Delawi: We believe that Government will form without our help

Rel: Mr. Delaway, what have you discussed with political leaders last week as to the issue of forming new institutions?

Ambassador Delaway: I've met many political leaders and I'll meet some more days. That's what diplomats do. We talk to people and we try to figure out what's going on so that we can follow these to our governments. I talked about my expectations, the U.S. government expectations of the coming government of whoever is in that government. These are the things I've been talking about in recent years: advancing rule of law, fighting corruption, creating good conditions for economic growth and foreign and local investment in Kosovo, preserving Kosovo's multiethnic character, and trying to improve life for all Kosovo citizens. These are the general topics I work for.

Rel: But how should the new government be formed?

Ambassador Delaway: First, it (government) must be formed under the Constitution and laws of Kosovo and must be formed, I hope, in a relatively close future. There are many problems Kosovo is facing and needs to have a full government chosen to address these problems. I can tell you that there's a lot of media reports that me, or Quintus, or anyone, will find out who's in Government and that's not true. It is up to Kosovo's elected representatives to determine who will be in Government, and I stand by it. We believe Kosovo institutions will respect the rules, respect the Constitution and procedures in order to make Government without our help.

Rel: What are your massages for leaders and political parties regarding negotiations for the new Government?

Ambassador Delaway: For me it is clear that Kosovo is at the turning point. With the new government expected to come Kosovo citizens have the opportunity to firmly put Kosovo on the road to European integration. This is the time for Kosovo to make appropriate decisions regarding fighting corruption, economic growth, and co-operation with neighbours. The world will not stay waiting for Kosovo until it is summed up. The world is moving, so Kosovo has to move. To achieve its future in the heart of Europe, as I say consistently, Kosovo needs to move, make the right decisions, promote economic development and must deal with rule of the rule of law, corruption-related issues, and must really work on these issues right now.

Rel: What could be the consequences in the event of an eventual crisis over the formation of the new government?

Ambassador Delaway: The first thing they teach you at diplomacy school is not to answer hypothetical questions. Now, that's a hypothetical question. I believe Kosovo institutions will do the right thing. MPs from the recently elected Parliament will find a way to form Government and make 61 or more votes. I believe everything will work.