At a solemn ceremony organized for this occasion, the work and contribution of Customs were highly praised as one of the key institutions of the country, not only in the fiscal aspect but also as an essential mechanism for economic security and the protection of the rule of law.

In a keynote speech, Kosovo’s outgoing Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, said that during 26 years of its operation, Kosovo Customs has served beyond its fiscal role.

He emphasized that Customs has transformed into a fundamental pillar of state sovereignty and an important instrument for the economic protection of the country. He described this institution as the first line of defense against smuggling, corruption, and organized crime.

“In these 26 years, Kosovo Customs has been more than a fiscal institution. It has been a pillar of the defense of our state sovereignty, an essential mechanism for economic security, and the first line of defense against smuggling, corruption, and organized crime. The path to consolidating this institution has not been easy. Customs has gone through great challenges… Today, with your graduation, new cadets, Customs gains not only new staff but also new energy, fresh thinking, and motivation to move forward together… You are not just future employees, you are defenders of the country’s legal and economic borders,” said Kurti.

The outgoing Minister of Finance, Labor, and Transfers, Hekuran Murati, stressed that continuous dedication to the state is being crowned with such meaningful achievements, where the new customs officers graduating today join public service with a clear mission.

He described service to the state as one of the noblest duties, recalling the sacrifices of generations for freedom and nation-building.

“This dedication culminates with an achievement like this, where your relatives, these customs cadets who graduate today, dedicate themselves to service. There is no duty or job nobler than serving your state, for which generations have fought… Congratulations dear cadets on your graduation and I wish you much success… As one of the key institutions of the country, not only fiscally but also for defining the territory and border of the country, Kosovo Customs celebrates its 26th anniversary this year. It is among the first institutions created after the country’s liberation,” said Murati.

The General Director of Kosovo Customs, Agron Llugaliu, said this day is important because it coincides with the 26th anniversary of Customs and the graduation of new cadets. He noted that this is an opportunity to reflect on the institution’s work and challenges over the years.

Llugaliu highlighted North Mitrovica as an area that has been challenging until recently but added that full state functionality has now been restored there.

He stated that since its establishment, Customs has collected around 22 billion euros for the state budget, and this year it is expected to exceed 2 billion euros in revenues.

“This memorable day combines the 26th anniversary of Kosovo Customs and the graduation of the new generation of cadets, offering us a chance to reflect on our journey… The North Mitrovica area has remained challenging until recent years. Through actions there, we have restored full and inviolable state functionality throughout the territory… Since its establishment, Customs has collected around 22 billion euros. This year, according to current goals, we expect to exceed 2 billion euros in revenues within this fiscal year… Confiscations and seizures for 2024 exceed 17 million euros… Dear cadets, working in Customs is not just a profession; it is a mission. You are guardians of the border, security, and the country’s economy,” said Llugaliu.

Meanwhile, in a keynote speech, the Deputy Head of the European Union Office in Kosovo, Eva Palatova, emphasized the continuous support the EU has provided to customs institutions since 1999.

She said they are proud to have helped in new reforms, including employing new customs officers.

“When I looked at the work done by Kosovo Customs, I was impressed. I understand that Kosovo Customs collects almost 65.5 percent of tax revenues and more than half of Kosovo’s total budget. What caught my attention was how the European Union has supported Kosovo Customs in various fields and formats for a long time. The EU has supported you since 1999. We are proud to have supported you in new reforms by hiring new customs officers,” said Palatova.

The representative of the new generation of graduating customs officers, Shkurta Hajredini, said that for all cadets, this day is not only the completion of training but a new beginning and an important decision in their lives.

Hajredini said that after six months of intensive training, they feel proud to now be part of Kosovo Customs.

“There is a moment when each of us stops and realizes that today was not just a message, a course, or training. It was a beginning, a decision that we give direction to our lives. This moment starts today… Today, after six months of intensive training, we are proud to belong to Kosovo Customs,” said Hajredini.

The customs officers received certificates for completing the training to become part of Kosovo Customs.