Squaring that circle will take a very long time. Democratic change in the FRY will affect the securtiy climate in the region. And the FRY's participation in regional institutions such as the Stability Pact will fill a gaping hole. President Kostunica has already indicated that he expects to see a continued international presence, including NATO troops in Bosnia and Kosovo for the foreseeable future. This is a very positive signal.
Many difficult issues remain to be resolved .
While the immediate crisis may be over, borders continue to be flashpoints of violence. Landmines and unexploded ordnance are deadly reminders of earlier conflicts. The changes in the FRY, although welcome , will not necessarily make our task in Kosovo any easier, especially if extremist Kosovar Albanians see their prospects for independence fading away and KFOR begins to be viewed as an occupying force. NATO has renewed its commitment to establishing a more secure and multi-ethnic Kosovo and to helping implement UN Security Council Resolution 1244 until the final status of Kosovo can be resolved. Now, we must come to terms with the fact that rehabilitation and reconstruction is a process that will require our prolonged and active engagement.