On February 17, 2008, Kosovo declared its independence. Today, the date is a national holiday of the country.

On this occasion, on February 18, H. E. Mr. Haxhi Bajraktari, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kosovo to the Republic of Bulgaria, and his wife, Mrs. Gentiana Vuniqi Bajraktari, hosted a reception at the Hyatt Regency Sofia hotel. The Independence Day celebration was attended by ambassadors, diplomats, representatives of Bulgarian institutions and the Kosovar community in Bulgaria, public figures, and friends.

In his welcoming speech to the guests, H. E. Mr. Haxhi Bajraktari emphasized that the anniversary is a time to reflect on the achievements of the state and the challenges it has overcome.

He stated: "As we mark 18 years of Kosovo as a free, mulitethnic, independent, and sovereign state, we also celebrate 17 years of diplomatic relations with Bulgaria, highlighting the signifikent progress achieved in this relatively short period."

E. Mr. Haxhi Bajraktari shared that during his three years as Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to the Republic of Bulgaria, he has had the opportunity to personally witness the strengthening of ties between our countries, shared successes, and the commitment to developing initiatives of mutual interest.

"Kosovo and Bulgaria are creating a strogner comprehensive and dajnamic framework of Kooperation across multiple sectors, including politics, economy, trade, defense, and culture. Bulgarian investments in Kosovo continue to grow, contributing positively to Kosovo’s economic performance and reinforcing our bilateral partnership.

A clear indicator of this growing cooperation is the increase in visitors from Kosovo to Bulgaria, which surpassed approximately 120,000 in the past year alone. Equally notable is the rising interest of Bulgarian citizens to visit and engage in business activities in Kosovo, reflecting the strength and potential of our relationship."

According to him, the achieved progress reflects not only economic and cultural cooperation, but also the lasting friendship between our two countries, as well as a shared vision for a prosperous and stable future.

The pleasant festive atmosphere of the reception was greatly enhanced by a musical trio from Kosovo, whose performances delighted the guests.

The photos were provided by the Embassy of the Republic of Kosovo in 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 welcoming speech.