Mitrovica, 20 February 2026 – The Deputy Minister of Economy, Getoar Mjeku, took part in the opening ceremony of Miners’ Week at the Stantërg mine, commemorating the February 1989 strike held in defense of Kosovo’s right to self-governance.

In his speech, Mr. Mjeku stated that the event of 37 years ago signaled the beginning of the long journey toward Kosovo’s freedom and independence

He spoke about the Government’s plans to develop the mining sector, linking it to economic development and national security, and placing the Trepça enterprise at the center of the sector.

Deputy Minister Mjeku explained that Trepça will be developed in partnership with a reputable company from a friendly country, while the state will invest €50 million to scan national resources and put them to use for development.

The ceremony was attended by the enterprise’s management, workers’ unions and public figures.

The Trepça miners’ strike took place from 20 to 28 February 1989, when around 1300 miners undertook a hunger strike in protest against the repressive measures imposed by the regime of the criminal Slobodan Milosevic. The strike evolved into a powerful symbol of civic resistance and unity, galvanizing widespread public support and leaving an indelible imprint on Kosovo’s history.