Kosovo premier says slow return of displaced affecting standards fulfilment

BBCM, Jun 25, 2005, 19:00 GMT

Excerpt from report in English by independent internet news agency KosovaLive

Prishtina [Pristina], 24 June: UNMIK [UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo] chief Soeren Jessen-Petersen and Prime Minister Bajram Kosumi said today that the return of displaced persons, especially Serbs, must be set as a priority on Kosova's [Kosovo] political agenda.

"The number of returnees is very small," Jessen-Petersen said. He said that the government and various international institutions have taken positive steps towards the possibility of a safe return and the creation of better living conditions. [Passage omitted]

Kosumi acknowledged that the slow pace of returns is affecting progress in the implementation of standards.

"The return of displaced persons is one of the most difficult standards to be accomplished. But we will do everything in our power to create the conditions for return to their homes," Kosumi said.

The government has promised to make additional efforts for a faster rate of return during this very important time for the future of Kosova. [Passage omitted]

Source: KosovaLive web site, Pristina, in English 24 Jun 05