On the occasion of the 17th anniversary of the declaration of independence of the Republic of Kosovo, H. E. Mr. Haxhi Bajraktari,

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the country to Bulgaria, and his wife Mrs. Gentiana Vuniqi Bajraktari, gave a reception on February 17 at the Central Military Club in Sofia. The Independence Day brought together representatives of Bulgarian institutions, ambassadors, diplomats, friends and representatives of the Kosovar diaspora in Bulgaria.

In his welcoming address to the guests, H. E. Mr. Haxhi Bajraktari shared:

It is a special pleasure to be here before you tonight on this important day for our Republic!

17 years ago, the history of Kosovo marked the most important chapter in its journey, making every citizen proud, and now, 17 years later, in addition to emotion and pride we feel, we would like to express gratitude to all those who contributed to the process of consolidating the statehood and international subjectivity of the Republic of Kosovo. Without a doubt, one of the most active countries in these processes was and continues to be Bulgaria. Therefore, on behalf of the Institutions of the Republic of Kosovo, we thank the Bulgarian authorities for their continuous support!

Of course, holidays take on their true meaning only when they are celebrated with friends. Mainly, the notes of national holidays are the best moment to reflect and recapitulate the trends that have traversed the bilateral relations between the countries.

But, considering that we are at a solemn event, I will try not to burden you too much with figures and formalities, but allow me to briefly emphasize that the period between the 16th and 17th anniversary that we are celebrating tonight, has marked one of the most dynamic periods of bilateral relations between the Republic of Kosovo and Bulgaria. During this one-year period, we have finalized agreements and documents that open new opportunities for cooperation in areas of culture, agriculture and transport, and we have initiated and are working together on other agreements, aiming to give a new dynamic of cooperation to crucial segments, such as economy, defense and security. When we are on the subject of security, allow me to mention the fact that the past year was challenging for Kosovo, as it was faced with successive attacks and criminal acts, but thanks to authorities efficient response, and also the support from our allies and friends, order and security was restored and maintained in that part of the country.

Beyond this, to complete the picture of bilateral relations, another indicator of the intensification of relations should be mentioned, which are official visits and meetings, which also during this period have been in different formats and levels, but which have culminated with the visit of the Prime Minister and President of the Republic of Kosovo to Sofia, once again proving the excellent relations between our two countries and at the same time resulting in new ideas and initiatives in the service of strengthening relations between our two countries and the European integration processes.

Once again, thank you for your presence,

Cheers

After the toast, the attendees indulged in conversations in the warm, friendly atmosphere created by the hosts. And as at any celebration, they shared both the wonderful wines and traditional dishes of Kosovo, as well as some cheerful mood.

Photos courtesy of the Embassy of the Republic of Kosovo to the Republic of Bulgaria.

Above: H. E. Mr. Haxhi Bajraktari, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kosovo to the Republic of Bulgaria delivers his speech.