Statement

by NATO Secretary General on the death of President Rugova

  • 21 Jan. 2006 -
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  • Press Release (2006) 003
  • Issued on 21 Jan. 2006
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  • Last updated: 31 Jul. 2012 10:22

On behalf of the NATO Alliance, I wish to express my profound condolences at the death of President Ibrahim Rugova of Kosovo after his long illness.

b050513as 13th May 2005 Visit of the North Atlantic Council to Kosovo Left to right: NATO Secretary General, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer meets President Ibrahim Rugova of Kosovo.

President Rugova will be remembered as a man committed to the idea of a fully democratic, peaceful and multi-ethnic Kosovo. Mr. Rugova’s opposition to violence, including during the difficult years that beset the Former Yugoslavia, was both brave and remarkable.

Until the very end, he served the people of Kosovo with conviction. He played a key role in helping Kosovo down the long and often painful road towards reconciliation, lasting peace and stability. I am confident that his example will continue to guide the people of Kosovo at this important time, and into the future.