New Commander JFC Naples Visits Kosovo

During the visit, Admiral Fitzgerald received a series of briefings on the current security situation and issues in Kosovo. Admiral Fitzgerald met with Commander Kosovo Force Lieutenant General Xavier de Marnhac, President Fatmir Sejdiu, and the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General of the United Nations Steven Schook, as well as with Kosovo-Serbian Representative Oliver Ivanovic.

"We are prepared to respond to any violent attempts to disrupt the political process during this sensitive period," said Admiral Fitzgerald. "We are entering a very sensitive period with the period immediately following the United Nations deadline. It is a time for all parties to act in a constructive, moderate and responsible manner. You have my assurances that KFOR will remain committed to providing a safe and secure environment in Kosovo for all the people of Kosovo as long as necessary."

Admiral Fitzgerald also had an opportunity to tour the Mitrovica/Mitrovice area and received a briefing from the Commander of Multi-National Task Force North Brigadier General Olivier Jumelet.

"It is always very beneficial as a commander to see things first hand," said Admiral Fitzgerald. "I am very pleased, based on my briefings, on how far Kosovo and the local population have progressed."