"The US pledges to be the closest friend and partner"/ US Embassy commemorates recognition of Kosovo's independence

The US Embassy in Kosovo has recalled the establishment of diplomatic relations between the states, going back in time to February 18, 2008, with the recognition of independence.

Reiterating the statement of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who at the time pledged that the US would continue to be Kosovo's closest friend and partner, the embassy affirmed that the bond between the two peoples is special.

"Today, 18 years ago, the United States officially recognized Kosovo as a sovereign and independent state. President Bush responded positively to Kosovo's request to establish diplomatic relations between our two countries.

The establishment of these relations will reaffirm the special bonds of friendship that have bound the peoples of the United States and Kosovo.

"...As Kosovo today begins its life as an independent state, the United States pledges to continue to be its close friend and partner," Secretary Rice declared, the embassy's post reads.