The President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, has said that Kosovo remains grateful for the service, sacrifice and dedication of NATO troops and that this mission is a symbol of cooperation and unity.
At the KFOR Change of Command ceremony, she added that Kosovo and its people have always aligned themselves with the values of freedom, democracy and collective security.
"Kosovo will always remain grateful for your service, for your sacrifice, and for your unwavering commitment to peace. May this mission continue to be a symbol of NATO's enduring commitment and a living promise that together, unity truly conquers all. This great cause truly requires the effort of each and every one of us," Osmani declared.
Osmani reaffirmed Kosovo's aspiration to join NATO and underlined the importance of stability and partnership with allies for maintaining peace and stability.
"At a time when threats to peace are multiplying, the alliance is strongest when it stands with partners who have truly proven their commitment. Kosovo has done this repeatedly, through our resilience, our reforms, and the determination of our people. And we will continue to do so alongside our allies, because only together can we ensure that the hard-won peace of today becomes the lasting peace of tomorrow. But we must make it clear: there are those who seek to undo all that we have achieved, who want to take us back to the past. To them, our response must be determined. Making concessions to dictators and autocrats cannot be the answer, because history shows this time and time again. Partnership cannot be given to those who commit aggression against their neighbors," the president stressed.