Kosova can always count in the support of the United States and of the Albanian-American community
Honorable Madam President Vjosa Osmani,
Congratulations on your recent election as the President of the Republic of Kosova.
The recent national election and the peaceful transfer of power in Kosova are proof that the democratic system in Kosova has matured.
Kosova has clearly emerged as one of the greatest democracies in the region.
Regardless of their political party affiliations and sympathies, Albanian-Americans are pleased that the process of forming the new government and electing the president is over in Kosova. The political stability assured, the country can now move forward to the numerous pressing matters that face Kosova and its people in our time.
As you sit today in the office, occupied initially by my dear personal friend, Dr. Ibrahim Rugova, the weight of history will be heavy on your shoulders. I am confident that you will carry out your office responsibilities in ways that will make Kosova proud. I hope that you will use your position to inspire unity, tolerance, and cooperation among the political class and the people of Kosova as the country deals with matters of historic proportions especially in the efforts to achieve a long-term agreement with Serbia.
Many of these challenges cannot be faced alone and Kosova can always count in the support of the United States of America. In this context, the Albanian-American community will always be ready to support and help advance the cause of Kosova as we have done for nearly half a century now.
You can certainly count on my personal engagement and support.
Sincerely,
Harry Bajraktari
Harry Bajraktari is founder and publisher of Illyria newspaper (1991-1998), an Albanian-American community leader, philanthropist and recipient of many awards, including the Honor of the Nation Order by the President of Albania, Kosova’s Presidential Medal for Merits & the White House Presidential Call to Service Award.