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Assemblée parlementaire de l'OTAN
HomeMEDIA RESOURCES200522 April 2005 – Members of Defence and Security Committee visit FYR Macedonia and Kosovo
22 April 2005 – Members of Defence and Security Committee visit FYR Macedonia and Kosovo
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The Subcommittee on Future Security and Defence Capabilities visited FYR Macedonia and Kosovo from March 17-22, meeting with leading political and military figures, representatives of non-governmental organizations and local elected officials. The delegation was impressed by the progress of FYR Macedonia in building a secure environment for its citizens and establishing a small but effective military capable of contributing to NATO operations. Despite this progress, significant problems remain, particularly a lack of economic growth that is desperately needed to reduce the high unemployment rate and the social and political tensions that it generates. Overall the delegation left with a positive impression of the Government of Macedonia’s efforts to build a multi-ethnic peaceful society and its prospects for eventual membership in both NATO and the European Union. |
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The delegation left Kosovo with a far less optimistic outlook. On the one hand, it is clear that NATO and its partners have brought stability and prevented most outbreaks of violence since 1999. Their presence is welcomed by the vast majority of the population and they enjoy the confidence of the local leadership. On the other hand, the physical reconstruction of country is moving very slowly. Six years after coming under UN administration, much of Kosovo lacks waste water treatment, clean running water, paved roads and consistent electricity. The population is becoming increasingly frustrated with the situation and economic development is impossible as long as the basic infrastructure remains in such dire condition. Thus, although NATO forces continue to do an excellent job in providing a blanket of security under which reconstruction, reconciliation, and development can take place, the international community must redouble its efforts to take advantage of this stability before the patience of the local community runs out. |
