New Kosova Report

Rallies in world cities for Kosovo independence

Wednesday, 12 December 2007

United Nations

London, Prishtina, New York, Stockholm - Albanians and their supporters staged rallies across world cities on Sunday and Monday in support of Kosovo independence. The biggest pro-Kosovo London rally since the conclusion of the NATO air war in Kosovo took place on Sunday in front of 10 Downing Street, United Kingdom’s government seat.

On Monday around 3,000 University of Prishtina students peacefully marched in support of Kosovo independence carrying American and Albanian flags. Leaders of the student initiative requested from the representatives of the Kosovo Parliament to declare immediate independence. They also requested from the international community not to manipulate with the fate of Kosovo and that of her two million citizens. "Europe, show some unity” said one of the banners held by the students.

Albanian-Americans from as far as Chicago gathered outside the United Nations building in New York City to hold a demonstration demanding independence for Kosovo. Former Balkan peace broker Richard Holbrook was a guest speaker at the event stating that Kosovo would become Europe's newest country.

Holbrook insisted that a NATO force be enforced in Kosovo in the coming months to prevent and control any violence that may erupt in the region. Despite the cold weather, hundreds of supporters flooded the streets of New York chanting "USA! Free Kosova!"

Another smaller protest took place in Stockholm, Sweden in front of the Swedish parliament.

December 10th marked the deadline of the UN negotiations on the final status of Kosovo.

Reporting and photos for New Kosova Report: Kujtim Zenelaj and others.