Press Release

13 June 1999

UN OPENS HEADQUARTERS IN KOSOVO

PRISTINA - The United Nations established its operational presence in Kosovo today with the arrival of the interim Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Kosovo, Sergio Vieira de Mello.

Mr. Vieira de Mello is setting up the Pristina headquarters for the UN international civilian mission, which will provide a temporary administration for Kosovo as mandated by UN Security Council Resolution 1244.

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan named Mr. Vieira de Mello as acting Special Representative on 11 June. A native of Brazil, Mr. Vieira de Mello has served as Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affaires and Emergency Relief Coordinator since January 1998. Previously he was UN Assistant High Commissioner for Refugees. His many humanitarian and peacekeeping posts included a senior position with the UN in Bosnia-Herzegovina.

The Secretary-General's Special Representative will be the top civilian administrator in Kosovo until the province is able to enjoy substantial autonomy and self-government. Working in close coordination with international security forces, the United Nations Mission in Kosovo will oversee the return of refugees, humanitarian assistance and relief, demining and reconstruction, the establishment of democratic institutions, protection and promotion of rights and the formation of a civilian police force.

The UN-led interim administration will also facilitate the political process, which will determine Kosovo's future status.

Mr. Vieira de Mello brought with him an advance team of UN officials, including his deputy Martin Griffiths, the UN Regional Coordinator for the Balkans. Mr. Griffiths leads the Secretary-General's Core Advance Team, which will lay the ground for implementation of the various sectors to be administered by the UN and other international civilian organization.