    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book I)]
    [January 23, 2006]
    [Page 123]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Death of President Ibrahim Rugova of Kosovo
    January 23, 2006

        I am deeply saddened by the death of President Ibrahim Rugova. For
    many years, President Rugova led the campaign for peace and democracy in
    Kosovo. He was a friend of the United States, and he earned the world's
    respect for his principled stand against violence. Throughout years of
    conflict, he was a voice of reason and moderation that helped Kosovo's
    people lay the groundwork for a peaceful future. The United States
    remains committed to working with the people of Kosovo to build a future
    that is stable, democratic, and prosperous. On behalf of the people of
    the United States, Laura and I extend our
    condolences to President Rugova's family and to the people of Kosovo.