The Kosovo NOC was officially recognized in 2014, at the start of the mandate of IOC President Thomas Bach, who declared, during the special gala organized for the occasion, that it was “a very moving moment” for him to be present for this important step. Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu, President of the Republic of Kosovo, and Albin Kurti, Prime Minister of the country, as well as athletes from Kosovo and representatives of NOCs from around the world were also present.
Just before the gala dinner, President Thomas Bach met with three Kosovans, all Olympic medalists in judo, including Majlinda Kelmendi who won gold – Kosovo’s first Olympic medal – at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
In her speech, the President of Kosovo welcomed this “decisive moment” for her country and its athletes.
“This milestone punctuates not only a decade of sporting achievements, but also Kosovo’s resilience and determination to achieve its goals. Ten years have passed, this dream has come true. Ten years ago, it was not just a recognition, but a strong message to the whole world,” she said. “Majlinda Kelmendi is our champion of hearts,” she added.
Prime Minister Albin Kurti, for his part, said: “In this decade, Kosovo has accomplished what once seemed impossible. From international recognition, to participation and representation, to winning an Olympic gold medal. Mr Thomas Bach, your unwavering support has been decisive. It gave our athletes the opportunity to represent our country with pride and dignity. Thank you very much.” And added: “Vielen Dank.”
Finally, Ismet Krasniqi, President of the NOC, spoke in these terms: “Thomas Bach and the IOC have lit a glimmer of hope and opened a window of opportunity for all Kosovars, by allowing our dreams to be expressed. secrets, by giving a name to our movement and by offering us the chance to be part of a global family, the Olympic Movement which welcomed us without the slightest hesitation, because it believed in us.
When our hero, Majlinda Kelmendi, won the gold medal at the Rio 2016 Games, she raised not only the flag of Kosovo, but also the hopes and dreams of an entire nation. And you, President Bach, were there, not only as a leader, but also as a sincere friend and strong believer in the unifying and inspiring power of sport. Your remarkable leadership and unwavering support will forever hold a special place in our hearts.”
“During these ten years, the path has not always been easy. We faced challenges and moments of doubt, but our faith and courage were unwavering. Although a small country, Kosovo has demonstrated immense potential, unwavering determination and unlimited dreams,” he added.
