“Since 2003, when we first mobilized Iowa National Guard soldiers to serve in Kosovo as part of NATOs KFOR mission, Kosovo and its people have held a special place in our state and among our citizens. Hundreds of Iowans, both military and civilian, have traveled to Kosovo and fallen in love with your great country. Now, we are engaged in daily interaction, working side by side to improve the operational capabilities of the Kosovo Security Force, develop and secure business and agricultural ties between our countries and create educational and cultural exchange opportunities for our citizens. Your 10th anniversary of independence is very important to me personally. Few things in my own career compare to the incredible satisfaction of working together with our Kosovar friends and partners to build what is recognized as the best state partnership program in the world. Congratulations on 10 years of independence. I look forward to many more years of working together to strengthen the bonds between or citizens and the mutual security interests of the United States of America and the Republic of Kosovo.”
