Remarks of the U.S. Ambassador to Kosovo, Mr. Christopher Dell upon presenting his credentials to the President of Kosovo, Fatmir Sejdiu

(as prepared) August 24, 2009

President Fatmir Sejdiu and Ambassador Christopher Dell greet each other at the credentialing ceremony.

Mr. President, first, I would like to say what an honor it was to present my credentials to you today and what an honor it is to have been sent by President Obama to represent him and the United States as Ambassador to the Republic of Kosovo.  I look forward to working with you, with the Prime Minister and the Government and Parliament, as well as the people of Kosovo and our international partners during my time here.

As you know, this is the second time I have been asked to lead America’s diplomatic mission in Kosovo.  Many Kosovars have already welcomed me “home,” and I am truly delighted to be coming home again after eight years.

Of course, much has changed in that time and everywhere I look I see signs of great progress.

The beginning of any new diplomatic mission is always a moment filled with optimism, and hope for progress and positive change.  That’s especially true in this case, as I see for myself how far Kosovo has come.  I am sure that Kosovo's leaders and citizens have the energy and imagination to continue that progress.  I want to assure you, Mr. President, that the United States is, and will remain, your firm partner in this great endeavor.

The foundation of America’s policy towards Kosovo is simple and clear:  First, the independence of the Republic of Kosovo is irreversible, and U.S. support for Kosovo's independence is unflinching.  Second, we remain committed to our joint project of building a democratic, law-abiding, multi-ethnic, tolerant and prosperous country that will become a full member of the Trans-Atlantic and European family. 

I see five major tasks ahead to further that project:  to continue building the institutions of Kosovo’s government and society; to ensure that Kosovo remains the home of all its diverse peoples and that they all join in the process of building Europe’s newest democratic country; to further the development of the country’s economy so that all its citizens can enjoy the benefits of prosperity; to ensure that the society and government are firmly grounded in the rule of law – without which democracy cannot flourish; and finally, with the support of our European partners, to cement progress in all these areas through the realization of Kosovo’s European future.

These are all ambitious goals.  None can be achieved without lots of hard work, and I’ve been sent here to roll up my sleeves and support you as you tackle this agenda.  I do so confident that we will build not only on the historically strong bilateral relations between our countries, but also on the values and traditions which unite us.  In its 230 year history the United States has known triumph and failure.  It has witnessed progress and setbacks.  But it has never wavered in the belief that we can build a better future by honoring the principles on which our country was founded, and just last November the election of President Obama gave clear proof that our story is still unfolding.  This faith in a better tomorrow, it seems to me, is what binds our two peoples, and I give you my commitment today, Mr. President, to represent my country and to work with yours in that spirit. 

Thank you.