U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman

For Immediate Release                                                                   
January 10, 2008
Media Note

Kosovo:  New Government Coalition

Under Secretary of State R. Nicholas Burns congratulated Kosovar President Fatmir Sejdiu Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) and Prime Minister Hashim Thaci from the Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) today on the formation of a government coalition.   Under Secretary Burns offered the United States’ full support for the earliest possible resolution to Kosovo’s final status and encouraged the leaders to work peacefully and responsibly as they implement a status settlement. 

Under Secretary Burns complimented both leaders on their statements in support of an inclusive Kosovo where the Serb population and other minorities will be welcome.  He also emphasized the strong commitment of the U.S. to assist the new Kosovar leadership to face the many challenges ahead.

The United States believes prompt implementation of the Ahtisaari plan, including its recommendation of supervised independence for Kosovo and measures to protect Kosovo's minorities, will promote regional stability and enable both Serbia and Kosovo to move forward on the path towards greater cooperation with NATO and the European Union.