The announcement of February 17th as an official date in several states in the USA, Martin Vulaj talks about the importance
Express newspaper
19/02/2026 11:52
The Independence Day of the Republic of Kosovo is now recognized as an official date in the US capital and in several different American states.
Washington DC Mayor Maurie Bowser was the first to make such a decision, recognizing February 17 as the official date. Her decision was then followed by the states of Arizona, Massachusetts, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, and New Hampshire.
This decision was made because of the strong bond between the two peoples and the contribution that Kosovo Albanians have made over the years in the United States of America.
For Albanian activist in the US, Martin Vulaj, the announcement of February 17 as an official date by these US states is a promotion of the strong relationship between the two countries.
Vulaj says that even though states do not define American diplomacy, through these actions they show the great support that exists for the independence and sovereignty of Kosovo.
“The recognition of February 17 as Kosovo Independence Day by several US states is a symbolic affirmation of the strong relationship between the United States and Kosovo. Although the states do not determine foreign policy, these proclamations reflect broad American support for Kosovo’s independence, democratic development, and sovereignty,” Vulaj told Express.
He said that this recognition of February 17 as an official date honors the Albanian-American community and the work done over the years to strengthen ties between the two countries.
“These recognitions also honor the Albanian-American community, whose advocacy and contributions have been essential in strengthening ties between the two countries. For many, these proclamations represent both recognition of Kosovo’s historic achievement and the important role that Albanian-Americans play in the civic life of the United States,” Vulaj said./GazetaExpress/