WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres (NY-15) today issued the following statement in commemoration of the 15^th anniversary of Kosovo declaring its independence from Serbia:

“Today, we pause to acknowledge the strength, resilience, and culture of Kosovo – one of our nation’s greatest allies as it celebrates the 15^th anniversary of its independence from Serbia.

Rising from the ruins of ethnic cleansing at the hands of one of the most murderous dictators of the 20th century, Kosovo has grown significantly since 2008 by making substantial reforms to curb corruption and increase economic activity and opportunity.

Most recently, Kosovo entered a five-year compact with our country’s Millennium Challenge

Corporation – worth $202 million and aimed at improving workforce development and clean energy production.

As far as Kosovo and its people have come and endured, there is more progress to be made. The continued dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia facilitated by the European Union is promising. But a final agreement must ensure the fair and equitable treatment of Kosovo by all nations within the Balkan region.

The United States has no greater friend in Southeast Europe than Kosovo and Kosovo should have no greater friend in the world than the United States. It is critical that we continue to support and stand with Kosovo and the nearly two million people who are proud to call it home.”

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