Press Release

18/02/2008

Kosovo: the day of responsibility has come. Doris Pack MEP

In a declaration to the press on the occasion of Kosovo's unilateral declaration of independence, Doris Pack, Member of the European Parliament and Chairwoman of the Delegation for Relations with the Countries of South East Europe, said:

"This is an important day for Kosovo. The Kosovo Parliamentary Assembly has declared independence. The citizens of Kosovo and their political leaders have looked forward to this moment for a long time. Ibrahim Rugova had worked peacefully for this goal and his message has at last been understood. It was high time to unblock the uncertainties and give to the people of Kosovo, to all of them, a proper basis for a better future. I am close to them and share their feelings now".

"This is also the day of responsibility: it will not be an easy task to organise democratic and efficient institutions, everybody's contribution will be required. Special attention will have to be devoted to the full implementation of the minorities' rights and to improve their living standards. I especially call on the Serbs of Kosovo to remain in their homes and participate in building a better-integrated society, in the light of shared European values."

"At last, I hope, with a clear Kosovo status, Serbia will be able to fully use its potential for ensuring the youth the perspectives they deserve and for preparing its accession to the EU, without being burdened from the past."

"A big effort of responsibility is also required from the international community: I call on the Member States of the European Union to say yes to the people of Kosovo and recognise them without delay."

"In the region, I hope that the neighbouring countries will maintain a constructive attitude and will contribute to preserving stability. We will follow the evolution of the situation very closely", Pack concluded.

For further information:
Doris Pack MEP, Tel: +33-388-177310