18 Feb 2008
NATO Press Release (2008)025
NAC Statement after Kosovo’s declaration of
independence
Following Kosovo’s declaration of
independence yesterday, NATO reaffirms that KFOR shall remain in Kosovo on the
basis of UNSCR 1244 , as agreed by Foreign Ministers in December 2007, unless
the UN Security Council decides
otherwise.
NATO’s responsibility and capability to ensure a safe and secure
environment in Kosovo remain unchanged. KFOR will continue to execute this
mandate in an impartial manner in accordance with its Operational Plan. NATO
will respond resolutely to any attempts to disrupt the safety and security of
the population of Kosovo.
NATO continues to attach great importance to the implementation of
standards in Kosovo, especially regarding the rule of law, the protection of
ethnic minorities and communities, as well as the protection of historical and
religious sites.
NATO’s objective is to continue helping in the
development of a stable, democratic, multi-ethnic and peaceful Kosovo. As
Foreign Ministers also agreed in December 2007, NATO will continue to cooperate
closely with the population of Kosovo, the United Nations, the European Union
and other international actors wherever appropriate.