By Eliot Engel Representative from the 16th Congressional District of New York

Witnessing Kosova's move from war to peace and from tyranny to liberty has been among the most fulfilling aspects of my career as a public servant. The establishment of Kosova's democratically-elected Assembly, its free and fair elections, and its system based on the rule of law are the essence of the country's political independence, future prosperity, and alignment with the West.

But nobody ever said building a democracy is easy work.

By ELIOT L. ENGEL 22/7/15 Building a democracy is hard work, and Kosovo needs international backing in achieving this.

I recently returned from Kosovo where I met with the country’s leaders. We discussed the growth in Kosovo’s democracy and how Freedom House has upgraded its rating to “Parliamentary Democracy.” We reflected on the overwhelming support of the Kosovar people for the United States and their strong desire to join NATO and the European Union.

Kosovo’s Prime Minister Isa Mustafa met today with United States Congressman Elliot Engel in Pristina and discussed on-going processes in Kosovo, reforms being made by the Kosovo government, the implementation of international obligations and Kosovo’s Euro-Atlantic prospects. Mustafa thanked Engel and the United States administration for their continuous support for Kosovo. Mustafa and Engel also discussed on the creation of the specialist chambers and their importance for Kosovo.

The Kosovo Assembly President Kadri Veseli, met today with United States Congressman Elliot Engel, and discussed current developments in Kosovo, its European perspective and cooperation between the two countries. Veseli thanked Engel for his engagement and contribution in raising the awareness about the Kosovo issue and the efforts for liberation and independence. Veseli briefed Engel on ongoing processes in Kosovo, the challenges and difficulties. Engel said the United States, its Congress and people will continue to support Kosovo in its path toward Euro-Atlantic integration.

United States Congressman Elliot Engel in his address to the Kosovo Assembly today called for the establishment of the special court that will address war crimes allegations. Engel said the court would be established, either by the Kosovo Assembly or the United Nations, and that it would not be good for Kosovo if the UN establishes the court. Engel said Kosovo was doing many things that other countries cannot do, but also that a lot remains to be done in the fight against corruption and for economic development.