UN General Assembly
2000

has achieved praiseworthy results. Thanks must be given to all those who have made this possible in spite of enormous difficulties, especially the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, the United Nations staff and the Kosovo Force soldiers, the many international organizations there on the ground and the non-governmental organizations. The first democratic municipal elections in Kosovo, to be held in a few weeks' time, will constitute a major step in the implementation of resolution 1244 (1999). I would forcefully reiterate that the international community will not allow unacceptable acts of violence, whatever their motivation, to cause the democratic electoral process under way to fail. We will not let extremists from whatever faction sabotage the work accomplished over the past year under the auspices of the United Nations. The European Union considers the status quo in Cyprus unacceptable, and it supports the efforts of the Secretary-General to reach a negotiated, comprehensive, fair and lasting settlement consistent with relevant Security Council resolutions. It reiterates its commitment to stability and prosperity throughout the Mediterranean region. With talks beginning right