Bucharest, 9 October 2011 - DR KARL A. LAMERS, PRESIDENT OF THE NATO PA, AND MARKO DJURISIC, HEAD OF THE SERBIAN DELEGATION DISCUSS KOSOVO SITUATION

"We call for a political and peaceful settlement of problems, as the best way of reaching solutions that will respect the equal rights of all citizens. We urge all sides to remain committed to the search for a compromise solution, which meets the interests of all parties involved. We believe that dialogue is the only way to reach a constructive and long-term solution to all outstanding issues.

We therefore urge all sides to avoid unilateral actions and inflammatory statements, which could cause negative effects for the already fragile situation in the region, and are incompatible with efforts to find a mutually acceptable solution. We strongly condemn any resort to violence, and instead call for consultations, not confrontations. No one will benefit from returning to the tensions."

Dr Lamers and Mr Djurisic recalled the important role that KFOR continues to play, in accordance with the mandate given by UN Security Council Resolution 1244, in maintaining a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all residents regardless of ethnicity.  They recognized that, in an environment that remains tense, it is important for all security actors to continue to act carefully and impartially, and to show maximum restraint, while upholding their legitimate right to self-defence.

"We believe that the continuation of the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue is the only way to address the problems that all Kosovo residents face."