Diplomatic Desk:
The Embassy of the Republic of Kosovo in Dhaka organized a reception on the occasion of the 18th Independence Day on Sunday (April 19, 2026). The event created a colorful atmosphere with the presence of high-ranking government officials, diplomats, businessmen, academicians, journalists, civil society representatives and friends of Kosovo.
Minister of Information and Broadcasting Zahir Uddin Swapan was present as the chief guest at the event. The reception was organized by Kosovo Ambassador to Bangladesh Luljim Plana.
In his speech at the event, Ambassador Pallana highlighted the significant progress made by Kosovo since independence. He said that in the last two decades, Kosovo has achieved significant successes in building democratic institutions, economic growth, increasing foreign investment, developing digital governance and strengthening international partnerships.
He congratulated Bangladesh for the recent political changes and said that the national elections held in February 2026 are a testament to the country’s democratic maturity. Expressing Kosovo’s best wishes to the newly elected government and all political parties, he expressed his determination to further deepen the relations between the two countries.
In his lengthy speech, the Ambassador highlighted the history of Kosovo’s independence, its efforts to integrate with the European Union, and Kosovo’s position in establishing global peace. At the same time, he expressed gratitude to Bangladesh for recognizing Kosovo’s independence in 2017.
Highlighting various aspects of the relations between Bangladesh and Kosovo, he said that several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) have already been signed between the two countries, including bilateral consultations, diplomatic training, and visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders. In addition, academic exchanges have been strengthened through the signing of four MoUs in the education sector.
The Kosovo Diplomatic Academy has been training young Bangladeshi diplomats since 2020. The Kosovo Scholarship Program launched in 2024 has created new opportunities for Bangladeshi students.
Noting that there are examples of cooperation in the field of humanitarian assistance, he said that Kosovo has provided assistance to Bangladesh in the Rohingya crisis and a joint initiative has been taken with a local NGO to provide educational materials to children in Cox’s Bazar.
Also emphasizing cultural exchange, he said that “Kosovo Film Days” and various film screenings have already been organized to deepen cultural relations between the two countries. At the event, students of the Music Department of Dhaka University performed Kosovo songs, which were praised as a symbol of cultural bonds.
On the other hand, in his speech as the chief guest, Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan said that both Bangladesh and Kosovo share a common experience of struggle, sacrifice and achieving sovereignty. This historical similarity has created a solid foundation for friendship and mutual understanding between the two countries.
He said that there is huge potential for further expansion of trade, investment, education, technology, culture and people-to-people contacts between the two countries. He reiterated the commitment of the new government of Bangladesh to further strengthen relations with Kosovo.
In his speech, the Minister praised the history of Kosovo’s independence and said that Kosovo’s declaration of independence on February 17, 2008 was the successful outcome of a long struggle of a nation. He praised Kosovo’s development over the past 18 years, strengthening of democratic institutions and involvement in the international arena.
Highlighting the importance of mutual cooperation in addressing global challenges, he said that in the current world, it is necessary to work together on issues such as food and energy security, climate change and sustainable development.
In conclusion, he said, “May the friendship between Bangladesh and Kosovo be further strengthened and the relations between the people of the two countries deepen.”
At the end of the event, the Kosovo Embassy expressed its sincere gratitude to the Bangladesh government, people, diplomatic community and all the guests present.
