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Remarks by Pieter Feith, EU Special Representative

Final conference of the Youth Month 2008 - “Our Destination EU”

Grand Hotel, Pristina – 14 October 2008

Deputy Prime Minister, Deputy Minister of Culture, Mayor Rexhepi, Distinguished students, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It gives me great pleasure to be present here today. This conference is the culmination of a month of exciting activity and competition all in the context of the European Union. I am sure that the events in which you students have participated have forged new bonds of friendship and respect while learning more about Kosovo’s European future. Representing the youth of Kosovo you have a tremendously important role in this endeavor.

The whole of the Western Balkans can be part of the European Union. This is the reason why the 27 governments of the EU Member States have appointed me the EU’s Special Representative for Kosovo. The EU’s wants stability and a higher standard of living for Kosovo and the rest of the region. The way to get there is to respect the principles that the EU is based on: Human Rights and minority rights, functioning market economy and good relationships with your neighbouring countries. That will eventually lead to membership in the EU. Our strength lies in working together and showing solidarity.  Nevertheless, we respect and cherish each country’s own individual characteristics. It is up to you to decide if you want to be a part of this project. If you share our vision: to be united in diversity.

During the course of September you have participated in various activities -- essay and painting competitions, EU quizzes, sport events, youth debates and theatre performances. You have displayed your various talents and maybe you discovered new ones. You also brought much pride to the municipalities of which you are residents.  In doing so, you have reflected the values that are so essential on your path towards the EU.  These values include asking thoughtful questions, cooperating with people from different backgrounds, displaying mutual respect and tolerance and using your creative talents and imagination to express your hopes for the future. These are all important building blocks for a bright and secure tomorrow and for understanding that nothing is impossible to achieve once you can imagine it and are determined to realize your dreams.

The future of Kosovo belongs to you, the youth, and it will be your ideas and visions that will shape the world that you will inherit. You have certainly inspired us with your enthusiasm and dedication. The quality of your creative works, your knowledge and your understanding of essential European values is indeed commendable.

My colleagues who have participated in events of the past month have enjoyed this opportunity to share with you our role here in Kosovo, and our readiness to encourage and support you. As the EU Special Representative in Kosovo I am indeed encouraged by the desire that the youth of Kosovo have displayed in their quest for a European future. It makes us, your partners here, even more determined to work harder to help you achieve your goals.

Finally, I would like to commend the Ministry of Culture for arranging these events and congratulate all participants who gave their best efforts. To all the winners of the various competitions who will receive their awards today, well done! 

Thank you.