UNMIK/PR/207
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Dr. Bernard Kouchner, today welcomed the decision by the Serb National Council of Gracanica to join as observers the Joint Interim Administrative Structure, which is managing Kosovo pending elections.
“This was not an easy decision, and it will not be an easy period for those Serb leaders who voted to join us,” said Dr. Kouchner, who is currently outside Kosovo. “But this courageous move will open the way to a future Kosovo can be proud of, a future of democracy and real peace, with a place and a role for all its communities.”
“Now, the real work can start on setting up the administration of Kosovo. This decision gives us a real possibility of building a united and tolerant society."
Kouchner said that the decision would also prove a key to the reconstruction of Kosovo in a way that will enable the return of those Serbs who fled over the past nine months. "We will now begin the common work aimed at achieving co-existence and eventually reconciliation," he said.
"Let us finally look to the future, without forgetting the past; let us begin laying the foundation for the next generation in Kosovo."
Dr. Kouchner acknowledged that for the Serbs in the JIAS this was a period of observation. "However I am certain that this period will serve to convince them--and others who have hesitated--to join as full members of the structure tasked with building the future of Kosovo."