17 Feb. 2008
As the NATO Secretary General has said earlier today, I can assure the people of Kosovo that KFOR’s responsibility to ensure security and stability for all communities throughout the territory of Kosovo remains unchanged.
The existing NATO Operational Plan and the Military Technical Agreement between KFOR and the Republic of Serbia from June 1999 remain in effect. KFOR, working in close cooperation with UNMIK and the police, will continue to execute its mission impartially.
In this sensitive period, any public demonstration must be conducted in an orderly and peaceful manner. It is essential that people refrain from acting in a provocative manner, and not react to provocation. This is a moment in which all in Kosovo have an interest in demonstrating moderation and political maturity.
KFOR soldiers will continue to carry out their mission in an open and professional manner, but we are prepared to act firmly and with determination.
Violence will not be tolerated.
