(ANSA) - BELGRADE, FEB 17 - "Today, we remember the peaceful resistance of the 1990s, as well as the Kosovo Liberation Army. We honour the martyrs and strive to preserve and exalt our Republic in their name." This was how Prime Minister Albin Kurti commemorated the 18th anniversary of Kosovo's declaration of independence today, which was observed in squares across the country. The celebrations began with the flag being raised at the Presidential Palace, followed by formal sessions of the government and parliament. President Vjosa Osmani told the National Assembly that 18 years ago, Kosovo transitioned from suffering to dignity, resistance to sovereignty. "It became a state to defend the truth and never allow history to be rewritten," she said, referring to the ongoing war crimes trial of former President Hashim Thaci and other KLA leaders at The Hague's Special Court. Osmani maintained that the KLA's war was "just, and any attempt to tarnish it undermines the foundations of a long-term peace." Albanian President Bajram Begaj stated, "Kosovo was a place where freedom was killed; today, it is a place where freedom functions and inspires." (ANSA).