The first challenge we face is to manage our military engagements in the Balkans. This obviously doesn't come as a surprise to anyone here. After more than four years in Bosnia, and with the very demanding situation we face in Kosovo, I'm sure everyone in this room understands that this will be a long term engagement. I believe, however, that the efforts of the international community in the Balkans are already showing very clear results, and are demonstrating that patient engagement can work. The security environment has improved dramatically.
Refugees continue to return.
War criminals are being caught, and turned over to The Hague. This progress in Bosnia-Herzegovina stands as testament to the potential of the international efforts to help Kosovo rebuild. We are under no illusions about the time and the effort this process will require. We should not expect to create a Switzerland there in just a few months. Despite Kosovo's difficult history, however, there are already signs of hope.