If they are really serious about a democratic and multi-ethnic Kosovo, political attitudes must change. Otherwise, some members of the international community will raise unpleasant but valid questions about whether Kosovars are ready for substantial autonomy. I would also like to recall the urgency of addressing the question of ethnic Albanian prisoners in Serbia. A speedy release would be an important confidence building measure which would be instrumental in creating the right eliminate for moving ahead on a whole range of other issues. The General Affairs Council next Monday will offer an opportunity to consider the next steps the EU could take to support the process towards a peaceful solution of the crisis.
Violence has no place in the Balkans.
I strongly urge all ethnic Albanian leaders to exercise real leadership and to take immediate and concrete action to stop this senseless violence. We have to use all channels of communication at our disposal to call for restraint and contribute to avoiding a further escalation of the crisis. The continuation of violence will affect the fledging stability of the region as a powerful deterrent to direct foreign investment. All of us can and must contribute to calming the situation and creating the climate for constructive dialogue. The consequences of failure will affect all of us.