NATO Secretary General visits Kosovo

During the visit, the Secretary General also exchanged views with key representatives of the international community in Kosovo and with local political leaders. He met with Mr. Slobodan Petrovic, leader of the Autonomous Liberal Party – SLS, as well as with the mayor of Mitrovica, Mr. Bajram Rexhepi.

In his meetings, the Secretary General reiterated that KFOR will remain in Kosovo as long as necessary to help maintain a safe and secure environment and that the Alliance’s commitment to Kosovo remains firm.

The Secretary General welcomed the moderating role that political leaders are playing in Kosovo and encouraged them to continue on this path. “They should continue the good work, as a lot remains to be done, in particular in strengthening the rule of law and in ensuring the well-being of all people in Kosovo, regardless of their ethnic background,” he said.

Speaking with the press, the Secretary General noted: "The fact that I am visiting Kosovo a few days after taking office clearly reflects that it will be a high priority during my mandate. I am impressed by the progress I have seen. NATO's decision to reduce its presence in Kosovo reflects the improvement of the security situation. Nevertheless, each step in the gradual process of reduction will be conditions-based. The move to a deterrence presence will be phased and coordinated,  based on a thorough military and political scrutiny."

He also stressed that his "clear vision is to ensure a Euro-Atlantic perspective for the entire Balkans, including Serbia. This will facilitate stability and prosperity in this part of Europe".

Finally, the Secretary General also visited the Multi National Task Force North Headquarters in Novo Selo.