SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES ALL ELIGIBLE VOTERS TO PARTICIPATE IN KOSOVO ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

SECRETARY-GENERAL URGES ALL ELIGIBLE VOTERS TO PARTICIPATE

IN KOSOVO ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

      The following statement was issued this afternoon by the Office of the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

      The Kosovo Assembly elections of 17 November constitute a major step forward in the implementation of United Nations Security Council resolution 1244 (1999), by giving the people of Kosovo provisional self-governing institutions to ensure conditions for a peaceful and normal life for all inhabitants.  This should be a milestone in the development of an inclusive, prosperous and democratic Kosovo.

The Secretary-General fully supports the arrangements in place for the elections.  He hopes that all eligible voters, irrespective of ethnic background or political affiliation, will exercise the democratic right to vote and choose their leaders.  Democracy is about participation and inclusiveness.  Every vote counts.

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