28 February 2012, Pristina

The Head of EULEX Xavier de Marnhac has visited Gates 1 and 31 today (28 February). The purpose of his visit was to assess the conditions on the ground, observe progress in improving facilities, and to meet with Mission staff. De Marnhac spoke with EULEX, KFOR, and Kosovo personnel present at the Gates to hear their views and thank them for their personal contributions.

“As the traffic returns to the Gates - and we are all glad about that - I just wanted to see for myself how things are developing and how our people are working to improve the situation here,” said the EULEX Head of Mission.

EULEX continues to implement its mandate and support agreements reached in the EU-facilitated Dialogue. However, while the situation has improved recently, the Mission still lacks permanent and unconditional freedom of access in the north. This is a pre-condition for the successful implementation of the EULEX mandate, which will enhance the rule of law and ensuring the well-being of people throughout Kosovo.