Prishtina, 15 February 2013 – Besim Beqaj, Minister of Economic Development, attended today in the launching event of the new postal stamp dedicated to the fifth anniversary of Kosovo’s declaration of independence. The new postal stamp, which depicts the name of Kosovo and number 5, which symbolizes the years of Kosovo’s statehood, was deemed an event of special significance.

“Bearing in mind the importance of this fifth anniversary, and at the proposal of the Government Committee for the celebration of this date, I have authorized Kosovo Post to emit this extraordinary postal stamp with a jubilee theme – ‘5th Anniversary of Independence’” said Minister Beqaj.

He further said that five years ago, members of the Assembly of Republic of Kosovo, representing its people, decided to declare Kosovo an independent and sovereign state, thus enshrining the political will of many generations of Kosovo Albanians for the creation of an independent state.

Minister Beqaj used the occasion to mention Kosovo’s achievements, especially in the sphere of economy.

“Kosovo was recognized as a state by around 100 countries; it is a member of international monetary institutions, such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund and recently the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development,” said Minister Beqaj.

On the other hand, Sejdi Hoxha, Chief Executive Officer of PTK, said that this postal stamp is a symbol of a glorious past characterized by numerous sacrifices. “This postal stamp is dedicated to 17 February, a historical date not only for the Republic of Kosovo but rather for all Albanians, and day that entices strong feelings in each and every one of us,” said Hoxha.

For his part, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kosovo Post, Halit Isufi, said that his organization has strived to contribute to Kosovo’s development, through such projects and other endeavors.