Death of the president of Kosovo Ibrahim Rugova
Berne, 21.1.2006 - Switzerland notes with deep sadness the death of the president of Kosovo, Ibrahim Rugova. The Swiss Confederation conveys its sincere condolences to the government and the people of Kosovo. Elected on 4 March 2002 as president of Kosovo, Ibrahim Rugova remains a great historic figure in the Western Balkans. The philosopher, writer, political figure and, above all, the statesman succeeded to embody the aspirations of the people of Kosovo while exercising a moderating influence in a regional context marked by the consequence of a dramatic history. The establishment of conditions which allowed the opening of negotiations on the future status of Kosovo under the auspices of the United Nations were to a large extent due to him. Switzerland hopes that the premature demise of Mr Rugova will not impede a crucial process for the stability of the entire region.