I’ve spoken many times during my tenure as Ambassador to Kosovo about our vision of the Western Balkans as part of a Europe that is “whole, free, and at peace.”

Today President Osmani and Acting U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission Director Kerry Monaghan-Hogler signed an agreement that adds over $34 million dollars in assistance funding to support our many USAID activities here in Kosovo.

Ambassador Hovenier’s Remarks at the signing of the U.S. – Kosovo Agreement concerning Security Measures for the Protection of Classified Information, 24 August, 2023 Prime Minister Kurti, Defense Minister Maqedonci, distinguished guests, it is a pleasure to be here with you this afternoon. We are to mark an important milestone in the relations between our …

(As Prepared) General Director Hoxha, Information and Privacy Agency Commissioner Dermaku, Police Inspectorate of Kosovo Chief Executive Officer Hodaj, Kosovo Police officers and staff, distinguished guests. Good afternoon. I am pleased to participate in today’s ceremony to mark the U.S. Government’s donation of body worn cameras to the Kosovo Police.. These body worn cameras are …

On a hot, muggy, 4th of July, 247 years ago in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, our Founding Fathers pledged their “lives,” their “fortunes,” and their “sacred honor,” to truths they affirmed to be “self-evident.” Namely that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, …

We are concerned. We are Kosovo’s closest partner and the commitment of the American people to Kosovo itself and to the people of Kosovo remains as steadfast as ever. But, we have, and not just the United States, but we have asked the government of Kosovo to take some specific actions to help de-escalate the …

This was a crisis that from our perspective, was unnecessary. The operation that took place on Friday to obtain access to municipal buildings through forcible means was not coordinated with the United States. When we became aware of it, we advised strongly against it, because we anticipated consequences that we are now seeing.

Our shared vision is clear.  That Kosovo continues to transform from an initial “consumer” or ‘importer’ of security from the world’s peace forces to a net “producer” or “exporter” of security helping advance stability and reassurance to the region and the world. I also want to note that U.S. military personnel from U.S. Army Europe …

Ambassadors Remarks at DISICON, May 11th, 2023 Dear Nancy, Ms. Platon, Mr. Benjamin and Ms. Whelan, dear guests. First of all, I want to thank NDI for its leadership and willingness to tackle the important topics of disinformation and cybersecurity here in Kosovo. Thanks also to the EU Office in Kosovo, the Switzerland-based Geneva Center …

This partnership today that we are going to formalize soon is no different and we are excited to see – I’m excited to see how the private sector and universities, Iowa University process, will partner to ensure that higher education in Kosovo is – now my remarks say – is responsive to employer needs. And …

I am delighted by this turnout at the President Clinton statue here in Pristina to mark this public holiday in the United States of America – Presidents’ Day.

Happy Independence Day, Kosovo! I’ve had the privilege & honor to be a part of our shared history, watching Kosovo make great strides over the past 15 years. The United States is proud of our early and enduring support for & partnership with the Kosovan people.

While several U.S. officials have already made this point, I also want to be clear about the position of the United States.  We do not support any arrangement that violates Kosovo’s Constitution, that is inconsistent with the 2015 Constitutional Court decision, or that would threaten Kosovo’s sovereignty, independence, multiethnic character, or democratic institutions.  We strictly …

Thrilled to see young Kosovan talent from media & civil society joining forces & sharing expertise on improving cybersecurity & mitigating threats to ensure freedom of speech and independent media. This is a unique example of collaboration in defense of information integrity.

Honored to speak at American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo Charity Gala Dinner. @AmChamKosovo has been a key partner in enhancing economic ties between Kosovo and the US and I look forward to continued collaboration in the future.

The current law on religious freedom declares the government “shall maintain an open, transparent and regular dialogue with religious associations, [and] religious communities in matters of common interest,” and this public discussion certainly honors that commitment. And we applaud the presence, participation, and advocacy of faith-based groups here today.  I know the religious communities here …

We are committed to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities and supporting communities in Kosovo and around the world in the quest for a more inclusive society.

Corruption diminishes public and private resources, and at its worst, funds transnational crimes and human rights abusers. Because corruption chips away at the foundations of democracy, steals from average citizens, and empowers those seeking to undermine the rule of law, our U.S. strategy emphasizes the importance of working closely with our international partners to improve …

Ambassador Hovenier’s Remarks at the Crime Victims’ Rights Week Ceremony, 24 October 2022 Good morning. Thank you, President Osmani, Acting Chief State Prosecutor Kelmendi and distinguished guests. I am honored to join you to commemorate Kosovo’s 13th annual Crime Victim’s Rights Week. October is also National Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month in the United …

Ambassador Hovenier’s Remarks for Women Peace and Security Panel: Lessons from Albright’s Legacy on WPS, October 22, 2022 President Osmani, distinguished guests: I’m honored to join such an illustrious group to share my thoughts on Secretary Albright’s impact and legacy. Those who have spoken before me, including that moving message from Secretary Blinken, have highlighted …

We must remain united in our support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, democracy, and European aspirations. Russia’s aggression in Ukraine is one of the most consequential events for Europe since World War II. Russian forces have committed war crimes and atrocities, and their war in Ukraine will have negative ramifications on global food insecurity and the global …

First, I want to talk a little bit about the decisions themselves — these decisions on entry/exit documents and this decision on the exchange of license plates to citizens of Kosovo so that citizens have a license plate issued by the Republic of Kosovo. From the United States Perspective these decisions are completely appropriate and …

It is an honor to host you all as we advance our shared commitment to increasing accountability and transparency and closing the space for corruption. We are here to celebrate our work together to improve public procurement through USAID’s new Kosovo Municipal Integrity Activity. And I’m delighted we can showcase this partnership here at the …

Here in Kosovo, the U.S. supports programs across the energy sector. Our main goals are to enhance private sector investments to integrate renewable energy sources into the existing power grid, and to lower costs and increase access to affordable and sustainable energy.

Today, as we celebrate 246 years of the United States as a free, independent, sovereign state, we also celebrate together Kosovo’s 14 years of independence and the extraordinary progress you have made in that short period of time.

This Pride Month, we proudly raised the Pride flag at our embassy campus and at my residence. Our community members from across U.S. government agencies will participate in civil society-organized Pride week events in support of our shared vision of equal rights for all LGBTQI+ people.

Ambassador Hovenier’s Remarks at the “Lëvizja Fol” Domestic Violence and Rule of Law Event, May 18, 2022 Minister, distinguished guests, civil society activists, and colleagues – thank you for welcoming me today to discuss your important joint work preventing and combatting domestic violence. Mahatma Ghandi reportedly once said ‘the true measure of any society can …

We celebrate the impressive progress that Kosovo has made to further the number of women political leaders during this 10th anniversary of the Week of Women. Many of you in the audience today are to be thanked for that progress. We are joined by some of Kosovo’s strongest advocates, dedicated activists, and steadfast supporters of …

Happy Independence Day Kosovo

I am thrilled to be here to welcome this U.S. donation of more than half a million safe, effective Pfizer vaccine doses.  This is the third delivery of U.S. donated vaccines against COVID-19, and brings the total number of vaccines donated by the American people to Kosovo to over one million doses.  

As prosecutors, it is important that you serve as an example, setting the highest standards in all that you do, both in and out of court.  Right now, you have an important process coming up, selection of the next Chief State Prosecutor.  It is important that the Kosovo Prosecutorial Council conducts a fair, transparent, and …

Ambassador Hovenier’s first Kosovo television interview with Bashkim Vishaj on RTK Prime.

Watch the video to learn more about his prior experiences, his priorities, and what he looks forward to seeing & doing during his time here. Join us in welcoming him as he and his family make Kosovo their new home!

Like many people living in Kosovo, recently I’ve spent time discussing the role of the opposition in government formation, and more broadly, day-to-day governance. From my conversations, I’m struck that many in the public – and some politicians – seem uncertain on the role of a responsible opposition in Kosovo’s parliamentary system.

KLA fighters died to expand the freedoms of the people of Kosovo, not to restrict them. The Assembly of Kosovo should not, in seeking to demonstrate respect for the KLA, inadvertently undermine its legacy.

I believe that both Vetevendosje and LDK are committed to building a coalition that will effectively represent all the people of Kosovo.  I think on October 6 the people voted for change and these parties are committed to that.  It’s important to note that this new coalition government must include representation from beyond those two …

I think it’s clear that on October 6 the people of Kosovo voted for change and LDK and Vetevendosje are committed to building a coalition that will bring about change and progress for all the people of Kosovo.  I share the eagerness of Kosovo citizens to actually see this process completed so the new government …

Ambassador Kosnett’s Interview with Koha Ditore, December 2, 2019 Koha Ditore: After nearly two months, the elections are finally certified.  Vetëvendosje and LDK have announced an agreement for coalition.  What do you expect from the new government?  What are the main challenges for the government? Ambassador Kosnett:  I think this is a very exciting time …

You know, I’m an optimist. I believe that it’s clear that the people of Kosovo, and the people of Serbia are dissatisfied with the current situation. We talk a lot at the U.S. Embassy about the importance of economic development in Kosovo, the importance of fighting corruption, of establishing justice for everybody, no matter what …

First, I encourage the leaders of the new government to meet early on with survivors to highlight the importance of treating them with respect and to hear their stories firsthand.   This is the sort of leadership and compassion the citizens of any country should expect from their leaders.

In Kosovo as in America, every vote counts. Every voice matters. Whatever your views, whomever you support – on October 6, turn out and vote. For yourself, for your country, for your future.

Today, Kosovo citizens rate their Police as the most trusted institution in the country.  The United States is proud to have played a role in the development and professionalization of the Police, through funding, training, and operational cooperation.  This has been a long-term effort, involving the U.S. Department of State and the Department of Justice– …

This year marked the twentieth anniversary of many of the most horrific incidents that occurred in Kosovo.  It is a painful anniversary and I have had the solemn honor to participate in several remembrance ceremonies. My wife Alison and I have listened to stories of suffering, courage, and compassion from all corners of Kosovo and …

The presence of officials from both the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of State is a demonstration of my government’s enduring commitment to the development of Kosovo’s law enforcement and judicial institutions.

The position of my government is that we think that the dialogue is necessary to create conditions of peace and justice and prosperity for Kosovo and its neighbors, and we strongly support rapid resumption of the dialogue.

The survivors deserve not just our compassion, but our commitment. As the American scholar and diplomat Benjamin Franklin said more than two centuries ago: “Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.”

When I arrived in Kosovo last year, I was struck by the progress since my first tour here in 2003not just physical progress, like new roads and new IT infrastructure, but the achievements of a rising generation of educated, energetic citizens. TLP alumni exemplify Kosovo’s rising leaders. Thanks to TLP scholarships, nearly 300 Kosovo citizens …

I was very happy, very impressed, with what I saw on the ground today. I think that young people in Kosovo in particular, show a lot of energy, a lot of vision, for their own futures and for the future of the country.

Today, on the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, we celebrate the global movement toward greater awareness and recognition of the rights of individuals from the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community.  We also join our voices to the call for greater dignity and equality for all persons, regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, …

As an American Ambassador I think it’s important to visit all corners of the country, get to know people—not just government officials—but people who work in civil society, ordinary citizens, local people to understand not just their problems, but how they see the future and what opportunities they see for themselves in their communities.  So …

It is vital to the United States that we continue to see to the safety and security of all of citizens of Kosovo—that includes the Serb community. In that regard, there have been calls, there have been suggestions that ethnic Serbs should pull out of the police, pull out of the judicial institutions, pull out …

I am excited about this opening for several reasons.  First, and I think I can say obviously, Burger King is a world leader in the restaurant business, and I know that thousands of Kosovo citizens have already enjoyed their fresh and delicious food since the soft opening in December.  The high levels of consumer interest …

A durable, implementable compromise agreement is in both countries’ interest.  Long-term stability and prosperity for both Kosovo and Serbia depend on a return to the EU-led Dialogue, and the courage to overcome the past and build a shared future together.  If Serbia and Kosovo are ready to embark on this path, the United States will …

What we want for Kosovo and for the other countries in the region is peace, prosperity and justice. In the last twenty years, I think it’s fair to say the United States has done more than any other country to support our Kosovo friends in building a new country, building democracy, building rule of law …

The Embassy is proud to collaborate on this two-day training, which provides the organizational framework of laws and policies for leaders to consider when investigating and prosecuting terrorists.  This is an important event for rule of law and regional security.

This country has already made significant progress and achieved democratic gains.  It has run credible elections and passed landmark legislation on human rights. Its artists, athletes, and musicians have raised Kosovo’s profile on the international stage.  Over half the world’s countries have recognized Kosovo as an independent nation.

Ambassador Kosnett’s Interview with KoSsev Portal, December 28, 2019 KOSSEV: Kosovo President, Hasim Tachi’s advisor, Bekim Colak, said that the US and the EU expressed dissatisfaction over a 100 percent tariff and announced a proposal on the readiness to temporarily suspend this measure, in the spirit of continuing the dialogue, and this is the first …

I first visited Prizren about fifteen years ago when I previously worked at the American Office in Pristina and I always remembered it as a beautiful city full of history and culture with wonderful people.  In particular, I am very impressed by the multi-cultural aspect of the city—people of various backgrounds and from various communities …

Well, you know we’ve all been working for normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia for a long time. Certainly my government has supported that for a long time. And I think it’s a little bit too soon to figure out exactly what to expect. Because I think there’s been this great conversation going on …

The United States is one of Kosovo’s closest friends and supporters. Despite what you may read in the press, that has not changed; and that will not change. The partnership between our countries is deep and multi-dimensional, and we work hard every day to advance our common goals of democracy, security, and prosperity.

Hello! I’m Philip Kosnett. Fifteen years ago, I served at the American diplomatic mission in Pristina. Now I’m honored to return as ambassador to help strengthen the close friendship between our two great countries.

Well, you know we’ve all been working for normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia for a long time. Certainly my government has supported that for a long time. And I think it’s a little bit too soon to figure out exactly what to expect. Because I think there’s been this great conversation going on …

Success is no accident, and whether it’s in agriculture, the rule of law, energy security, or anything else, there are no shortcuts.  It takes information, collaboration, courage, and a lot of persistence to change minds and achieve lasting results.  It takes a level playing field in which merit and hard work are rewarded, to inspire …

I am increasingly concerned about political influence being exercised on the courts at all levels.  Kosovo only has a viable European future if the courts are independent, uncorrupted, and follow the law and Constitution.  I hope this coalition will continue to shed light on the issue and press for progress on the single most important …

An investment by Domino’s in Kosovo is an investment by one of the most successful U.S. brands in the international market.   When other U.S. companies see what Domino’s and other franchises are doing in Kosovo, they will be more inclined to explore their own opportunities here.

And I cannot, on this day that coincidently is the same day the Constitutional Court loses quorum, omit a call for the urgent selection and appointment of professional, apolitical, experienced justices to fill the remaining vacancies. Leaving this critical institution non-functional is unacceptable, and packing it politically would be a tragedy for the Court and …

Kosovo is a multiethnic society and it depends on everybody to do his or her best to live with their neighbors. Everyone has a responsibility to live peacefully with his or her neighbors.

Kosovo has come a long way on this issue in a short time, and I applaud everyone working hard to overcome prejudices and change minds. Don’t give up, and the United States will be here to support you every step of the way.

Ambassador Delawie’s Interview with TV Dukagjini, May 16, 2018 TV Dukagjini: Thank you Mr. Ambassador for coming here. It is a great pleasure to have you in the studio for the first time. There are possibilities to give good messages during this interview! Ambassador Delawie: It is terrific to be here Arben, I really appreciate …

Ambassador Delawie’s Remarks at BONEVET Pristina Launch, April 24, 2018 Thank you very much. It’s terrific to be here with you tonight. I remember the first time I went to BONEVET in Gjakova a year and a half or two years ago. It was just an amazing experience, I remember it to this day. All …

You all are the future of Kosovo, and that future is bright.  Be proud of how far Kosovo has come in the ten years since independence, and know that your country is counting on you to be the future leaders needed to ensure Kosovo continues down the right path. Be like Captain Shults, and do …

For us, this is an issue of justice; it is an issue of family; it is an issue of fairness; and it is an issue of economy. It is extraordinarily important for Kosovo’s future that Kosovo’s women be able to participate in the economy on the same basis as men. If you can’t inherit or …

Ambassador Delawie’s Interview with Kossev, March 5, 2018 Kossev: It has been your first visit after the assassination of designated Serbian political leader, Mr. Oliver Ivanovic. The Embassy reacted immediately after this tragic event – you strongly condemned it. And, you are spending the day – all day long here in the North Mitrovica. Who did …

As Kosovo’s energy sector takes big steps to modernize itself, this internship program is therefore playing a pivotal role at a pivotal time, equipping students with the skills and technical knowledge they need to lead the sector into the future.  It also helps attract needed talent to the sector by giving students confidence that their …

This is really ushering in a new era for veterinary and phytosanitary inspections.  And we’re proud to continue a tradition of working with the KFVA to improve the quality of Kosovo products and services.

I’ve met with countless agribusinesses and local farmers since I came to Kosovo and I’ve seen first-hand how their hard work has changed their lives and their livelihoods.  It’s inspiring, and I’m so proud of our partnership as we work to generate increased returns on investment, reach new markets, improve quality standards – and above …

We care about the Special Court because we want to see Kosovo take up its rightful place as a European country by joining NATO and the EU.  Changing or undoing the law on the Special Court and demonstrating contempt for Rule of Law would set Kosovo back years on its integration into European institutions.  If …

The United States will be there with you, every step of the way. Happy New Year, Urime Viti i Ri, Srećna Nova Godina!

The start of a new year offers a perfect opportunity to step back and assess: where have we been, and where must we go next? Just weeks from the tenth anniversary of Kosovo’s independence, these questions resonate especially.

It is incredible to consider how far Kosovo has come in 10 years. Kosovo should be proud of its democratic legislative framework, free and credible elections, and growing economy. Of course, the challenge for Kosovo’s next ten years is: how can this country tackle next-level problems like corruption, an efficient energy supply, equal opportunities for …

Interview of Ambassador Delawie with Epoka e Re for New Year edition How do you assess the initiative of some MPs for the nullification of the Law on Special Court? Well, first of all I have to say I was outraged by the effort on Friday to abrogate the Law on the Special Court.  The …

Good evening everybody. I’m here at the Assembly building. There is an initiative that has come up, apparently, there is an effort underway to repeal the law on the Special Court for Kosovo. I want to make it very clear that we the United States oppose any effort to change or repeal the law on …

Congratulations to both parties. This is a great day for Kosovo’s energy security. This success is thanks to many. I want to acknowledge the leadership of President Thaci, Prime Minister Haradinaj, Ministers, and members of the Project Steering Committee. I think it is also important to point out the important contributions of former Prime Minister …

December is always a good time to look back and review the year we’re bidding farewell to, and this past one recorded significant achievements. Kosovo went through peaceful elections and transition to a new government; witnessed Kosovo as a top ten reformer in the World Bank Doing Business report; integrated Kosovo’s courts; and soon, the …

Ambassador Delawie’s Interview with KTV,  December 5, 2017 KTV: Welcome to Rubikon Mr. Ambassador. Ambassador Delawie: Thank you Adriatik, it is great to be here. KTV: We are in Anti-Corruption Week in Kosovo. The Embassy is sponsoring the Anti-Corruption Campaign. What are the key issues that the U.S. Embassy is involved in this area? Ambassador Delawie: …

Official Gazette Database: Outreach Campaign Launch Event, November 30, 2017 It’s great to be here. Prime Minister Haradinaj, Ministers, diplomatic colleagues, thank you for being part of this event, and thank you to everyone who helped make this day possible. I believe so deeply in our partnership with Kosovo, and I have a lot of …

I am extremely proud that the U.S. Embassy has strongly supported this week since its inception eight years ago, and each year that I’ve spoken I have had the pleasure of highlighting the significant progress that Kosovo has made on crime victims’ rights.  As always, there is more work to do, but over the last …

Ambassador Delawie’s Interview with RTV KiM, October 18, 2017 RTV KiM: Ambassador Delawie, good evening and welcome. Ambassador Delawie: Thank you Alexandra, it is great to be here. RTV KiM: My first question is about elections. Some participants in this election race say there is a lot of pressure, people losing their jobs, they are …

I have been meeting with many of the new ministers of the new government and my expectation and my hope is that all of them will work to advance the interest of Kosovo and Kosovo’s citizens, both domestically and in the world. The priorities I have been talking about are rule of law, economic development, …

We and your sponsoring institutions selected you for ILEA training not as a reward for your past accomplishments but as an investment in future partners who will end the culture of corruption and political interference in the judicial and security sectors in Kosovo.  You now have an obligation to take what you’ve learned and use …

I came to express my personal condolences regarding the attack on his wife that happened earlier this week. I reject violence of any kind, the United States rejects violence of any kind as a political tool. I certainly expressed our personal concern regarding the attack on Ms. Stavileci and I also delivered a letter from …

I think delay costs Kosovo politically, economically and internationally. I have to remind the members of Parliament, all of them, that they have been elected to be public servants.

My advice is to all of Kosovo’s politicians and it is to find a way to put the interests of their country first so that Kosovo can continue to make progress on its path toward European institutions and normalization of its relations with the world.

Ambassador Delawie’s Interview with TV Herc, July 20, 2017 TV Herc: Your Excellency, thank you for your time for this interview. Today you visited in Strpce a project supported by the U.S. Government through USAID. Are you satisfied with the implementation and with what you saw? Ambassador Delawie: First of all, thank you very much for …

Ambassador Delawie’s Interview with Radio Free Europe, July 14, 2017 Radio Free Europe: What have you been discussing with official leaders during this week regarding the new institutions? Ambassador Delawie: I’ve been seeing many political leaders, and I still have a couple more to go in the next couple of days. This is what diplomats …

Ambassador Delawie’s Fourth of July Interview with Radio Kosova, July 4, 2017 Radio Kosova: Mr. Ambassador, thank you very much for the interview and for the chance to speak with us. Happy 241st Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. How do you celebrate the marking of this occasion this year? Ambassador Delawie: Thank you very …

Ambassador’s Remarks at 2017 Independence Day Celebration, June 30 2017 Mirembrema; Dobra vecer; Good evening, and happy Independence Day to you all! It is my pleasure to host all of you tonight for our Northeastern Beach Party, but I want to give a special welcome to Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard Major General …

We’re counting on you too, we’re so proud of you, and we can’t wait to see what you’ll all do next. Thank you very much.

Ambassador Delawie’s Remarks at the Via Dinarica Trail Inauguration, June 15, 2017 Thank you very much.  I’m really excited to see so many enthusiastic mountain climbers – real mountain climbers and amateurs, like me – today to enjoy the beautiful mountains and beautiful weather.  It is absolutely terrific. This is actually my first opportunity to see the …

I think in general across the country, things are going pretty well. I am very happy that civil society and media such as yourself are getting voters a lot of information about what the candidates’ positions are and where people can vote and things like that. So I am very positive about that.

I’m always encouraged when I see the strong participation of civil society organizations stepping up in Kosovo. It’s great that you were all able to come together today, because this effort requires a multitude of actors to coordinate and communicate in order to be successful.

Ambassador Delawie’s Remarks at Democracy in Action Election Video Awards Ceremony, June 8, 2017 It’s great to be here today, and thank you to Democracy in Action and the Kosovo Democratic Institute for putting this wonderful event together on such a beautiful day and for creating such a creative and effective public outreach campaign.  I think …

Good morning, I am really pleased to be here today for what I am sure we will all agree is a great opportunity to further highlight and fully take advantage of the many forensics capabilities your Forensics Agency and its experts have developed over the years. Both OPDAT and ICITAP have worked with many of …