Today, the President of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani was invited to address the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Opening the session, the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola highlighted the urgent need for de-escalation and cooperation over confrontation.
Dear colleagues,
Today, we are joined by President Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu of Kosovo. President Osmani, thank you for accepting our invitation to address the European Parliament.
Dear President, we know full well, of Kosovo’s commitment to a European path and I know your commitments to ensure the necessary conditions to advance down this path to continue to be implemented in earnest.
Let me say from the outset that we are grateful for your support in providing shelter to Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s illegal invasion and your support in aligning with us on sanctions. Because we must keep standing with Ukraine.
This House stood with you when it seemed impossible and I think we can all recognise just how far Kosovo has come. The journey towards visa-free travel has been an arduous one. But together we can be proud now, that by January 1st next year, Kosovo citizens will be granted this freedom too.
Democracy, freedom of expression, and the rule of law are all fundamental values that this House of Parliament stands by, vociferously. We are well aware of the challenges and consequences that recent events in your country can have on the stability in the region and the continuous need for the European Union to keep underlining the benefits of de-escalation and cooperation over confrontation.
Kosovo’s journey continues and this House welcomes your country’s endeavour to tackle challenges head on, by the need for resolute and immediate steps to calm tensions, to cooperate with international partners, with our Member States; and investing in cross-border projects and partnerships.
This Parliament wants to hear from the people of Kosovo on how best to create economic prosperity, opportunity and long-term stability progress in your region.
Let us continue our constructive dialogue, to ensure tangible results for us all.
Madam President, you have the floor.