Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced yesterday that Israel has decided to establish diplomatic relations with Kosovo, making Israel the 117th country to recognize Kosovo as an independent and free state.

We wholeheartedly thank the people of Israel for extending their friendship and compassion. This is an important step to acknowledge the suffering and struggle that both peoples are familiar with. The people of Kosovo had to fight for their right to exist in defiance of a relentless and cruel foe, a fight that was far from symbolic, and one that continues to this day.

Thank you Israel!