SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES RESTRAINT, PATIENCE IN KOSOVO

Press Release
SG/SM/7037

SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES RESTRAINT, PATIENCE IN KOSOVO

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

I appeal to all parties and every citizen of Kosovo to show the utmost restraint and patience as the long and hard work of peace-building and reconstruction begins. The United Nations and KFOR are committed to helping you -- the people of Kosovo -- create a peaceful, democratic and multi-ethnic society.

I urge the Kosovar Albanian population to return to their homes -- but to be patient and to do so with the aid and assistance of KFOR and the United Nations. I urge the Serbian population in Kosovo to remain in their homes and do their part to return Kosovo to a life of peaceful coexistence among all communities.

The United Nations and KFOR are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all the people of Kosovo, regardless of ethnic background. I urge all parties to recommit themselves to creating a life of peaceful coexistence, which is the foundation for lasting peace in Kosovo, and throughout the region.

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