UNMIK/PR/384

PRESS RELEASE - 6 October 2000

SRSG Kouchner Statement on Developments in the FRY

I welcome with great joy and relief the news of changes in Belgrade. The people of Serbia have spoken. They have made a clear choice. They're asking for democratic rule, and the world should respect their decision. This is the realization of a dream. Finally, the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia can take its place in Europe as a democracy. Finally the years of terrible conflict can end, and healing can begin.

However, many challenges remain ahead for the people of Kosovo and for the international community working here. UNMIK will continue to implement our mandate under Security Council resolution 1244, to prepare Kosovo for substantial autonomy.

The people of Kosovo have suffered greatly in the past, due to the former regime in Belgrade. They have not yet recovered. The attention of the international community must not be diverted from the tasks at hand here in Kosovo. Holding democratic municipal elections, rebuilding Kosovo and developing the economy remain vital projects which demand no change in the international commitment to Kosovo.

I intend to start a meaningful dialogue with the new government in Belgrade to begin work on resolving crucial issues facing Kosovo, first of all that of detainees in Serbia and the thousands of missing people. In fact, I have already established contact with the opposition in Belgrade.