Kosovo marked the 17th anniversary of its declaration of independence with celebrations, a parade, and flag-adorned streets.
Seventeen years after declaring independence, Kosovo marked its anniversary with grand celebrations across the capital. Citizens filled the flag-lined streets, enjoying music while security forces and the army paraded through the city’s main squares in a show of national pride.
Hundreds of citizens gathered in the capital’s squares to celebrate the occasion, while many were particularly eager to witness the parade of security forces and the army marching through the main squares.
Citizens celebrate the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s independence in the squares of Prishtina, Feb. 17, 2025. Photo: Prishtina Insight
Kushtrim Berveniku, who lives and works in Sweden, came with his wife and daughter to celebrate Independence Day.
“It is the first time I saw the army parading like this, and it made me feel really good. I was even happier that my daughter got to see it too because I want her to grow up with a sense of national identity and to know her roots,” Berveniku said while walking on ‘Mother Teresa’ Square in Prishtina.
Jokingly, he added, “It is cold today, and these soldiers had to wait a long time, it must have been freezing for them as well.”
He emphasised that he hopes the people of Kosovo will not be too focused on political parties.
“There should not be divisions among citizens, you are with us or them. Work together so at least these kids do not flee the country,” he further added.
Citizens gather at Prishtina centre square for the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s independence on Feb. 17, 2025. Photo: Prishtina Insight
Kosovo’s Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, expressed gratitude to the people of Kosovo, the country’s heroes, martyrs, war veterans, war invalids, and Kosovo’s American and European allies.
“As we celebrate today, we proudly remember our long journey toward freedom and independence,” Kurti declared during the festive government meeting on February 17, 2025.
Despite Kosovo being under EU sanctions since 2023, Kurti affirmed the country’s progress, stating, “Our republic is stronger and more vital today than ever before.”
Kosovo’s President, Vjosa Osmani, marked the occasion with a brief but powerful message written on Facebook: “Free, independent, sovereign, eternal!”
The Kosovo Security Force and Kosovo Police parade marking the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s Independence on Feb. 17, 2025. Photo: BIRN/Denis Sllovinja
The President of the United States, Donald Trump, also extended his congratulations on Kosovo’s 17th anniversary of independence.
“The bonds between our people are strong, and we look forward to expanding them, particularly by increasing investment opportunities to bring greater prosperity to both our nations. The United States will continue to work with Kosovo in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting economic growth through a stable and fair business environment,” Trump stated in his congratulatory letter sent to President Osmani.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also congratulated Kosovo’s Independence Day, stating:
“On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations as you mark the 17th anniversary of Kosovo’s declaration of independence—an occasion to reflect on the resilience, determination, and aspirations of the people of Kosovo.”
Newborn Monument in Prishtina, Kosovo, Photo: Fisnik Ismaili/Facebook Account
The ‘NEWBORN’ monument, a well-known symbol of Kosovo’s independence located in Prishtina’s centre that changes annually to reflect current events, focused this year on Artificial Intelligence, AI.
“Whether you love it or fear it, Artificial Intelligence is here, and every day it is becoming an unavoidable part of our lives,” wrote the monument’s creator, Fisnik Ismaili on Facebook.
So far, 117 countries have officially recognised Kosovo as an independent state. However, challenges remain, including ongoing dialogue with Serbia, recognition by five EU member states, and aspirations for membership in international organisations such as the EU, NATO, and the United Nations.
Serbia had initially challenged the legitimacy of Kosovo’s independence declaration at the International Court of Justice. However, in July 2010, the court ruled in favour of Kosovo, confirming that the declaration of independence made two and a half years earlier was fully legitimate.