    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [February 23, 1999]
    [Pages 240-241]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Kosovo Peace Talks
    February 23, 1999

        The peace talks in Rambouillet, France, are a significant step
    forward in the search for a fair and lasting peace in Kosovo. In the
    last three weeks, the negotiations have produced more progress than we
    have seen in the decade since Kosovo's autonomy was stripped away by the
    Government in Belgrade.
        By agreeing in principle to a strong plan that would provide
    substantial self-government for the people of Kosovo, the negotiators on
    the

    [[Page 241]]

    Albanian side have shown courage and leadership. The agreement by the
    Serb side to substantial autonomy for Kosovo also represents an
    important, but incomplete, recognition that only by allowing the people
    in Kosovo control over their day-to-day lives can there be a lasting
    peace.
        The Kosovar negotiators have asked for time to consult with their
    constituents before formally signing the peace plan. I believe that the
    Kosovar Albanian people will strongly support what their negotiators
    have done, because the agreement represents the opportunity for a better
    life after years of repression and fear. The Serbs should be prepared to
    return to the negotiations on March 15 with a commitment to sign the
    full agreement--including the indispensable provisions on the withdrawal
    of most Serb security forces from Kosovo and the deployment of a NATO-
    led peace implementation force.
        In the meantime, it is imperative that all sides avoid provocations
    that would imperil this progress. NATO Secretary General Javier
    Solana retains the authority given to him by
    the NATO Council to act if necessary.
        I want to thank Secretary Albright
    and all her negotiators for their tireless efforts that led to hopeful
    developments, and commend British Foreign Secretary Robin Cook and French Foreign Minister Hubert Vedrine, the cochairs of Rambouillet, for their leadership.