US official delivers message to Kosovo politicians

US Deputy Defence Secretary Robert Karem has delivered support messages to Kosovo on the 10th anniversary of independence.

He has spoken at the reception that President Hashim Thaci organised for the holiday, while demanding that crime and corruption be fought.

I want to underline the close co-operation between our states and we will be close to you in combating challenges, strengthening the economy and also increasing the capacities of your armed forces that will care for the safety of your citizens. But, I encourage Kosovo citizens and authorities to fight corruption and organised crime and implement rule of law and also refrain from statements that could encourage violence”, Karem said.

Karemi has added that Kosovo should also play an important role in relations with neighbouring states, citing the border issue with Montenegro.

“The decisions also imply ratification of the demarcation agreement with Montenegro, a NATO member. It also means reaching the comprehensive agreement on normalising relations with Serbia, because besides dialogue, there is no other way. Kosovo's future is as an integrated member in Euro-Atlantic values”, he said.