We welcome that the local elections of 15 November 2009 in Kosovo were held in a peaceful and calm manner. We congratulate the people of Kosovo for conducting free, fair and democratic elections.

These elections in Kosovo were of particular importance because they were the first elections to be held in this country since its declaration of independence.

We hope that these elections will contribute to support the independence of Kosovo and its objective aimed at integrating with the Euro-Atlantic structures.

Turkey will continue supporting Kosovo along its path of democracy, stability and development.