A few days before leaving for Paris, where Kosovo will be represented by nine athletes at the Olympic Games, the country's president Vjosa Osmani has handed judoka Nora Gjakova the country's flag under which she will compete with the world's strongest countries in France.

On this occasion, Osmani said that Kosovo's participation in the Olympic Games represents the culmination of an unparalleled work that in many cases worked even in the absence of basic conditions

She told the athletes that during the competition in Paris they should keep in mind that the whole nation will support them and that the heart of every Kosovar will beat for them, until she emphasized that these athletes with their victories will bring victory for all of Kosovo and this will be an inspiration for all new generations.

Whereas, the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, emphasized that this is a historic moment, as Kosovo participates for the third time in the Olympic Games. He said that these successive successes are the result of the work and passion of the athletes but also of the coach Driton Kuka.

Kurti emphasized that the road to Paris is not easy, but so far it has been proven that unimaginable results can be achieved with dedication and joint work.

Kurti: Every step you take is a victory for all of Kosovo

"All of you together represent the dreams and hopes of Kosovo, you are an example of what can be achieved with hard work, discipline and self-belief. The road to Paris is not easy but we have proven that when we are together we are ready to face any challenge that comes our way… When you go to play in Paris, know that all of us are with you, all of Kosovo is with you. Don't forget that every step you take and every victory you achieve is a victory for all of us", said Kurti.

The President of the Kosovo Olympic Committee, Ismet Krasniqi, stated that Kosovo's participation is a manifestation of the national fighting spirit. According to him, Kosovo is ready to enjoy another success of the athletes in Paris, and the athletes will be modern heroes of the country.

Olympic champion Majlinda Kelmendi inspired the athletes with her speech. In front of them, she said that Kosovo is continuing its great successes in sports even after her, while adding that in Paris the team is traveling for other elite medals.

The Olympic Games in Paris will take place from July 26 to August 11.