr. Fatmir Sejdiu and Madame Atifete Jahjaga,
Dear Ambassador Kiçmari,
Dear Rector Hajrullahu,
Excellences,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a distinct honor and personal pleasure, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Kosova and in my own behalf, to extend to you, dear professor Owada and Mrs. Owada, a most heartfelt welcome to our country. Thank you very much Ambassador Iwama for the kind invitation to this wonderful event.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Rector Arben Hajrullahu and the University of Prishtina for organizing today the important academic ceremony and for conferring the title Doctor Honoris Causa upon Professor Owada. I also thank ambassador Kiçmari and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora for its valuable role in coordinating this meaningful visit.
Ladies and gentleman,
In the recent history of the Republic of Kosova, two landmark events have decisively shaped our state identity: the Declaration of Independence on 17 February 2008 and the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice on 22 July 2010. The first represented the will of our people, freely expressed through their elected representatives; the second affirmed that will within the framework of international law.
At the heart of this historic legal moment stood Professor Hisashi Owada, in his capacity as President of the International Court of Justice. With exemplary competence, integrity, and dignity, Professor Owada led the Court in rendering a decision that confirmed the legality of Kosova’s independence. For this, we are deeply and forever grateful. On behalf of the Government and people of Kosova, I wish to publicly express our enduring appreciation.
Dear friends,
Kosova has had the privilege of being supported by many nations and individuals throughout its path to freedom—especially in the most difficult times. Yet today, we welcome a guest whose presence embodies a rare combination of professional, academic, and diplomatic excellence.
Professor Owada’s distinguished career spans multiple spheres: he has served with distinction in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, including as Deputy Foreign Minister and as Ambassador to the United Nations in New York. He has shared his knowledge as a professor at Harvard University, the University of Tokyo, and Waseda University. He also served as a judge at the International Court of Justice for 15 years, including several years as its President.
What makes his visit to Kosova particularly meaningful is the profound link between his personal and professional legacy and the cause of Kosova’s independence and international recognition. Moreover, Professor Owada is the father of Her Majesty Empress Masako of Japan, who symbolizes the role of a unifying figure for the Japanese nation.
Professor Owada is not only an honoured guest of Kosova – he is a friend whose contributions are deeply embedded in our national history. His leadership in international law, and his commitment to peace and justice, have left an indelible mark on our collective memory.
Kosova was fortunate to have a jurist of his intellectual and moral stature at the helm of the International Court of Justice at such a critical juncture in our statehood. The international legal order, and the principle of peaceful coexistence among nations, have greatly benefited from his clarity of thought and strength of conviction.
Today, the people of Kosova say: Arigato Gozaimas – for your principled leadership, your respect for our democratic will, and your lasting contribution to international peace. You are now part of Kosova’s story—a story of resilience, dignity and hope.
Dear Professor, please consider Kosova your second home. Indeed, your role in our journey has already made you one of us. You are always welcome—today, tomorrow and in the years to come.
With our minds and hearts, we wish you good health, a long life, and continued reflection in the service of science, philosophy and the betterment of humanity.
Once again, Arigato Gozaimas! Thank you! Faleminderit shumë!
