TIRANA, Feb.29 – Albania’s highest political leaders have greeted the election of Hashim Thaà§i as the new president of Kosovo.
President Bujar Nishani congratulated Thaà§i on his election as Kosovo’s new head of state.
“I wish you success in your new duty and I hope you will successfully tackle all the challenges that Kosovo and its society are facing right now. I am certain that your experience regarding Kosovo’s independence and progress will lead to higher achievements both internally and on the international stage,” the President’s message read.
Prime Minister Edi Rama also hailed Thaà§i’s election.
“Congratulations Mr. President. I am convinced you will be up to the task and I hope that your first success will be the overcoming of the political crisis,” Rama wrote on his Facebook profile.
Opposition Democratic Party leader Lulzim Basha also congratulated Thaà§i on his election as Kosovo president, urging him to continue contributing to the Euro- Atlantic integration.
“Your election as the fourth president of the Republic of Kosovo is the successful coronation of your story and political contribution to the freedom, independence and progress of our dear Kosovo,” said Basha.
Meanwhile, Speaker of Parliament Ilir Meta had a phone conversation with Thaà§i, wishing him success on his new duty as president.
Hashim Thaà§i was elected Kosovo’s president with 71 votes in the third round, after failing to receive the required two-thirds of the vote in the previous two rounds. His election was marred by opposition protests both inside and outside Parliament.
Thaà§i, a former Prime Minister who up to his election held the post of foreign minister, will replace Atifete Jahjaga as Kosovo’s new head of state.
Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia in 2008 and has been recognized by 112 countries worldwide.
