The Secretary-General welcomes the landmark agreement between Belgrade and Pristina initialed today in Brussels under the auspices of the E.U. High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton.  

The Secretary-General congratulates and commends the leaders from both sides for their steadfast determination and hopes that the agreement will bring about a brighter future and lasting stability to the region.  He also congratulates Lady Ashton for her strong efforts and her successful personal role in helping to bring about this agreement.

The Secretary-General strongly encourages the parties to conclude this historic process and take concrete measures for a faithful implementation of the agreement.  The United Nations stands ready to assist the parties in this endeavour.