Press Statement by Rex W. Tillerson, Secretary of State, on the occasion of Kosovo’s National Day

On behalf of President Trump and the American people, it is my pleasure to congratulate the citizens of Kosovo on the ninth anniversary of your independence as you celebrate this February 17.

The United States values its strong friendship with Kosovo based on mutual aspirations for stability, peace, and prosperity for all of our citizens. We applaud the progress the people of Kosovo have made in developing democratic, multiethnic institutions over their nine years of independence. In 2016, the United States was pleased to witness Kosovo’s first Olympic gold medal and Kosovo’s national football team play its inaugural year in FIFA. We look forward to Kosovo’s continued achievements as it works to strengthen rule of law, counter violent extremism, and build positive relationships with its neighbors and around the world.

The United States remains committed to helping Kosovo succeed, and we will continue to work with its leaders and people in the pursuit of peace and prosperity.