Kosovo Forum to improve democracy, OSCE Mission Head says

PRISTINA, 13 May 2005 - The Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Werner Wnendt, today called on the local political leadership to fully utilise the Kosovo Forum which will allow for constructive dialogue on a range of key issues.

"Discussion of all relevant matters and consensus on these issues is imperative to the further democratic development of Kosovo," he said.

"The Forum is a place where all views can be put forward. Fruitful discussion in the Forum can lead to better relations within and less time-consuming decision-making by the institutions."

The consultative process within the forum can contribute to the future of Kosovo, he added.

Since internal dialogue amongst Kosovo's political entities is not enough, continued dialogue with Belgrade is essential for any progress and the OSCE Mission expects that all leaders will promote such relations.

Furthermore, it is important that all political factors are included in discussions on the future of Kosovo.

Ambassador Wnendt, who has met all of Kosovo's political leaders in his first two weeks in office, said he was impressed by the willingness of the leaders to tackle the many difficulties ahead.