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Short-term outlook uncertain, but strong desire of Kosovo''s people for peace, stability is clear, Head of Mission tells Security Council; Council members cite importance of direct dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade, end to violence, `standards before status'' -- Part 2 of 2.

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M2 PRESSWIRE-31 October 2003-UN: Short-term outlook uncertain, but strong desire of Kosovo's people for peace, stability is clear, Head of Mission tells Security Council; Council members cite importance of direct dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade, end to violence, `standards before status' -- Part 2 of 2(C)1994-2003 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

RDATE:10302003

IYA TIDJANI (Cameroon) reiterated his country's support for Mr. Holkeri's efforts in Kosovo. The direct dialogue in Vienna, he said, was a big step forward, even without government participation. Serious participation in that dialogue could make progress on many practical aspects of the Kosovo situation. He agreed with the "standards before status" approach of the international community.

Remarkable progress had been made in Kosovo, but such progress should not end watchfulness on the part of the international community, he said. The recurrence of violence had effects in many areas.

Authorities in Kosovo must work towards conditions that allow a fully multi-ethnic society. The UNMIK must also remain resolved to foster the full return of the rule of law, even though it itself had been the target of violence.

INOCENCIO F. ARIAS (Spain), aligning himself with the statement to be made on behalf of the European Union, said the priorities established for UNMIK remained fully in force. It was essential that the Provisional Institutions and UNMIK worked together to attain the stated objectives.

He reiterated that the Albanian side could not be an interlocutor at the negotiating table and at the same time an opponent on the ground.

While supporting the "standards before status" policy, he said attainment of the benchmarks in that regard was essential. Transfer of responsibilities must be conducted in an orderly way in all spheres, including privatization and management of financial issues. Direct dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina must be maintained, he said, and expressed regret that key interlocutors were missing in the progress.

He asked why the parallel institutions remained still in place and what measures were foreseen for their eradication. He also asked why the number of returnees was so low and what the involvement was of local authorities in that regard.

ALPHA IBRAHIMA SOW (Guinea) said the situation in Kosovo was encouraging, but efforts must be redoubled to implement resolution 1244 (1999). The policy of "standards before status" must be continued. He encouraged authorities to recruit more minorities. Deploring the continued existence of parallel structures, he urged Serbian authorities to cooperate better in that regard. He remained concerned at the ongoing violence, as well as at the situation in prisons and the issue of free movement. He encouraged police cooperation at the regional level and strengthening efforts to combat organized crime.

He said returns were a matter of concern, as well, and welcomed in that regard the robust intervention...

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