Kurti: This Century Belongs to Albanians, This Decade to Self-Determination

“This century belongs to Albanians; this decade to Self-determination,” declared Kosovo’s Prime Minister Albin Kurti as he stepped into 2025, sharing the message alongside a photograph with his wife, Rita Augestad Knudsen.

Kurti reiterated his vision in a series of public addresses marking the end of 2024, his second set of remarks in just a week.

“This is a new era for our state, where we have achieved significant results in building a stronger and more internationally recognized country,” he stated.

Reflecting on the year behind, Kurti described 2024 as “a year of respect for laws and strengthening the rule of law.”

Achievements Showcased

Kurti highlighted numerous accomplishments under his administration, including:

Increases in salaries, pensions, social benefits, and one-time financial aid; Visa liberalization and international recognition of Kosovo’s passports; Securing Kosovo’s first credit rating; Exiting the energy bloc with Serbia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, followed by integration into OST with Albania; Implementing energy registration and billing in northern Kosovo; Conversion of driving licenses and closure of illegal Serbian institutions; Documenting war crimes and enhancing national defense capabilities.

Northern Kosovo in Focus

Integration requires readiness, persistence, and dedication—not giving up from the outset,” he said, addressing the projects his government has undertaken in the North and concerning the Serbian community.

He also emphasized record levels of development projects, social programs, and support for minority communities regardless of ethnicity.

The Prime Minister highlighted the closure of many “illegal structures” in the north, which he described as „unlawful.“ He noted that public spaces in the region have transformed from areas of fear and surveillance to dynamic parts of Kosovo’s development.

The North as a Center of Activity

North Mitrovica and the surrounding northern region have become an increasingly dynamic area of focus for Kosovo authorities for the second consecutive year. Following the withdrawal of Serbs from Kosovo institutions—primarily in the North—and their passive stance at the central level, including the Banjska incident, Kosovo authorities have significantly expanded their influence and control over the region.

The region has become a favored destination for both senior officials and citizens from the south, as well as members of the Albanian diaspora during the New Year holiday season.

Groups of visitors frequently stroll along the promenade toward the city center, with many gathering in local cafes under the watchful eye of Kosovo police, both in plainclothes and uniformed with long-barreled weapons.

With parliamentary elections scheduled for February 9, Kosovo’s leadership is maintaining its focus on the north. As they did at the start of 2024, government officials ended the year with visits to the region.