OSCE Chair welcomes peaceful conduct of municipal elections in Kosovo

VIENNA, 29 October 29, 2000 - The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Austrian Foreign Minister Benita Ferrero-Waldner, welcomes the peaceful and orderly conduct of the Municipal Elections in Kosovo on 28 October 2000. For the first time in Kosovo, democratic elections have taken place. "The elections represent an important step in the democratization process and the further implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1244", Ferrero-Waldner declared.

"After an election campaign which can generally be characterized as peaceful and calm, I welcome the fact that the election day showed a high voter turnout, which underlines the strong commitment of the voters to the democratic process."

"I encourage the new holders of office to follow the path of moderation for the benefit of the people of Kosovo and strive for peaceful co-existence of all communities. In the framework of UNMIK, the OSCE will continue to work with the newly elected authorities to further develop the building of institutions. In addition, the OSCE will remain committed to its policy of assisting the moderate forces in Kosovo to ensure the strengthening of civil society and the implementation of human rights. In this context, I underline the importance of measures to accelerate the return of refugees and displaced persons of all ethnic backgrounds", Ferrero-Waldner stated.

"I reiterate the importance of safeguarding the interests of all ethnic communities in the future political process. The preservation of a multiethnic society in Kosovo remains our political goal. In that respect, I support the co-option of representatives of communities otherwise not represented into municipal administration structures. At the same time, I appeal to all political leaders in Kosovo to respect the outcome of the vote and to continue their efforts to promote tolerance and to create a free and safe environment for all inhabitants of Kosovo.", Ferrero-Waldner said.

"I thank UNMIK and KFOR for their tireless efforts with regard to these elections. Furthermore I commend the efforts of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo in organizing the elections under such difficult circumstances. Finally, I am grateful to the Council of Europe for its lead in the observation of the elections", Ferrero-Waldner added.

For further information contact the Press and Public Information Section of the OSCE Secretariat, tel.: (+ 43-1) 514 36 180 or e-mail: info@osce.org