OSCE Kosovo Mission promotes interactive discussion on security issues

PRISTINA, 3 February 2007 - Kosovo Serbs, just like all of the people of Kosovo, should enjoy the same kind of security and not be harmed in any way, said participants at an OSCE-organized meeting that took place in Gracanica/Gracanice today.

"This event is part of a broader outreach initiative by the OSCE Mission in Kosovo that intends to make sure local and international leaders address the concerns of Kosovo's population on a number of issues," said Jens Modvig, the Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission.

The Commander of the Kosovo Forces (COMKFOR), the Minister of Justice, the Kosovo Police Commissioner, and the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, as well as representatives of Kosovo Serbs took part in the event. They discussed security issues and the role of their respective institutions in guaranteeing a safe environment for all people living in Kosovo.

"Police needs trust and confidence on both sides and I have trust and confidence in you," said Stephen Curtis, Kosovo Police Commissioner.

COMKFOR Lieutenant General Roland Kather added: "KFOR is in Kosovo for everybody, for all people regardless of ethnicity, religion or gender." 

He also called on Kosovo Serbs to establish a dialogue with KFOR as did Dejan Jankovic, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, who emphasized the need for mutual co-operation between local people and Kosovo authorities: "Our door is open at any time for all your concerns. If you support us, we will be able to support you."

Justice Minister, Jonuz Salihaj, said the main priority of the Government was to strengthen the rule of law, adding: "We are making renewed efforts in increasing our activities in witness protection."

Kosovo Serbs representatives thanked the organizers of the meeting, saying that this was the first time the international community showed respect for them.

Similar meetings will be held in the coming months throughout Kosovo.