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UNMIK/PR/676
PRISTINA - After one year as Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for Kosovo, I have decided not to renew my contract which expires on 31 December 2001. Serving as head of UNMIK has been very interesting and challenging, and it has been possible to move things further than I had initially imagined. When taking over the job I presented four priorities: establishment of substantial autonomy, including Kosovo-wide elections, initiating a dialogue with the Yugoslav leadership, strengthening of law enforcement, and getting the economy up and running. In spring the Constitutional Framework for Kosovo's autonomy was promulgated, and elections were held on 17 November, with Serb participation. This was made possible by the agreement between UNMIK and Belgrade on a Common Document outlining areas of cooperation. The preconditions for an effective fight against terrorism and organized crime have been created, and a fully-funded budget for 2002 is in place. I wish to thank all the many talented and dedicated people I have worked with and who have made this possible, and I wish those in Kosovo, striving to establish a democratic and multi-ethnic society, all the best in the future. It has been great to work for the United Nations and feel the support from the Secretary-General and his staff in New York. After a very intensive year in Kosovo, I look forward to spending more
time with my family before taking up new challenges. |