UNMIK/PR/340
PRISTINA—A group of 35 children of Kosovo from different communities are travelling to France for medical treatment on Saturday 9 September. The trip was made possible thanks to a joint operation by the humanitarian organization “La Chaîne de l’Espoir”, the French Ministry of Defense, KFOR and IOM. They are 22 Albanians, 9 Serbs and 3 Roma children suffering from serious cardiac illness, ophthalmologic, orthopedic or visceral problems. SRSG Bernard Kouchner is flying with the children on their “Flight for Hope”. The aircraft is provided by French Ministry of Defense. Dr. Kouchner welcomes the effort of the international community working together to improve live conditions of the people of Kosovo.
“On Saturday we will celebrate the Day Against Violence in Kosovo, a joint initiative by Kosovo political leaders to end violence and to build a unique and undivided Kosovo. I am very grateful, in the name of these children and of all children of Kosovo, to the organizers of the operation, which is a symbol of what Kosovo will be tomorrow, a peaceful and prosperous land where all Kosovo people of all communities can live together. These children represent hope of a better Kosovo to which the international community is fully committed”.
“La chaîne de l’Espoir” is a humanitarian association founded in 1988 on the initiative of physicians. “La Chaine de l’Espoir”’ activities range from providing medical and surgical care for children in their home countries to creating hospital facilities abroad for children who cannot be treated medically in their home countries for technical or financial reasons. “La Chaîne de l’Espoir” has been active in Kosovo in assisting wounded and sick children and adults during and after the conflict.
The children will be treated in specialised hospitals in France, UK and in Monaco.
There will be a media opportunity at Pristina Airport before the flight leaves on Saturday, at 13: 30. Speakers at the press briefing will include SRSG Bernard Kouchner, Professor Alain Deloche, Founder and President of « La Chaîne de l’Espoir », Dr. Eric Cheysson, VicePresident and Responsible for the programme in Kosovo, General Jean-Philippe Wirth, Deputy Com KFOR and Military Representative of France in Kosovo and Kosovo political leaders. UNMIK Press office will provide a Bus for media.