29.05.2021 – 15:23
After three decades on VOA, journalist Ilir Ikonomi hosted the last show of a career on Friday, during which he covered major events in the United States, Albania, Kosovo and wherever there is an Albanian-speaking public.
Here is his greeting to the VOA audience:
“Before we part, I want to let you know that this is my last day on VOA. After that, I retire to pursue other passions in my life.
After almost three decades, I feel privileged to have worked in this highly respected institution that is traditionally known as the voice of truth. But I would like to say to all of you, our viewers: thank you for the opportunity you gave me to enter your homes, to speak openly with you, to share with you the news from America and the world.
In these moments I remember one of the culminating events of my career – June 12, 1999 when I entered Kosovo with NATO troops and reported from there to VOA by satellite phone.
Events like this and others will remain unresolved in my memory.
When the Voice of America was created about 80 years ago, its presenter William Harlan Hale, said some monumental words that we constantly mention as our creed. He said: “The news can be good for us, or bad. We will tell you the truth. “
Reporting the truth is not easy because it takes courage, it takes work. And I believe that VOA journalists working outside of government interference can be fully recognized for this.
That is why I say that it was an honor for me, if I helped a little in this endeavor.
For VOA, I am Ilir Ikonomi.
Good night!”
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