UNMIK/PR/556
PRISTINA---The SRSG discussed today the work on the Legal Framework as well as a variety of other issues related to the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1244 with FRY President Kostunica and Foreign Minister Svilanovic, as well as with the ambassadors of the EU member states and of the US accredited to the FRY.
SRSG Hans Haekkerup underlined that the work of the working group would aim at ensuring meaningful provisional self-governance with substantial autonomy under Resolution 1244, without prejudice to a final political settlement. The SRSG urged President Kostunica to use his influence on the Kosovo Serbs to have them participating in the Joint Working Group. President Kostunica agreed to do so and informed the SRSG that according to his information the Kosovo Serbs are considering at present. The SRSG noted the opinion of Mr. Kostunica that the representatives of the Kosovo Serbs in the Joint Working Group should have the opportunity to get legal advice when needed. The SRSG informed the President that he would undertake consultations with local as well as international partners before finalizing the legal framework through the normal procedures in the Interim Administrative Council in Kosovo.
On the issues of detainees, SRSG expresses his appreciation for the results that had been manifested following the passing of an amnesty law, but pointed out that this had not resolved all outstanding cases, in particular the "Gjakova group" and other persons who still remain in detention on similar charges. President Kostunica gave his assurance that these cases would soon be resolved, an assurance which he reiterated in his public statement following the meeting.
On the issue of missing persons, SRSG pointed out that some 3,000 persons are now listed as missing from all communities in Kosovo, and that UNMIK is committed to use whatever resources can be brought to bear to resolve them for all communities.
SRSG underlined that UNMIK is committed to support the return of displaced persons and refugees, but that our foremost priority would be the security of returnees. There are nonetheless a few areas where returns may be possible.