President Bajram Begaj has been honored with the title of "Honorary Citizen" by the Municipal Assembly of Gjilan, for his contribution to the declaration of independence and his assistance during the last war in Kosovo.
After accepting the award, President Begaj said that Albania will always remain close even in times of peace.
Begaj stated that there must be cooperation among ourselves in order to "strengthen ourselves as Albanians", and as he said, "build a developed economy to rise as high as possible".
Begaj said that Albania and Kosovo should see a common future on the path towards the European Union.
"It is difficult to find the right words to express gratitude, emotions and honors. This title belongs to all Albanians who in the most difficult moments of Kosovo's history stood by you as an inseparable part. We will stand by each other at all times, even in times of peace, because peace to be defended requires something even more difficult, a wise mind, a clear vision and courage to build a future. We must know how to use this opportunity to strengthen each other, to build a united economy, to share together the best experiences, and of course to rise together as Albanians... We want to be part of Europe, because we belong to it with values and history. We are a people that believes in democracy, freedom, justice and the Euro-Atlantic values of a developed Albania. Albania and Kosovo must see a future in a common journey towards the European Union", said Begaj.
The Mayor of Gjilan, Alban Hyseni, said that President Begaj is continuing to contribute to our country.
Hyseni added that Albania's role as a strong supporter of Kosovo's membership in the European Union remains vital.
"A symbolic title that comes as a sign of gratitude and respect for everything you have done for Kosovo and its citizens, especially in the darkest days of our history...During the war period, 98-99, when Kosovo was experiencing war, you were an officer in the Albanian army, ready to come to the aid of your brothers and sisters. This contribution is what drives us today to honor you with this title. All of Kosovo will never forget Albania's help...At this time when Kosovo is consolidating its speed, aiming to become part of the European family, the role of Albania, as a strong supporter remains vital", said Hyseni.
Assembly members from Kosovo's political parties also had appropriate words for the President of Albania, Bajram Begaj.
Assemblyman from the LDK, Gentrit Murseli, continued that Begaj is a president who feels Kosovo is an inseparable part of the soul of Albanians.
"We have seen a leader who understands our history as a guide for the future, a President who feels Kosovo as an inseparable part of the Albanian soul... You are not just a friend but a brother who sheds light on the foundation of unity," Murseli continued.
Meanwhile, Bujar Nevzati from PDK emphasized that continuous steps must be taken towards the unification of Kosovo with Albania.
"All of us generations have grown up with the dream of Albania and we have made part of it a reality with the effort of our struggle for almost a century, the war of the KLA, but of course with the extraordinary help of our Albania... Our present has enabled us to be united by always remembering those who sacrificed for unity. Other steps must be taken towards our unification," he emphasized.
Nazim Gagica from AAK emphasized that this title affirms the unbreakable cooperation between the two states.
"This act takes on special weight. Today, by proclaiming President Begaj as honorary citizens, we affirm once again our unbreakable bond with the state of Albania," Gagica emphasized.
The President of Albania, Bajram Begaj, is on a two-day official visit to Kosovo.