Javier Solana, the High Representative for the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, has praised EULEX for its work in the rule of law area in Kosovo.

On a visit to Pristina, he said that EULEX was the most important civilian mission ever deployed by the European Union.

“It is a very impressive mission that will be remembered, for the change that it will help to produce,” addressing EULEX staff at the mission’s headquarters.

EULEX comprises of around 2,500 staff working in the areas of the judiciary, police and customs. The main aim is to monitor, mentor and advise the local authorities whilst retaining some executive powers. The mission became fully operational in April this year.

“Enormous challenges lie ahead but I feel very optimistic,” said Solana.

The EU will always help and cooperate with you through all the EU presences in Kosovo and we do this for the people here. We want to see the region moving closer and closer to the EU,” said Solana.

He also met the President Fatmir Sejdiu, the Prime Minister, Hashim Thaci and the EU Special Representative in Kosovo, Peter Feith.

Javier Solana is on a 3-day trip to Belgrade, Skopje, Pristina and Kotor in Montenegro for discussions about the region’s progress towards further EU integration.