The local elections in Kosovo in October and the general elections in Bosnia-Hercegovina in November. There is no better instrument than free and fair elections. Clearly, not everyone chooses to participate in this process. But everyone should have the possibility to do so. For this reason the OSCE and the Chairperson in Office, the Austrian Foreign Minister Ms. Benita Ferrero-Waldner will continue to support all efforts to create an environment which enables the participation of all citizens in this process.
Democracy is the cornerstone for a peaceful future in the Balkans.
But there must also be an end to ethnic tension, a sustainable economic recovery, the safe return of refugees and a regional solution with a clear European perspective. Considering the complexity of the tasks and the differences in mandates and structures of the missions, it is not surprising that initial difficulties arose. Today, however, the common achievements demonstrate that sound cooperation can benefit both organizations, alleviating the burden and responsibilities of each Organization.