13 February 2003
U.S. Supports Use of Political Process to Determine Kosovo Status
(Boucher on U.N. Resolution 1244; cautions against "potentially
de-stabilizing" actions) (270)
The United States strongly supports U.N. Security Council Resolution
1244, which mandates a political process for determining Kosovo's
future status, and the importance of achieving "key democratic goals"
in preparation for status discussions, said State Department Spokesman
Richard Boucher.
He also cautioned against statements or actions by authorities in
Belgrade that could be "unhelpful and potentially de-stabilizing,"
Following is his statement:
(begin text)
U.S. Department of State
Office of the Spokesman
February 12, 2003
Statement by Richard Boucher, Spokesman
KOSOVO'S FINAL STATUS
The United States is concerned by recent developments in Serbia and
Montenegro and in Kosovo regarding the timing and nature of decisions
on Kosovo's future status. United Nations Security Council Resolution
1244 mandates a political process for determining Kosovo's future
status. The United States strongly reiterates its support for
Resolution 1244 and for this process. We also share the view of
Michael Steiner, the Special Representative of the Secretary General,
that the best and only acceptable way to prepare for discussions
concerning Kosovo's future status is through the achievement of key
democratic goals -- a process called "standards before status." We
believe that statements or actions by the authorities in Belgrade or
on behalf of Kosovo parties or institutions which attempt to force the
pace of the future status process or to re-interpret the provisions of
Resolution 1244 are unhelpful and potentially de-stabilizing. We urge
all concerned to continue to work with the international community to
create the foundation for a democratic Kosovo.
(end text)
(Distributed by the Office of International Information Programs, U.S.
Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)
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