11 May 2006

NATO decision-makers urge compromise in Kosovo Background NATO in Kosovo Kosovo Force (KFOR) Multimedia High resolution photos of the visit Audio of the press conference at Slatina Airport at the end of the visit (.MP3/7688kb) Visiting Kosovo on 11 May, NATO decision-makers urged all parties in the province to prepare for a compromise in the status talks on Kosovo’s future. The North Atlantic Council, the Alliance’s principal decision-making body, travelled to Kosovo to visit KFOR, the NATO-led peacekeeping force, and for talks with local and UN authorities, as well as minority representatives. The visit - aimed at demonstrating NATO’s continuing commitment to Kosovo - comes as UN-led talks on the final status of the province continue. More ‘tooth’ for KFOR Speaking to reporters, NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer stressed that NATO forces are ready to "show any spoilers that they do not have a chance" of derailing the status talks. On 15 May, the NATO-led peacekeeping force is due to complete a restructuring aimed at enhancing its ability to respond to any unrest or threats to peace and stability in the province. Meeting with Serb minority leaders at the 14th century monastery in Decani, Mr. De Hoop Scheffer also emphasized that "NATO is here to protect every single Kosovar be it a majority or a minority." He said that all parties in the process must prepare for compromise and urged minorities to seize the opportunity of the status process to ensure their concerns are fully addressed. The Secretary General also said that the Alliance will support the security provisions of any final agreement on the province’s status.