I made this blog to let you know what's going on with me in Albania!

Monday, February 18, 2008

Kosovo Independence Day

An important event in history occured on February 17th, Kosovo announced its independence from Serbia.

"The proclamation sent thousands of jubilant ethnic Albanians into the streets overnight, where they waved red-and-black Albanian flags, fired guns and fireworks into the air and danced. One couple named their newborn daughter Pavarsie — Albanian for "independence."

People stopped to scribble names and messages on a sculpture spelling out "NEWBORN" in giant iron letters across from the U.N. headquarters in central Pristina.

And the republic's new flag — a blue field featuring a yellow silhouette of Kosovo and six white stars, one for each of the main ethnic groups — fluttered from homes and offices.

'This is the happiest day in my life,' said Mehdi Shehu, 68. 'Now we're free and we can celebrate without fear.' " (William J. Kole and Nebi Qena, Associated Press Writers).

Kosovo is made up of 90% ethnic Albanians, so celebrations were also happening in the streets of Albania. In the center of Tirana, there were street concerts, fireworks, and dancing - celebrating the victory! I went down to see what was happening and snapped a few pictures. Hope you enjoy!

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