Election in Kosovo
Press Statement
Deputy Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
November 5, 2013
The United States commends the Republic of Kosovo for its historic elections on November 3rd . Despite intimidation and violence aimed at blocking the democratic process, the people of northern Kosovo exercised their right to choose legitimate representatives for the first time in years.
We applaud the commitment of both the Governments of Kosovo and Serbia to encourage voter participation and enable the people of Kosovo to democratically choose their leaders. The successful conduct of these elections is an important aspect of the implementation of the EU-facilitated Dialogue agreement to normalize relations between Kosovo and Serbia. We urge all parties to ensure the next phase of the election process is conducted in a peaceful, free and fair manner.
This United States condemns the attacks in Mitrovica North that marred the elections in northern Kosovo and looks to the relevant Kosovo authorities to investigate and bring those responsible to justice. We must not let the violence of a few overshadow the significant achievement this election represents.