US Ambassador in Pristina Jeffrey Hovenier received a decoration for contributions to peace, democracy and humanity which was presented by Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani on Wednesday.

The ambassador was presented the Ibrahim Rugova Order which is awarded to individuals whose lifelong contributions are recognized as significant in fostering peace, advancing democracy, and promoting humanity.

Osmani told the ceremony that Hovenier was more than just an ambassador for Kosovo. “He stood with us when the people of Kosovo faced horrific crimes, he reported on the Racak massacre, he supported us as we established our independent state, and he has been with us in recent years defending our independence, sovereignty, and the strong alliance with the USA,” Osmani wrote in a Facebook post.

The ambassador said the decoration reflects “the collective efforts and dedication of everyone involved in promoting peace and stability in Kosovo and advancing our shared vision for a sovereign, democratic, and multiethnic state”.