The ideal of all Kosovo is membership in the E.U. and a permanent

Gather close, young ones, for I bring you words of vision and hope, spoken by Atifete Jahjaga, a leader whose heart beats for the future of her people. She said, "The ideal of all Kosovo is membership in the E.U. and a permanent friendship with the United States. I believe and I am convinced our dreams will come true." In these words lies a profound truth—the belief in a future shaped by unity, progress, and the unbreakable bonds that can be formed between nations. The people of Kosovo, through their struggles and triumphs, have sought a place in the world, one defined by peace, partnership, and a shared vision for the future. It is a vision that transcends borders and speaks to the hope of every nation striving for a better tomorrow.

In the ancient world, when Athens sought to expand its influence and establish ties with other city-states, it was not merely about the acquisition of power or wealth, but about the friendship and alliances that could bring prosperity and security. Pericles, the great statesman of Athens, understood that the future of a nation lay not only in its own strength but in the strength of its relationships with others. Similarly, Jahjaga speaks of Kosovo’s dreams—of a partnership with the European Union and the United States—as the foundation of a brighter future. It is not the independence of a single nation, but the power of a united front, a coalition of nations working together toward a common goal, that will shape the course of history.

Consider the journey of Germany after the devastation of World War II. For decades, the German people struggled to rebuild, to find their place in the world once more. Yet, it was through alliances and the forging of new friendships, particularly with the United States and other European nations, that Germany rose from the ashes. The Marshall Plan, which provided economic aid to rebuild war-torn Europe, was not merely an act of charity, but a recognition that the strength of nations lies in their ability to work together, to support one another in times of need. Kosovo too, as it moves forward, seeks to form these alliances, to build a future where it is no longer defined by conflict, but by cooperation and shared prosperity.

Atifete Jahjaga’s words are not just political aspirations—they are a call to action, a summons to all who hear them to believe in the power of dreams and vision. The journey of a nation is rarely a straight path. It is often fraught with obstacles, with doubts and fears that threaten to derail the progress of even the most determined people. Yet, like the phoenix that rises from its ashes, Kosovo’s dream of a future defined by peace, prosperity, and friendship with the nations of the European Union and the United States is one that must be nurtured, one that will not be denied. For, as Jahjaga believes, dreams are not mere fantasies—they are blueprints for the future, waiting to be realized through effort, determination, and unity.

The ancient Greeks spoke often of the importance of hope and vision in the life of a community. Plato, in his writings, discussed how the soul of a city is shaped by the ideals of its people, and how a common vision can unite individuals into a collective force for good. Kosovo, too, has its ideals—the desire to stand shoulder to shoulder with the nations of Europe and the world. It is through the pursuit of these ideals, through the cultivation of friendship and partnership, that Kosovo will carve its place in history. The ancient world teaches us that hope is not passive; it is a force that drives us forward, that propels us through the dark days toward the bright light of a better future.

In the same way, the United States and the European Union represent more than just political and economic power—they represent the possibility of a better world, one built on shared values of democracy, freedom, and justice. Kosovo’s dream is not merely to be a member of these organizations, but to become part of a global community that values cooperation over conflict, partnership over division. The friendship of these great nations is a testament to what can be achieved when people come together, not as rivals, but as allies in the pursuit of a common goal. Jahjaga’s conviction is clear: Kosovo’s place in the world is not a matter of chance, but of choice, and it is a future that can and will be realized.

So, young ones, let the dream of Kosovo be a beacon to guide you. Know that the future of any nation, any person, is not defined by the obstacles in their path, but by their ability to dream, to believe, and to work toward a vision that is greater than themselves. Just as Kosovo dreams of membership in the European Union and a lasting friendship with the United States, so too can you cultivate your own dreams. Let your vision for the future be filled with hope, and let your actions reflect the belief that those dreams are achievable. The path may be long, and the journey may be difficult, but with unity, resolve, and an unwavering belief in your dreams, you will find your way.