The New York Senate has approved a resolution honoring the 18th anniversary of Kosovo's declaration of independence.
The resolution emphasizes the country's progress, friendship and partnership with the United States, as well as the contribution of the Kosovar community in New York State, commemorating the past and supporting Kosovo's future.
Result:
“This resolution recognizes that Kosovo Independence Day, which is commemorated annually on 17 February, marks the country’s declaration of independence in 2008; and
That Kosovo, as the second youngest state in Southeastern Europe, on February 17, 2008, declared independence from Serbia after a bloody war that lasted from March 5, 1998 to June 11, 1999; and
That the conflict ended after the intervention of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in March 1999, with air strikes, and Yugoslav forces subsequently withdrew from Kosovo; and
That the Republic of Kosovo, which takes its name from the Serbian region "field of black birds", is a former province of Serbia with a majority ethnic Albanian population; and
That present-day Kosovo traces its roots to Dardania, which created an independent entity known as the Kingdom of Dardania (fourth century BC); and
Since independence, the citizens of Kosovo can rightly be proud of the progress the country has made in promoting and advancing democratic values, strengthening institutions, and providing good governance, the rule of law, and economic opportunities for all Kosovars; and
That the enduring partnership between the United States and Kosovo is based on mutual understanding, shared values, and friendship between our countries; and
That Kosovars in New York State, whether those who arrived before or after independence, have contributed significantly to the cultural diversity and economic vitality of this state, enriching social life with their unique heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to community development; and
That the presence of the Kosovar community in New York has strengthened bilateral ties, promoted understanding and cooperation between Kosovo and the United States, and played a key role in advocating for Kosovo's interests and its recognition in the international arena; and
It is with great pleasure that this legislative body honors and congratulates the people of Kosovo, our friend, partner, and ally, on this important day of independence, recognizing their achievements and supporting their future efforts; therefore:
"BE IT RESOLVED, That this legislative body suspends its proceedings to commemorate the 18th anniversary of Kosovo's independence, celebrating its past, recognizing the present, and looking forward with optimism to the future."
