SG/SM/8145
4 March 2002

SECRETARY-GENERAL PLEASED BY KOSOVO
AGREEMENT ON FORMATION OF GOVERNMENT

NEW YORK, 1 March (UN Headquarters) -- The following statement by Secretary-General Kofi Annan was issued 28 February in Berlin:

I learned of the agreement reached on a government in Kosovo this morning from my representative in Kosovo, Michael Steiner.

After more than three months of political stalemate, this is good news for Kosovo.

I am glad that the political leaders appear to have put their difficulties behind them. I also appreciate the hard work of Michael Steiner, who having just arrived in Pristina has facilitated this crucial agreement.

Building a coalition such as this takes courage. Now, after endorsement by the Kosovo Assembly, the real work will begin.

I am very pleased with the nominations of Dr. Ibrahim Rugova as President of Kosovo and Dr. Bajram Rexhepi as Prime Minister. I know that both are committed to building a positive future for all of Kosovo, and both can count on my support.

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