Friday, December 03, 2004

Rugova's Inaugural Speech

[Ibrahim Rugova, addressing Kosovo assembly] Honourable Chairman Daci, Honourable deputies of the Kosova [Kosovo] Assembly, I would like to thank you for the trust you have given to me and for enabling me to lead my dear country Kosova for another term in the capacity of president.

Honourable deputies,

I solemnly declare that I will protect and safeguard the territorial integrity of our country, Kosova, and the people's unity. I will be committed to working for the economic and democratic development, stability, prosperity, and the well-being of all citizens.

I will work for expeditious recognition of the independence of Kosova and Kosova's integration into the EU and the NATO and the strengthening of the permanent friendship with the United States of America.

Ladies and gentlemen,

From this inaugural solemn session of the Kosova Assembly, allow me to thank [US] President Bush, [UK] Prime Minister Blair, [French] President Chirac, [German] Chancellor Schroeder, [Italian] Prime Minister Berlusconi, and [UN] Secretary-General Annan for supporting Kosova.

As always, we convey warm greetings to Pope John Paul II, who continually cares for Kosova.

God bless you! God bless Kosova!

Thank you!

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