British Foreign Minister David Miliband pledged Wednesday the international community would help Kosovo in its transition to democracy after its declaration of independence during a special visit to the newlyborn nation.

 

"I feel very privileged to visit the independent Kosovo, the newest country in the world," said Miliband in an emotional tone.

"The international community needs to be with you every step on the way," Miliband told reporters after meeting Kosovo leaders in the capital Prishtina.

"The next step is full deployment of EULEX (the EU's rule of law mission) throughout the territory of the Republic of Kosovo in order to protect the citizens of Kosovo and that will happen," he said.

Stressing his strong support for Kosovo's sovereign territory and Ahtisaari Plan, Miliband added that "the sovereignty over the territory of the Republic of Kosovo belongs to the Government of Kosovo and one can force Prishtina to accept any eventual compromises."

 EULEX will be playing an non-arbitrary role, mainly assisting and advising local authorities during the transitional process when the newlyborn nation readies to join the European Union family.

"British Government has been supporting strongly your difficult path to achieve the independence of Kosovo and we will stand by you as your nation moves toward prosperity and integration into the European Union," said British Foreign Minister.

During his address to the Parliament of the Republic of Kosovo, Miliband said, "Your Constitution clearly reveals that all communities should live together in the newest country. The fact that your Parliament is home to deputies other than Albanian is an indication of this fact.”

While Foreign Minister Miliband acknowledged that Kosovo faces great responsibilities and challenges in building its future, he revealed Kosovo is not alone.

“You are not alone. The international community is here to help you. EULEX will be functional all over Kosovo in order to build a good future for Kosovo’s citizens,” he pledged.

Speaking of economy, Miliband said that "Great Britain will assist Kosovo to develop a strong economy and open market that produces jobs."

British Foreign Minister said that Kosovo has a bright future within the European Union " Certainly, the Republic of Kosovo has its seat in the European Union family," concluded British Foreign Minister David Miliband.

Great Britain has been among the first countries to recognize Kosovo as an independent and sovereign country. More than 50 states, including the United States, Japan, Canada, Turkey and most and most EU nations, totaling two-thirds of world's GDP, have so far recognized the independence of the Republic of Kosovo, and there are many other countries in the process to announce the recognition.