Ban welcomes successful conduct of Kosovo assembly elections

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the successful conduct of assembly elections in Kosovo and called on authorities to remain committed to strengthening democracy, the rule of law and the protection of human rights of all living there.

A statement issued by Mr. Ban’s spokesperson today says the Secretary-General is encouraged by the preliminary positive reports from local and international observers as well as the United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) of the smooth and orderly conduct of the 8 June elections and broad public participation throughout Kosovo.

“He commends Kosovo’s authorities and population for this achievement,” says the statement.

“The Secretary-General calls on the Kosovo authorities to remain committed to strengthening democracy, the rule of law and the protection of human rights of all in Kosovo,” it adds.

“He looks forward to a renewed high-level engagement by Belgrade and Pristina in the European Union-facilitated dialogue, once the new leadership is in place in Pristina. The United Nations and UNMIK will continue to support this important engagement.”