NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, ’sKosovo’s Youth and of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. Culture,Culture, YouthYouth andand SportSport

Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

Subsidy of over 800 thousand Euros on cultural projects 7

The 13th session of the European Cultural Parliament will be held MCYS allocated 50 thousand Euros for Kosovo Olympic Committee in Prishtina 18 rishtina shall be the hostess of around 120 people of art from all over , which in October are coming to the capital city Pof Kosovo to participate in the 13th session of the European Cultural Parliament. Therefore, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and and the European Cultural Parliament signed a Memoran- dum of Understanding. Prior to signing the Memorandum, Minister Memli Krasniqi had a meeting with the General Secretary of ECP, Karl – Erik Norman. More on page 4

Kosovo Youth Development Proj- ect, evidence of a new concept of thought and action for the youth 22 Minister Krasniqi met the President of International Olympic Committee, Tomas Bach Page 5 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

2 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

KOSOVO NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM

No. 14. Year III. 3 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

The 13th session of the European Cultural Parliament

in these years indeed we have achieved to promote our country and culture” Whereas, General Secretary of ECP, Karl – Erik Norman, thanked him for the invitation to visit Pr- ishtina and expressed his pleasure that the 13th session of ECP shall take place in our country. He stated that this was the initiation of Minis- ter Krasniqi to organize this import- ant cultural event in Prishtina. “We are very happy to organize the meeting of the European Cul- tural Parliament in Prishtina that shall take place at the beginning of October. We were very pleased when the Minister Memli Krasniqi contacted us, and it is of great Continued from Front Page nization which serves a lot to the importance that we are meeting in culture, especially, the culture of a symbolic city such as Prishtina” In a press conference, after the the countries like us, as we need said Mr. Norman. meeting and signing the Memoran- experiences. In Kosovo around He said that 13 years ago dum, Minister Krasniqi expressed 120 people of art shall come from when the Cultural Parliament was his estimation for the organiza- all over Europe and this event is an founded, the idea was to contrib- tion of the 13th session of ECP in indication that Prishtina is becom- ute with culture to the idea of Eu- Prishtina, as a very important event ing a center of culture in Balkan”, for the , its promo- said the Minister, as he thanked barriers between members of the tion and exchange of experiences. the British Council in Kosovo for . “We have mem- “Three years ago we started a its support in the organization of bers from 43 states and may say very fruitful cooperation with the this session. that we are the most Pan-Europe- European Cultural Parliament. The Minister added that Kosovo an institution” he said. I have had the privilege to take in these three years was a part of Members of ECP from Kosovo part in the last editions of ECP, in the biggest cultural events in Eu- nominated by Minister Krasniqi are Edinburgh and Berlin. I have had rope and World and this approach Eliza Hoxha and Veton Nurkollari. the pleasure to present the cultur- shall proceed. Earlier in this mechanism joined al developments and challenges “Cultural diplomacy shall also Erzen Shkololli, Director of the of Kosovo. ECP is an great orga- continue to be in our focus, since Kosovo National Gallery. 

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Minister Krasniqi met the President of International Olympic Committee, Tomas Bach inister of Culture, Youth in every competition. This right continuous communication and and Sports, Memli Kras- is warranted also by the Olympic coordination until Kosovo applies Mniqi, met the President of principles. We have waited with for acceptance in IOC. International Olympic Committee, patience up to now and have had a Whereas, in the meeting with Tomas Bach, in Turkey, within the compatibility to make the applica- President of SportAccord and In- frame of SportAccord Convention. tion process for acceptance in the ternational Federation, Mari- In this meeting, the Minister was International Olympic Committee us Vizer, it was discussed about the accompanied by Head of Kosovo in a coordinated way. We believe possibilities of cooperation also Olympic Committee Besim Hasani, that this moment has come now in the future advancement of the whereas, Mr. Bach was accompa- that Kosovo, our athletes become . Minister Krasniqi nied by Pere Miro, director of Na- part of the Olympic family” Minis- congratulated Mr. Vizer for his tional Olympic Committees in the ter Krasniqi stated. work as President of SportAccord International Olympic Committee. In his turn, President of IOC, Minister Krasniqi and Head Tomas Bach, congratulated Minis- Mr. Vizer on the developments of Hasani also met President of Sport- ter Krasniqi and Head Hasani for sport in Kosovo in general, and Accord and meanwhile President positive developments in the sport commitment that is done by all of International Judo Federation, of Kosovo and for the investments sports community along with state Marius Vizer, as well as director of that are done for its advancement. institutions. Expressing his grati- Football International Federation He stated that Olympic principles tude to Mr. Vizer for the immense Association (FIFA), Walter Gagg. apply for the whole world, and support he has provided to the In the meeting with Tomas shall apply also for Kosovo. sport of Kosovo, Minister Krasniqi Bach, Minister Krasniqi talked The parties agreed to have about general sport develop- ments in Kosovo, achievements and challenges in this regards. He mentioned that there was an im- mense progress in the recent years and highlighted the commitment of the to assist the advancement of sports, always guided by Olympic Chart principles. The Minister congratu- lated Mr. Bach for his duty and for the important developments that happened up to now under his management. “The Republic of Kosovo de- serves to be part of sports inter- national mechanisms and be equal No. 14. Year III. 5 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

and membership of KFF in FIFA. Appreciating the support FIFA has given to Kosovo, the Minster President to be award- ed a Presidential Medal of Merit. Walter Gagg highly estimated the decision of the Government of Kosovo for the construction of a new stadium. He estimated the organization of the match Koso- vo – Haiti, and the seriousness on organization of the next matches. Mr. Gagg said that FIFA shall pay to the President of the Republic of to support KFF just like it did at special attention to Kosovo, its Kosovo, to award him the Presiden- friendly matches and the interna- tial Medal of Merit. organization of these matches as tionalization process in football. In his turn, Marius Vizer thanked possible. Within commitments of Minister Krasniqi and Head of the Minister for the proposal given the Govern- for the decoration, and estimated ment, Min- the work done by Minister Krasniqi ister Memli and Kosovo sports community for Krasniqi the development of sport and its international advancement. Gagg on its He promised for continuous decision to support on the internationaliza- build a Na- tion and development of sports tional Stadi- in Kosovo. Mr. Vizer said that the um of Kosovo success of Kosovo in judo is a good in Prishtina, proof that the athletes from Kosovo with a capac- deserve to be equal part of every ity from 25 international competition. In this to 30 thou- regards, he promised continuous sand seats. engagement and cooperation. Furthermore, In the meeting with Director of FIFA, Walter Gagg, it was discussed also for other for the developments of football in investments Kosovo. Minister Krasniqi thanked that the Mr. Gagg for his presence at the Government - ly match shall make in KOC, Hasani have also organized of Kosovo, the renova- meetings with other international which took tion of the Olympic and non-Olympic federa- part on the stadium in tions, in order to accept federations Prishtina. of Kosovo. In this occasion, special versus Haiti. The attention was paid to the sport of It was also Minister gymnastics, athletics and . discussed said that This is the 12th session of the about the Kosovo shall biggest sports convention, Sport- next coming coordinate Accord. Within the SportAccord matches that constantly are gathered the most important the Repre- with FIFA for Olympic and non-Olympic federa- sentative internation- tions of the world. In this session of Kosovo al friendly of convention that is held in Tur- shall organize matches, but key, around 1500 representatives with Turkey also in other have participated from Interna- and . The processes which tional Olympic Committee, federa- Minister said that relate with the tions, sports associations, donators the Government is ready development of football  6 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

Subsidy of over 800 thousand Euros on cultural projects his year, the Ministry of Whereas, more than 64 thou- falls within the support that they Culture, Youth and Sports sand Euros were allocated for are going to receive again through Tallocated an amount of more different projects interrelated with the competition on book purchase, than 800 thousand Euros for cul- the cultural promotion. Some of announced weeks ago. tural projects from annual compe- them, support of the PEN Centre on MCYS has allocated 80 thou- tition. In comparison with the last annual activities with an amount sand Euros from the competition year, the support was increased for of 10 thousand Euros, traditional for the promotion of cultural diver- about 200 thousand Euros. games ‘Álbaniada’ with 10 thou- sity, respectively, for the support of In this competition, more than sand Euros, etc. the cultural projects of all minority 500 projects have applied in all More than 70 thousand Euros communities living in Kosovo. Last categories, whereby around 300 of were allocated in the category year, around 50 thousand Euros 3 of literary projects. Whereby, 10 were allocated for this. This has resulted in the increase thousand Euros were allocated as 160 thousand Euros were of support on traditional cultur- budget on annual activity Kosovo allocated in the category of musi- al events in Kosovo, which have Writers’ League, whereas, 15 thou- cal arts. MCYS has supported the sand Euros were allocated to the Kosovo Composers’ Association international image. Kosovo Publishers’ Association on for their annual activity with 7 Hence, the total amount of sub- annual activity in which the Book thousand Euros, whereas, tradi- sidy for different projects related Fair in Prishtina falls, the Fair in tional festivals were supported this Frankfurt and that in Tirana. year, too. Thus, ‘ReMusica’ festival around 130 thousand Euros. In accordance with the Law was supported with 9 thousand 20 thousand Euros were allo- on Libraries, MCYS has allocated Euros, ‘Kosova Kamer Fest’ was cated for the Documentary Film means for the enrichment of book supported with 9 thousand Euros, Festival ‘DOKU Fest’, as compared funds and also for municipal librar- ‘Chopin PianoFest’ Festival was with 15 thousand Euros that were ies. In this case, 30 thousand Euros supported with 9 thousand Euros, allocated last year. 22 thousand were allocated for the enrichment ‘Kosovarja Këndon’ (Kosovar girl Euros were allocated for the Film of book funds for municipal li- sings) Festival was supported with Festival ‘PriFilm Fest’, as compared braries of Mitrovica, , , 7 thousand Euros, etc. Priority was with 20 thousand Euros that were Kamenica, Kaçanik, , , given also to the support of folk- allocated last year. , Junik, Podujeva, Kaçan- lore music festivals as ‘Hasi Jehon’ 15 thousand Euros were allo- ik, Hanit të Elezit, Obiliq, Vushtrri, (Hasi echoes), ‘Anadrinia Jehon’ cated for the Festival ‘Skena UP’ Lipjan, Fushë Kosova, Suhareka, (Anadrinia echoes), ‘I këndojmë (UP Scene), 10 thousand Euros Istog, Drenas as well as the Library Lirisë’ (We sing to freedom) and were allocated for the ‘ShqipFilm- of the Blind /”Our Eyes”/ (Our ‘Rapsodia Shqiptare’ (Albanian Fest’ and 10 thousand Euros were $"& Rhapsody), which were supported allocated for ‘Nine Eleven’. support for municipal libraries with 4 thousand Euros each.  MCYS has allocated 144 thou- sand Euros for projects related country, 120 thousand Euros for different projects. There is includ- ed also an allocation of a budget of 10 thousand Euros for the seven theatres in the country, as well as for the theatre ODA, whereas, 15 thousand Euros were allocated for the Festival ‘Etno Fest’. "(3 arts were supported with a total amount of 104 thousand Euros, among which tens of personal exhi- bitions, annual program of Centre for Contemporary Art ‘Stacion’ (Sta- tion) were supported with 9 thou- sand Euros, projects of students of the faculty of Arts were supported with 5 thousand Euros, etc. No. 14. Year III. 7 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

Jahja Shehu, laureate of the National he well-known actor Jahja Actress Gresa Pallaska was honour and motivation for the new Shehu is the laureate of the awarded the prize for the best generations for even greater works”, TNational Price for Life Work actress in her role in play “Mbas was stated by Minister Krasniqi. ' zonjushës Julie” (“After Miss Julie”). Meanwhile, the Minister talked given the price, on the World Day Based on the Regulation for about the personality of Jahja She- of Theatre, by Minister of Culture, the distribution of annual prizes hu, estimating him as one who has Youth and Sports, Memli Krasniqi on theatre, the National Price for developed the theatres throughout in a ceremony of event in MCYS, *+)3 Kosovo”. It is an honour for me to in which were also given annual 5 thousand Euros, whereas, other give him this award and undoubt- Prizes on theatre for 2013. categories shall be awarded with 2 edly tell him, Mr. Shehu, that this The best play awarded was the thousand and 500 Euros. award does not mean that you are play “Mbas zonjushës Julie” (“After Minister Krasniqi stated that he getting retired but rather a grati- Miss Julie”) directed by Kushtrim feels honoured for having had the tude for those emotions you have Koliqi and the Kosovo National opportunity to work in the reali- bestowed us for years and tell you Theatre Production. sation of these awards and their that we still need your experience” “Sikur kjo të ishte shfaqje” (“As if distributions. he stated in addition. this were a play”) is awarded with “Kosovo has many names, Furthermore, the Minister high- the prize for successful international personalities who have built and lighted that he has signed the new presentation. This play is a produc- developed the theatre, and also has Statute of KNT, and informed that tion of theatre company ‘La Rremë’ in a new generation that is coming and in the following days, the Regula- cooperation with the Theatre ODA. glowing not only in Kosovo but also tion on resident ensembles shall be Kushtrim Koliqi was awarded in world stages. These awards are signed, which shall open the way to the prize for the best direction of an honour made to these famous the advertisement of a competition play “Mbas zonjushës Julie” (“After personalities of cultural scene by for completing the resident ensem- Miss Julie”) the society and the state and an ble of the National Theatre.

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Director Kushtrim Koliqi stated that the time has come for the artists to be more united and raise their voice. “I want to use this opportunity – the International Day of Theatre to call the artistic committee to raise our voice, and be stronger thus not become beggars in the aspect of thanking, because we do not need to thank anyone, because we are the ones who entertain people, the ones who make ideas and the ones who educate the mass”, stated Koliqi. In her turn, Rebeka Qena was awarded with the prize “For the best success in the international scene”, she expressed her high Moreover, Minister Krasniqi said that he felt very happy for two emotion for the appraisal. “I want to really state that we following days, the Regulation on celebrated one more time the In- have started with an idea to present procedures and criteria for estab- ternational Day of Theatre, and the something, say something and what lishing theatres shall be signed. He second, for appraising the work of we said was liked very much, ini- stated that this shall open the way actor by this award. tially by the public which gave us an for the Theatre of Gjakova to take Mr. Shehu thanked the Min- 3c< the status of a national theatre. ister that the prize is awarded Head of the jury, Burbuqe Minister Krasniqi added that in every year. “It is not important Berisha, emphasised that it was recent years, there was a high com- how much the award is, it is not not easy to select winners, as there mitment to increase the support for important the value of the award. were many nominations. Actor artists and cultural institutions. He I could not sleep in peace for three Jahja Shehu has been nominated by mentioned the budget increase in nights thinking that in our Kosovo, almost all the theatres. each year for both the institutions there are still people who know to Other members of the jury and independent cultural operators. appraise, value the very hard work which gave these awards were: Laureate of National Award for Basri Lushtaku, Arben Zharku, Or- Life Work, Jahja Shehu expressed actor”, expressed Mr. Shehu. han Kerkezi and Liridon Cahani. 

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Kosovo deserves membership in the World Intellectual Property Organisation osovo meets the criteria in Kosovo. He mentioned that a purposes, the cases must be re- for membership in World considerable progress has been ported accordingly. And to respond KIntellectual Property Organi- marked, but he also mentioned to such requirements in time, the sation and this should happen, as it that there are still challenges responsible institutions of the does not represent only a right, but ahead of us. country dealing with intellectual a necessity too for advancement of “It is encouraging the fact that property must continue their work protecting the intellectual property many creators and authors have towards creating a functional sys- in our country. used the legislation and have re- tem of intellectual property rights”, This is what the Minister of ported to the competent bodies and he said. Culture, Youth and Sports, Memli have initiated legal proceedings to Minister thanked all local and Krasniqi said in the conference protect their works. Although, we international partners who have titled “the System of Intellectual do not want misuses to happen re- helped and are helping this segment. Property in Kosovo – achievements garding the rights of the author and On the other hand, the Minister and challenges”, organised by the intellectual property, it is important Bernard Nikaj, stressed that Koso- Agency for Industrial Property, that in events when such cases vo has marked a huge progress in >?@ occur, the authors themselves, protection of intellectual property. Rights within MCYS and the Project creators, inventors and respective “One of the challenges we are $[b] organisations undertake the legal facing as a country is to ensure a System of Intellectual Property in actions so that the abusers are con- business environment which is Kosovo”. In this conference, the victed in accordance with the law”, suitable for local entrepreneurs Minister of Trade and Industry, Minister Krasniqi said while he also and creators, but also for attraction Bernard Nikaj, representatives added that for having a progress in of investments from anywhere from World Intellectual Property )- abroad. When speaking about in- Organisation, police representa- 33 novators, entrepreneurs and local tive, customs, creators and busi- “It is the society the one who businesses, protection if ideas, pro- nessmen participated too. should say stop to such things. If tection of trademarks, protection Minister Krasniqi also spoke we see a movie circulating in pirate of their patents is a key to encour- more broadly about the achieve- form before a premiere has been aging and providing incentive to ments which have been marked shown, if we see that an original our creators and businesses who towards protection of copy rights ) come forward with new products and ideas which add value not only to our economy but also penetrate to other countries of the region and even broader”, Nikaj said. He also added that when we speak about foreign investors, it is critical for us to be able to guarantee these investors that the products and services they provide and produce, develop and trade in Kosovo and broader are protected according to modern and European legislation.  10 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

No. 14. Year III. 11 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

117 instruments donation from solemnly handed over to Kosovo Philharmonics osovo Philharmonics in its MCYS is going to work even more the Government of Japan for the collection of orchestra now in the future towards improvement support provided. Khas 117 musical instruments of work conditions for the Philhar- E Toshiya Abe, representative more. In a ceremony organised monic of Kosovo and congratulated of JICA for Balkans congratulated by the Ministry of Culture, Youth the instrument players for work and for the arrival of new instruments and Sports (MCYS), in the National concerts to be even more successful and considered that this support Theatre of Kosovo, the handover in the future, not forgetting increase for Kosovo Philharmonics is spe- of these instruments took place of artist and experience exchange cial as the cooperation is marking which were donated by the Gov- between the cultural institutions. 5 years now. ernment of Japan, through Japan Whereas the Ambassador of “Orchestra of Philharmonics is International Cooperation Agency Japan in , Makoto Taketoshi well known in Japan as it is led by ?_`)> expressed his pleasure to be pres- Toshio Yanagisawa, and I hope that In the handover ceremony pres- ent in this ceremony of handover of this orchestra continues to play ent were the Minister of Culture, new musical instruments for Koso- sounds which deliver messages of Youth and Sports, Memli Krasniqi, vo Philharmonics. He expressed peace”, Abe said. Ambassador of Japan in Austria, the memories from the earthquake Whereas the director of Koso- Makoto Taketoshi, Minister of of 2011 which hit Japan when vo Philharmonics, Baki Jashari, European Integration, Vlora Çitaku, Japanese people felt hopeless and expressed that the Philharmonics and the resident representative of the international community sym- of Kosovo since its establishment ?_`)>&_ pathised with them. in 2000 has developed from year Minister Memli Krasniqi, in the “We will never forget that to year and after the declaration of capacity of the host expressed that Kosovo Philharmonics as a part of a Independence of the Republic of the two peoples, that of Kosovo people of the other side of the globe Kosovo and recognition by Japan. and that of Japan, although in geo- sympathised with Japanese people Conditions for cooperation in the 3 by holding a memorial concert for 3 happiness circumstances have felt us”, Ambassador Taketoshi said, by countries have been created. together the experiences they have further stressing that Kosovo as a “The new instruments, the gone through, considering that this new country is advancing towards voluminous donation from Japan ceremony also is a good sign of co- development by building good rela- amounting the value of half a operation between the two peoples tionships with the neighbours and million Euro makes Kosovo Phil- and at this point he thanked the thus contributing to advancement harmonics to have better work Government and people of Japan of Western Balkans. conditions”, Jashari said, where he for the support. He promised that Japan is going used the opportunity to thank and “These 117 instruments are to continue to support Kosovo in express consideration for Japan not simply a donation. They are a efforts to build its future. people and state. highly valued asset which bring the Whereas, the minister Vlora In the instruments’ handover new sounds in the culture of Koso- Çitaku expressed her excitement ceremony the Philharmonics per- vo, which day to day is developing for these altruist projects, and formed with some musical parts of and is being promoted in world congratulated Kosovo Philharmon- composers like Edvard Grieg, Baki stages”, minister Krasniqi said. ics for the new instruments. She Jashari and Valton Beqiri.  In addition he promised that also expressed her gratitude for 12 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

Minister Krasniqi proposes Sepp Blatter, Jerome Champagne and Marius Vizer to be awarded the “Presidential Medal of Merit” inister of Culture, Youth and friendly matches and KFF is on its of football in Kosovo. Thanks to Sports, Memli Krasniqi has way for full membership in FIFA. its concrete contribution, KFF has Msent proposals to President We believe that the role of Mr. achieved to advance its agenda for of the Republic of Kosovo, Atifete Blatter shall be crucial also in this the membership in international Jahjaga, whereby Joseph “Sepp” very important process, knowing mechanisms of football, highlight- Blatter, President of International that he supports the fundamental ing in this regard the permission Football Federation Association principle of sport, which consists 8 (FIFA), Jerome Champagne, former of the right of all athletes to have friendly matches, upon approval by _- equal opportunities, including also Football International Federation date for president of FIFA, and also the opportunity for international Association (FIFA). He remains our Marius Vizer, President of Interna- competition, which our football main supporter also in the further tional Judo Federation (IJF), to be players have missed until now”, stages of the internationalization awarded with “Presidential Medal (3- process, up to the membership of of Merit” for their extraordinary cation for Mr. Blatter. KFF with its full rights in FIFA”. contribution to the sport of Kosovo. For Mr. Jerome Champagne, Whereas, for Marius Vizer, Proposal of Minister Krasniqi Minister Krasniqi said that he is President of International Judo is based on Article 4, point 3, the personality who has strongly Federation (IJF), Minister Krasniqi Article 7, point 1.7 of Law No. 3 (3 04/L-070 for the Conferment of football of Kosovo in the interna- to be one the main supporters of Decorations by the President of tional arena, as well as breaking Kosovan judoists. the Republic of Kosovo the international isolation on this _(3 (3 sport, standing beside the Kosovo President of International Judo Blatter, the Minister said that as Football Federation (KFF) and rel- Federation (IJF), Minister Krasniqi a President of FIFA, he has had a evant institutions of our country in said that he was and remains to be proactive approach to the advance- 3 one the main supporters of Koso- ment of the position of Kosovo “Since 2010, he has been the van judoists. Football Federation (KFF) in Special Counselor “Furthermore, despite many relation with FIFA within the frame of KFF in the obstacles, he enabled our judoists of our mutual engagements for the pro- cess of to participate in international internationalization of the football in- terna- competitions, as well as he was the in Kosovo. tion- key person who made possible the “Thanks to the engagement aliza- acceptance of Kosovo Judo federa- and work of Mr. Blatter, today the tion tion in IJF. representative teams and clubs and Thanks to his enormous con- of Kosovo are entitled to play devel- tribution, our judoists have the opment opportunity to present as equal at all levels of inter- national compe- titions, decently representing the Republic of Kosovo. In many of these important competi- tions they won med- als, among which the golden medal by in the World Cham- pion is distinguished, which was held in of in 2013.  No. 14. Year III. 13 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

FIRST INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY FOOTBALL MATCH OF KOSOVO vs. HAITI 14 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

No. 14. Year III. 15 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

Olympic Stadium ‘Adem Jashari’ ready for the

lympic Stadium “Adem renovation of the stadium “Adem vesting in the stadium of Prishtina, Jashari” in Mitrovica is ready Jashari” in accordance with Europe- even with a greater priority. But, as O- an standards. The day after to- the owner of the stadium is the Mu- @- morrow, the match against Haiti is nicipality of Prishtina, then, there is sentative Team of Kosovo, against going to take place and I am looking a need for cooperation and co-in- the Representative Team of Haiti forward to it is going to be a real vestment. We have sent a request that takes place in 5 March. feast” the Prime-minister said. also to the actual Mayor of Prishti- Prime-minister of the Republic He also expressed his grati- na, and we are waiting for a reply of Kosovo, Hashim Thaçi, accompa- tude to Minister Memli Krasniqi in future weeks and, thus, start nied by Minister of Culture, Youth and President of KFF, , together the renovation, with a sim- and Sports (MCYS), Memli Krasniqi who did a great work towards the ilar planning of the stadium “Adem and Head of Kosovo Football Feder- internationalization of the football Jashari”, Minister Krasniqi stated, ation, Fadil Vokrri, welcomed the in Kosovo and emphasized that Mr. as he welcomed the big changes renovations in this stadium. Vokrri is a key image known by the that are taking place in the sports The renovation of this stadium whole international community. infrastructure across Kosovo. was accomplished by the invest- Whereas, he promised that the President of KFF, Fadil Vokrri, ments of MCYS, about 740 thou- support and investments in sports thanked Prime-minister Hashim sand Euros. infrastructure shall continue. Thaqi and Minister Krasniqi for Prime-minister Hashim Thaçi In relation to this, Minister of the support and contribution they estimated the work done in the Culture, Youth and Sports, Memli are providing in aiding ports and complete renovation of the stadi- Krasniqi stated that MCYS is ready ' um in accordance with European to invest also in the stadium of that with this state support the standards. “I am impressed with Prishtina. “Kosovo Government has work is being conducted easier and the workings done in the complete continuously been interested in in- the success shall not be missing. “I believe the whole state is standing on its feet and for us as the Pres- ident of KFF it will be easier to work towards achieving goals” Mr. Vokrri stated. Besides investments in sta- diums, the Government of the Republic of Kosovo has supported KFF also in other aspects, especial- ly, in the organization of the match against Haiti. Hence, the Govern- ment, a few days ago, has allocated 75 thousand Euros.  16 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

23 thousand footballs to be distributed to all primary and secondary schools throughout Kosovo round 23 thousand footballs Furthermore, he stated that bring people close without gender, started to be distributed at today there are much better condi- race, ethnicity distinction, through Aall schools of Kosovo. This tions and that the Government of sport by promoting peace. “Sport is campaign was opened by Kosovo Kosovo shall continue to increase its not only to play or win, but rather, Prime-minister, Hashim Thaçi, in support for the sports. Additionally, it is also a means to get people a ceremony at the primary school the Prime-minister stated that now united”, she stated, adding that be- “Ismail Qemali” in Prishtina. the youth can make their dream sides the distribution of footballs Distribution of these footballs that come true, to play for Kosovo. also trainings and tournaments of is called “One World Football” is “Sport is a means of peace football shall be organised. an activity within the project of and union among the people. The Meanwhile, Enver Hajredini, “Football4Peace”, which in Kosovo Government of the Republic of Head of School Sports Federation, is implemented by the Ministry of Kosovo has invested in stadiums, estimated the work and commit- Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS), ment on this project, supporting in cooperation with the Interna- cities. Soon, we shall start building and promoting school sports. tional Relief and Development and a modern stadium in Prishtina. ') Sport Sans Frontières. We have prioritised the school Krasniqi for his high and consistent Besides Prime-minister Thaçi, sports, since through these you commitment on the development of also Minister of Culture, Youth and can be developed, you can develop sport. Hajredini said that the Feder- Sports, Memli Krasniqi, Ambassa- your talent, and in future, we shall ation he manages shall work even dor of in Kosovo, Maryse have many more eminent athletes”, 3 Daviet, directors of schools, the he stated, while expressing ones competitions throughout Kosovo. goalkeeper of the Kosovo Represen- gratitude and congratulating the Whereas, goalkeeper of the tative, Kushtrim Mushica and the 8]"3( Kosovo Representative in football, Head of the School Sports Federa- (sports without borders) and Kushtrim Mushica, recalled his tion participated in this ceremony. International Relief and Develop- childhood at school, stating that In his statement, Prime-minister ment and the Ministry of Culture, 3(3' Thaçi stated that the supply of all Youth and Sports for this project. that new generations now have schools with these balls is stimula- Minister of Culture, Youth and the necessary conditions and their tion for school sports, as an aspect of Sports, Memli Krasniqi has estimated dreams are coming true. “Sport expansion and promotion of sports. this project as among the most im- stimulates children to build their He recalled moments of his child- portant within the priorities of MCYS sportive and humanitarian charac- hood at school, stating that some in order to advance school sports and ter” said Mushica. time there were hard conditions for spread the sport in general. The project in question, besides the development of sports at schools, Whereas, Estelle Maître, the distribution of these balls, includes directress of Sport Sans Fron- also different trainings on sports pitches and other equipment. tières for Kosovo, considered that across schools, as well as football “As it is for you today, I believe, through this project it is aimed to competitions.  one of our favourite classes was the physical culture. At that time, we did not have very good conditions for this class. + as you do today, and we used to improvise pitches. We all liked football. Almost all the school had just one ball. +3 ) wanted to play at the pitch, and almost everyone was in offensive position. It is not that I had much talent for football, but I remem- ber that marked several goals”, he stated before the school pupils and other participants. No. 14. Year III. 17 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

MCYS allocated 50 thousand Euros for Kosovo Olympic Committee

he Ministry of Culture, Youth signed on behalf of KOC. ]@3- and Sports allocated 50 thou- In the ceremony of signatures, Tsand Euros for the Olympic present were also Minister Kras- through which we could allocate Committee of Kosovo, as an annual niqi as well as the members of the the budget to each federation since budget for the organisation of the Executive Board of KOC. the beginning of the year, based on program for 2014. Therefore, a The Minister said that this >?c- Memorandum of Understanding Memorandum marks a step for- ter Krasniqi stated. was signed between MCYS and KOC. ward prior to the complete func- In his turn, Head of KOC, Besim The decision for allocating tionalization of KOC and is a big Hasani, highlighted that this is these means was made by Minis- proof for the support the state is an extremely good cooperation ter of Culture, Youth and Sports, providing to the sport. between KOC and MCYS and this is Memli Krasniqi, in order to make “We supported KOC even earlier 33 >? in every activity. But through these that Kosovo sport has. and create opportunities for the we are facilitating procedures and “This Memorandum that is being implementation of the annual plan creating a budget basis, thus, mak- signed today for changing the way of KOC, as the highest sports body ing it easier for KOC to enforce its 3- of the country plan. The Memorandum is a step tance, since together with the Exec- General Secretary, Veton Firzi for the enforcement of our vision utive Board we can plan all what we has signed on behalf of MCYS, to allocate an annual budget for consider as priority, and a new pe- whereas, the Head Besim Hasani KOC and other sport federations. riod is beginning for sport”, Hasani stated, expressing ones gratitude to the Minister for his work and support he has given to the sport in general. He said that for the sport of Kosovo, and consequently, also for KOC, e new epoch is opened. Based on this Memorandum, means of 50 thousand Euros shall be spent in some aspects, which are related to administration, organisation of activities within Kosovo and participation in inter- national activities.  18 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

arenas in line with highest international standards

osovo Federation (KKF) is equipped with Keight karate arenas – ‘tata- mi’ mats in line with international standards, which in total reach a surface of 1152 m2, they were pur- chased by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, which allocated 30 thousand Euros for them. - cially delivered these arenas to KKF, in a ceremony at Prishtina Youth Palace. _) 3'_) These arenas dedicated for done up to now, and promised that also for the organization and ) MCYS in future, too, shall be the preparation that have been done appropriate since the Karate World main supporter on their overall for the World Championship, and Championship in Shotokan style is objectives. considered it as an important approaching, which is going to be In his turn, Head of KKF, Fadil event not only for karate but also held in Prishtina from 4-6 April. _63 for our country. Minister Krasniqi estimated the the Minister for his support and Meanwhile, the Minister purchased equipment as a support estimated this day as a special one, said that they are partners of all and creation of the best possible federations and MCYS in these conditions for Karate Federation, the history of karate in Kosovo that )- they are being equipped with are- central priority the general in- ers for their performance and na types of the highest qualities. vestment in sports, increase the training so that they can demon- “MCYS permanently supported direct subsidies for federations, strate their qualities also in the Kosovo Karate Federation, espe- improvement of infrastructure and international arena. cially in the internationalization, necessary equipment for sports “Our country has a long tradi- however, this time, with the pur- development, mentioning that tion in karate, resulting even with chase of these mats, it shall direct- this investment also is within the European World Champions, and ly affect that we as Kosovo development policies of the there is no doubt that there will organize activities as per Ministry and promised be champion men and women criteria of the World that their support shall in future, too”, said the Minister, Karate Federation” said consistently increase in congratulating Head of Karate '_ the future. 

No. 14. Year III. 19 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

Kosovo and Senegal, cooperation in sports and culture inister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Mem- li Krasniqi welcomed in a meeting General MSecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Senegal, Amadou Kebe, with whom he discussed for the possibilities of cooperation between two countries 33 Minister Krasniqi said it witnesses that Kosovo and Senegal, although far away from one another in the Minister Krasniqi met means of geographic distance, can develop coopera- tion now as in the past. ‘This can be witnessed in the the National Football ] Team of Kosovo in a friendly football match. The Government of Koso- inister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Memli vo shall provide its all support for the best possible Kransiqi welcomed the Representative foot- organisation of this match’, stated Minister Krasniqi, Mball players of Kosovo, together with the Pres- while expressing his gratitude to the Government of ident of Kosovo Football Federation, Fadil Vokrri, as Senegal for the readiness they have shown to cooper- well as the technical headquarters, headed by selector ate in this direction. . The Minister also highlighted that in the future He stated that the whole Kosovo people are ex- the cooperation may be realised also in other forms, especially, in culture, organising common events in the as a feast. The Minister highly esteemed the football promotion of artists from both countries. players now as a part of the Representative Team of “Artists are the best ambassadors of a country. Kosovo, everywhere in the world in their demonstra- Kosovo has such an ambassador as Rita Ora and Sen- tion they presented the best image of Kosovo. egal has singer and composer Youssou N'Dour, who the public of Kosovo would be very much pleased to welcome” he stated. In his turn, Secretary Amadou Kebe thanked the Minister for his hosting and readiness for cooperation. ']3- try of to play friendly match with Kosovo. The Minister and Secretary Kebe agreed to have continuous communication so that in future they can make much more concrete steps on cooperation.  The Minister stated that “We are honored and proud to have you and together with you we are mark- ing a historic step for Kosovo as a state, and even more for the sport”. Furthermore, he stated that “You and your many peers who play in many other teams in Europe are the best image of Kosovo and moreover the indicator and undeniable fact about how unfair was the isolation of Kosovo in football”, while he informed the footballers about the investments and support that the state is providing for the sport in general. On the other side, the President of KFF, Fadil Vokrri thanked Minister Krasniqi for the support provided for the internationalization of the football and espe- cially for the improvement of infrastructure. He noti- 3 '~) with MCYS we are working so that the organization of  20 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

MCYS and KOC joint actions for full internationalisation of Kosovo sports inister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Memli Krasniqi met the MPresident of Kosovo Olympic Committee, Besim Hasani, with whom he discussed for the recent achievements in sports and for the steps which should MCYS and the Municipality be agreed to be jointly undertaken in the of Prishtina cooperate in several future for development and internation- alisation of sports. Both agreed that in the projects for sport and culture recent years sport of Kosovo has marked inister of Culture, Youth applicable legislation”, said the historical steps towards internal develop- and Sports, Memli Minister expressing his belief ment and internationalisation. MKrasniqi, welcomed in that very soon the actions shall Minister Krasniqi congratulated Mr. a meeting Mayor of the Mu- be accomplished in order to or- Hasani for the work undertaken by Olympic nicipality of Pristhina, Shpend ganize these projects, through Committee, stressing that the support of the Ahmeti. They discussed for the signing the Memorandum of Ministry is going to increase in future steps organization of several mutual Understanding. He added that towards internationalisation and more coor- ( MCYS has the budget ready for dination will be made in the future. Minister culture and cultural heritage. each project. said that the friendly match between Kosovo Special attention was paid Whereas, Mayor of Prishtina, and Haiti had a great impact in interna- to renovation of stadium of Ahmeti, thanked the Minister for tional arena and which will help even more the city, building an auxiliary his hosting and said that they towards internationalisation of Kosovo in stadium of football, invest- have discussed for the projects sports, in order to have full admission in all ments from MCYS, building of that were requested by MCYS international sports mechanisms. He added an Olympic pool with co-fund- and which are foreseen within that MCYS is going to provide support for ing by Municipality and MCYS, the budget. He distinguished the each federation, and in particular to KOC in building of the Olympic Palace, project for investments in the all processes in the future. premise for federations and stadium of Prishtina. In particular in this meeting it was which is the project of MCYS, “We agreed together to an- discussed for participation of Kosovo this building of a youth centre from nounce a competing procedure year in the largest Convention of world the budget of MCYS, as well as for the repairs in the stadium sports “SportAccord”, which brings to- the possibility of co-funding of which are necessary and which gether heads and representatives of many a Universal Hall, project of the must be completed this year”, international sports mechanisms. MCYS is Municipality of Prishtina. said Mr. Ahmeti, highlighting going to provide the whole support need- In a press conference, Min- that they will see on the basis ed for the participation into this Conven- ister Krasniqi expressed his of the budget how many funds tion. Kosovo had participated also earlier pleasure to have found an un- can the Municipality allocate for in this convention. derstanding with Mayor Ahmeti this mutual project. The president of KOC, Besim Hasani that these projects are organized “Of course, we as a Munici- thanked minister Krasniqi for the support through cooperation between pality are interested that each he has given to sports, thus estimating that two institutions, and the soonest project that is in the interest this support has impacted on increasing the possible. He added that there are of the citizens and where the international attention and also attention several months that teams of the citizens of the Municipality of within Kosovo for the sports. He in addition both institutions have had regu- " - estimated that the projects undertaken by lar meetings in order to coordi- mented as soon as possible”. Government have helped on improvement nate the steps for these projects. In its turn, MCYS committed of sports infrastructure and regulating the “We are in a good way that it can invest up to 500 thou- legislation for sportsmen and sportswomen. to start the implementation sand Euros for the repairs in the ' 3 of concrete projects. These stadium of the city of Prishtina. future steps for KOC becoming member in projects are in the interest of Mr. Ahmeti emphasized that the International Olympic Committee and citizens and especially in the in May, the requests of MCYS for other federations into respective inter- interest of the performers parcels of Olympic Palace, auxil- national federations. He said that KOC is iary stadium and Youth Centre, going to closely cooperate with MCYS in interested to proceed them the shall be in the daily agenda in order to have coordination and actions soonest possible on bases of the the Municipal Assembly.  which bring concrete results.  No. 14. Year III. 21 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

Kosovo Youth Development Project, evidence of a new concept of thought and action for the youth rom 2011 to 2014, around “It was an itinerary with lots youth policies. SWRR3 of results, with concrete and “The support shall increase ev- Fin different concrete forms tangible steps, happy moments ery year. Moreover, entrepreneur- from the Kosovo Youth Develop- for the youth. Another reason is ship shall be one of the priorities ment Project, (KYDP), which was that during these 3 years, with of the Government of Kosovo. This implemented by the Ministry of the Kosovo Youth Development is the end of the second stage of Culture, youth and Sports, sup- Project the concept of thought and the project but however, it shall be ports by the World Bank and Ital- action has been changed for the a new beginning. Prime-minister ian Embassy in Kosovo. Its second youth. Perhaps once attention was of Kosovo Hashim Thaçi soon will stage was completed in an event more paid on theoretical aspects make a decision on the creation of ceremony, in which also Minis- on youth development and its a Development Fund for Kosovo, ter of Culture, Youth and Sports, support, but, in this stage, I would in the amount of around 1 billion Memli Krasniqi, Deputy Ambas- say we have hit the target. We have Euros and one of the main compo- sador of in Kosovo, Salvatore acted in practice, there where it nents, thus, shall be the support of was needed more and that has a new businesses” he stated. project participated. direct impact on the development Whereas, Deputy Ambassa- This stage started in 2011. of youth, their ideas and plans. And dor of Italy Salvatore Marino has Value of the was around 2.8 million then this affects also the general congratulated MCYS and all other Dollars and through it grants were c implementers for the results this provided for over 250 businesses in the closing ceremony at Hotel project has marked. of the youth throughout Kosovo in Sirius in Prishtina. “Italian Embassy was happy for the amount of over 900 thousand The Minister mentioned in supporting this project, since, as Dollars, 18 Youth Centres in Koso- 33( the Minister said, he has foreseen vo were supported with the total has brought, stating that KYDP concrete support for the youth”, he amount of over 300 thousand Dol- affected the opening of many new stated. Marino added that Italy and lars, over 800 youth were trained businesses by the youth, employ- ment of youth, professional educa- they can cooperate and expressed Youth Department was supported tion of the youth, practical training, ones readiness for broadening the in MCYS via increasing the capac- foundation and development of 3 youth centres, as well as increase culture and sports. Youth Strategy 2013-2017. the capacities for the management Besides, last year, MCYS also Minister Krasniqi estimated this 3?‚] project as one of the most import- He stated that MCYS has raised entrepreneurship from this project ant that was designed and imple- funds for youth during these three from the annual budget. In 2013, mented for the youth in Kosovo. He years and has given priority to en- around 100 thousand Euros were thanked the World Bank and Italian trepreneurship. Furthermore, the given as a grant for more than 20 Embassy for the support offered to minister said that support shall business projects of the youth. this process, as well as supervising be raised even more in the suc- Moreover, every year, MCYS has it together with MCYS throughout ceeding years, since now there is a allocated 500 thousand Euros on all implementation process. good model of the development of different youth projects. 

22 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

Continuous Support for the Municipality of Mitrovica and the Municipality of Drenas

foreseen to start the restoration of Xhafer Deva’s house. In its turn, Mayor of the Mu- nicipality of Mitrovica, Agim Bahtiri, thanked the Minister for the support he provided for this 3 33' the minister for plans and projects of sports, culture and heritage, and also committed to broadening of the cooperation. In the meeting with the Mayor of the Municipality of Drenas, too, it was discussed for the opportu- nities of cooperation in different projects in future, estimating projects that were implemented inister of Culture, Youth with Kosovo Football Federation. and also that are being imple- and Sports, Memli Krasniqi, The Municipality of Mitrovica is mented. On this occasion, they Mhas welcomed in separate responsible for installation of discussed for the Sports Hall, meetings Mayor of the Municipality lightning, sound system and sema- - of Mitrovica, Agim Bahtiri and May- phores based on this document. struction of the assisting stadium or of the Municipality of Drendas, The Minister stated that through of football, renovation of the city Nexhat Demaku. this, the stadium shall be modern- stadium. In the meeting with the Mayor ized even more and the conditions In his turn, the Mayor of of Mitrovica, they discussed about 3 Drenas thanked the Minister for ( international matches. his hospitality and readiness to culture, cultural heritage and Minister Krasniqi mentioned support projects covered by MCYS, sports in this municipality. Min- hoping to further broaden the co- ister Krasniqi stated that MCYS culture, MCYS supports several operation aiming to get advanced has prioritized Mitrovica in many cultural projects. Further, he em- 33 projects on culture and sports. On phasized that this year MCYS has this Municipality.  this occasion, he talked about the renovation of the Olympic stadi- um ‘Adem Jashari’. The Minister stated that MCYS now is expected 63 of athletics in this stadium. Fur- thermore, he also mentioned the construction of sports spaces at the Multi-functional Centre, a project V$3 Union in a value of over 20 million Euros, in which MCYS invests 8 million Euros. _3 (3 was also the installation of light- ning, sound system and sema- phore in ‘Adem Jashari’ stadium. Minister Krasniqi asked to install it as soon as possible, as fore- seen also in memorandum signed No. 14. Year III. 23 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

Minister Krasniqi wel- comed in an introducto- ry meeting, Ambassador of Albania in Kosovo, Qemal Minxhozi he Minister of Culture, Youth Minister Krasniqi met and Sports welcomed in an MCYS and British the Representative of introductory meeting the T Council cooperate on the cultural association Ambassador of Albania in Kosovo, Qemal Minxhozi. the promotion of Kosovo’s “Sofra Gjakovare” Congratulating him for his duty, inister of Culture, Youth Minister Krasniqi thanked the cultural scene and Sports, Memli Krasniqi ambassador for the cooperation inister of Culture, Youth Mwelcomed in a meeting the Albania has offered to Kosovo in and Sports, Memli Krasniqi representative of Cultural Associa- 333 Mwelcomed in a meeting the tion “Sofra Gjakovare” from Skopje, and cultural heritage, cooperation Regional Director of the British directed by Head of this associa- which served as an example be- Council, Michael Bird and Kosovo tion, Baki Maliqi. tween two countries. Director of the British Council, Minister Krasniqi congratulated '_ Arjeta Emra. the representatives of association In this meeting it was discussed “Sofra Gjakovare” for the work of culture, youth, cultural heritage for the cooperation that the MCYS 3 and sports in Kosovo, as well as for and the British Council have in the of the culture and broadening the the projects in future. 33 cooperation with cultural institu- The Minister said that one thanked Mr. Bird for the support tions in Kosovo. He informed them of the most important projects the British Council has offered to about the activities and work that for culture in Kosovo, but also in cultural scene in Kosovo, emphasiz- ?‚] Albania, is the signing of Common ing its promotion. He talked about 33 Cultural Calendar, which already the achievements and challenges in achievement of the objective by started to be implemented both in 336 signing the common cultural calen- Kosovo and Albania. will for even a bigger engagement dar between Kosovo and Albania. He said that in future, there shall and broadening the cooperation Furthermore, Minister Krasniqi be even more common projects with many other stakeholders. informed the guests that the sup- between Kosovo and Albania, as in The Minister highly estimated port for culture has been increased culture, heritage, sports and youth. the contribution of BC for the open- continuously, doubling the budget In his turn, the Ambassador ing of the exhibition of the famous for culture as compared to the past. Minxhozi thanked the Minister for artist Henry Moore, in Kosovo Na- Whereas, Head of Skopian the hosting and congratulated him Association, Baki Maliqi thanked for the work he did in the advance- 6 b))33 the Minister for the hosting. He ment and promotion of cultural të përzgjedhura” (“Selected graph- scene in Kosovo, improvement of ics and sculptures”). The exhibition of association and the Albanian cul- sports infrastructure, as well as shall be opened on Thursday, 27 tural organization in Skopje since maintenance and promotion of march 2014, in Kosovo National after the Second World War. cultural heritage. He added that Gallery. The Minister also thanked Moreover, Maliqi gave informa- he shall work for enhancing even the British Council for the support tion about the cultural and artis- more the cooperation between it shall offer in the organization tic plans and projects that have Kosovo and Albania in culture, of the 13th session of European been accomplished for six months youth and cultural heritage.  Cultural Parliament, this year in since they have been created as an October, in Kosovo. association. Amongst their plans, In his turn, Michael Bird Maliqi said, is also expanding their thanked the Minister for the host- activities in Kosovo, too. ing and the cooperation offered. He In the meeting, it was proposed to appreciated the achievements in see for the possibilities of the coordi- 336 nation so that in the coming years, ac- his readiness to increase the coop- tivities of Cultural Association “Sofra eration between the British Council Gjakovare” could be included also in and MCYS, especially in the sphere the common cultural calendar.  of cultural exchanges.  24 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

Coordination for the best organization and promotion of the International Half-marathon of Prishtina

Minister Krasniqi met the heads of Sport Fishing Federation of Kosovo inister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Memli Krasniqi hosted Mtoday in a meeting the heads of Fishing Federation of Kosovo, after their acceptance in World Confederation of Sports Fishing C.I.P.S. Minister Krasniqi congratulated them for the up to date work for promotion of inister of Culture, Youth could be promoted in the best He said that it is important for this and Sports (MCYS), possible way. federation to have the doors open for MMemli Krasniqi wel- Moreover, Minister Krasniqi international activities and in this aspect comed in a meeting Head of expressed his readiness to he appreciated the work of heads of fed- Kosovo Athletics Federation offer the full support to KAF, erations. He considered the engagement (KAF), Halil Sylejmani, with on the issue of internation- of federation as outstanding in internal the cooperators, where it was alization of athletics and its organisation and efforts for sensitizing discussed for the aspect of in- membership in the European ternationalization, coordination Athletics and IAAF. said that as it happened in the past, in of steps for joining of KAF in the Head of KAF, Halil Sylejmani, the future as well MCYS shall support this European Athletic Association informed the Minister about federation too in the national activities and International Association the course of preparations for and international presentation. of Athletic Federations (IAAF), the Semi-marathon and the On his part, the Head of Fishers Feder- in the renovation of athletics steps up to which they reached ation, Arianit Sllamniku thanked the min- trails in the Olympic Stadium of regarding the internationaliza- ister for his continuous support. He spoke “Adem Jashari” in Mitrovica. tion. In addition, he informed about the activity they have developed till They also talked about the the Minister for activities and organization of the Internation- achievements of athletes and for the future. Sllamniku stressed that it is al Semi-marathon of Prishtina the work developed by FFK. encouraging that they have support from by KAF, which traditionally is Sylejmani thanked the Min- the state in each of their initiatives.  supported by MCYS. Re-con- ister for his and MCYS readi- 3 ness to assist athletics in many the activities, support for this aspects, which besides creating activity, Minister asked Head facilitates for athletes also of KAF, Sylejmani, that as many contributes in the advancement youth to get engaged as possible of this sport inside the country in this important sports event and in its internationalization. organized, and as many foreign In this occasion, he highlighted athletes be invited as possible the investments that will take in order to make it the best place in the entire renovation promotion and organization, of athletic trails in the Olympic so that this traditional activity Stadium of ‘Adem Jashari’.  No. 14. Year III. 25 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

Deputy Minister Dedaj met his homologue from Albania eputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Gjergj Dedaj stayed for a work visit in Albania, Dwhere he met his homologue, Deputy Minister of Culture of Albania, Zef Quni. Deputy Minister Dedaj thanked for the hospital- ity and informed his homologue Quni on activities, 8 of culture, where he also mentioned the signing of common cultural calendar between the two countries. 3†3‡<3 Kosovo-Albania cooperation, aiming thus the exchange MCYS and Kosovo Post 633 Both Deputy Ministers discussed for the possibility sign an agreement of of further broadening the cooperation between the Ministries and countries.  cooperation he Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and Kosovo Post have signed a Memorandum of TUnderstanding on the mutual support in the ful- ‘On behalf of MCYS, the Memorandum was signed by Secretary General, Veton Firzi, whereas, on behalf of Kosovo Post, it was signed by chief executive Sejdi Hoxha. In the ceremony of singing, Minister Memli Krasniqi was present as well. He estimated this mem- orandum as a step that will provide better services and impact in the promotion of our culture. Based on this memorandum, the Post shall pro- vide all required post services for the needs of MCYS, making concrete agreement and also provide all post products for MCYS, in accordance with determined Dedaj welcomed a delegation tariffs and internal policies of the Post. Moreover, Kosovo Post shall provide advice and from Texas, USA professional support for the way of presentation, eputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, maintenance and promotion of post stamps, collec- Gjergj Dedaj welcomed a delegation from Texas tions for national and international exhibitions. DUSA and the representative of Christian Inter- Meanwhile, MCYS shall support projects which are national School of Vienna, who he initially thanked for related with culture and presentation of the philately the historic contribution of USA for peace, freedom, of Kosovo by the Kosovo Post.  democracy, independence, and the Euro-Atlantic perspective of Kosovo. The Deputy Minister of MCYS, - gation from USA with the current situation in Kosovo, position of Kosovo Youth and the situation in the sphere of culture and sports in Kosovo. Dedaj reemphasized the need to further broaden- ing the cooperation between USA and Kosovo, espe- cially, that of exchanging experiences of the youth, education and training the new leadership, coopera- 33 In their turn, the delegation from Texas of USA expressed their readiness to proceed the cooperation 3` match is going to take place in the Municipality of Gjakova and thus, American sports shall begin to be promoted in the Republic of Kosovo.  26 No. 14. Year III. Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, NEWSLETTER MAR/APR 2014 Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III.

‘Çarshia e Madhe’ Grand Bazaar Gjakova No. 14. Year III. 27 Bi-monthly newsletter of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport of Republic of Kosovo. No. 14. Year III. MAR/APR 2014 NEWSLETTER

28 No. 14. Year III.