Kosovo Embassy Hosts 18th Anniversary of Independence of the Republic of Kosovo in Dhaka

Photo: CNI

Diplomatic Correspondent: The Embassy of Kosovo in Bangladesh hosted a grand reception to celebrate the 18th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Kosovo on Sunday, 19 April 2026, in Dhaka.

The event was attended by chief guest Zahir Uddin Swapon, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, political leaders, representatives of cultural organizations, think tanks, business leaders, academics, and distinguished guests from different sectors.
The reception was hosted by H.E. Lulzim Pllana, Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo to Bangladesh.

In his address, Ambassador Pllana said it was a profound pleasure for him and the embassy staff to welcome guests on the historic occasion of Kosovo’s 18th Independence Anniversary. He recalled that Kosovo declared independence eighteen years ago, marking the birth of the youngest democracy in Europe.
He said that in less than two decades, Kosovo has achieved notable milestones in strengthening democratic institutions, rule of law, protection of human rights, economic growth, foreign investment, digital governance reforms, and international partnerships.

The Ambassador expressed sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Bangladesh for recognizing Kosovo’s independence in 2017 and for their continued friendship and support.
Highlighting the shared historical experiences of both nations, he said Kosovo and Bangladesh understand the value of sacrifice, resilience, and self-determination. He added that both countries are united by common values of peace, justice, and national dignity.
Ambassador Pllana reaffirmed Kosovo’s commitment to European Union values and regional stability, while continuing efforts toward deeper integration with European institutions. He also congratulated Bangladesh on its recent peaceful national elections, describing them as a reflection of democratic maturity and progress.

He further noted that relations between Kosovo and Bangladesh have grown steadily through diplomatic consultations, educational cooperation, visa facilitation for diplomatic and official passport holders, and expanding economic engagement.

The Ambassador mentioned that since 2020, the Kosovo Diplomatic Academy has been providing training opportunities for junior Bangladeshi diplomats. He also highlighted the Kosovo Scholarship Program, launched in 2024, offering educational opportunities for Bangladeshi students.
 
He said several Memorandums of Understanding have already been signed between academic institutions of the two countries to promote student exchanges, faculty cooperation, and research collaboration.

Addressing the gathering, chief guest Zahir Uddin Swapon congratulated the people of Kosovo on their National Day and conveyed warm greetings from the Government and people of Bangladesh. He said Bangladesh highly values friendship, sovereignty, peaceful coexistence, and constructive international cooperation.

Minister Swapon said Bangladesh remains committed to strengthening bilateral relations with Kosovo in trade, education, culture, tourism, media cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges. He praised the Kosovo Embassy in Dhaka for its active diplomatic role in deepening mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Pllana said both Kosovo and Bangladesh have youthful and energetic populations full of talent and promise. He expressed hope for building stronger educational and cultural bridges through scholarships, academic exchanges, and joint cultural programs.

As part of the celebration, students from the Music Department of University of Dhaka performed Kosovo songs, symbolizing the growing cultural connection between the two nations.

The formal reception was followed by a vibrant cultural program and dinner, where guests enjoyed warm exchanges in a festive atmosphere.

The evening reflected the strengthening friendship between Kosovo and Bangladesh and their shared commitment to peace, cooperation, and mutual prosperity.