RIYADH: Kosovan President Vjosa Osmani has sent her congratulations to the Syrian people as Syria celebrated Liberation Day marking a year since the overthrow of Bashar Assad.

“Happy Liberation Day to all the people of Syria. It is with profound honor that I address you today on behalf of the people and the institutions of the Republic of Kosovo, as you mark this historic first anniversary of your liberation,” the Kosovan leader said in a video posted on her social media account.

“This is a day that symbolizes not only freedom regained, but also the rebirth of a people’s hope.”

“Both our countries, Kosovo and Syria, have known the darkest chapters of oppression, injustice, and unimaginable suffering. But we have also known what it means to rise, to transform pain into purpose and strength. We have stood firm in our belief that no force can extinguish a people’s yearning for freedom,” Osmani added.

Syria formally recognized Kosovo as an independent and sovereign state in October during a trilateral meeting in Riyadh hosted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman with Syrian president Ahmed Al-Sharaa and Kosovo’s Osmani.

Osmani described Syria’s recognition of Kosovo as a “historic event,” and expressed her appreciation to the crown prince for facilitating the meeting between the two nations.

“We have learned that justice, though delayed, always finds a voice. For the people of Kosovo, freedom was earned through so much sacrifice and courage. And we know that the same spirit defines the people of Syria, who have endured so much, yet never surrendered their faith in a better tomorrow,” Osmani said in her video greeting to the Syrian people.

“Dear friends in Syria, please know that Kosovo stands with you. We will be your partner, your friend, and your ally every step of the way. From Pristina to Damascus, our hearts beat as one for freedom, for dignity, and for the enduring friendship between our two countries. Happy Liberation Day.”