Celebrating the 15th Anniversary of Independence of the Republic of Kosovo

The Republic of Kosovo recently held a reception to mark a double jubilee: the 15th anniversary of Independence and the 10th anniversary of bilateral relations between Thailand and Kosovo.

The guests were transported back to the ’60s, which were years of intellectual and artistic renaissance in Kosovo, when the educators and artists enriched the social fabric and forged a coherent sense of national unity, which proved crucial in enduring the tough 90s.

At the reception, a thorough exhibition on Kosovo was on display. The ambience, as well as the songs of the era interpreted by Alban Nimani, the frontman of the iconic group Asgjë Sikur Dielli (Nothing Like the Sun) complemented the celebration of the free, peaceful, prosperous Kosovo and its treasured friendship with the Kingdom of Thailand.

The VIP guests list included H. E. Mr. Vijavat Isarabhakdi, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs as the Guest of Honour; Hon. Mr Supachai Somcharoen, Second Vice President of the Senate; Hon. Mr. Kiat Sittheeamorn, Second Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Foreign Affairs; Thai and foreign ambassadors, diplomats, personalities from the business, academia, media and cultural scene of Thailand, and other local and international community members.

As Ms. Ulpiana Lama, Charge d’Affaires and Minister Counsellor shared, “The evening was a mixed feelings of emotions and joy. We appreciate the cooperation of ‘15 strange seconds’ and the Immanuel Orchestra conducted by Varin Artvilai – Ton, a talented musician who grew up in the slums of Bangkok and, since reaching success, has been instrumental in helping many children from Bangkok slums develop their full musical potential.”

Ms. Ulpiana reiterated, “Kosovo is a young country with great potential. A regional leader in Information and Communications Technology and creative industries. Tech gigs, innovators, sportsmen, artists, have made today Kosovo a land of amazing international festivals, and outstanding hospitality.

The bilateral relations were established in 2013, during the reign of his Late Majesty, King Rama IX. We do not take friendships for granted. We remain humble and grateful to the Thai Royal Family, the Government and the people of Thailand.

The friendship between our two countries was also confirmed during the visit of the President, Her Excellency Vjosa Osmani Sadriu to Thailand in June 2022.

Long live the friendship between Kosovo and Thailand!”

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Kathleen Pokrud
Kathleen Pokrud was born in Hong Kong. After graduating with the Master Degree in the U.K., she worked for Hong Kong Trade Development Council, before moving to Thailand in 1991. She has over 20 years experience in project management. For the past decade, she volunteered in education and women empowerment programs. She is Past President of the International Women’s Club of Thailand and Hong Kong Ladies’ Group. She chartered the new Rotary Club of Wang Mai as Charter President in 2020. Director & ex-Vice Chairperson of Baat Woh Cantonese Opera Association of Thailand and a life member of YWCA Bangkok. In the business community, she serves on the Board of Directors with the Thai-Hong Kong Trade Association. Kathy is on the Thailand Tatler Magazine Expat Society The 200 List. She is the Honorary Columnist and contributing writer to a few leading English magazines. She and her husband, RADM Dr Boonyarit Pokrud have one son who is currently based in Boston, USA.
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