Unmik : We are committed to the return of all displaced

Zannier was visiting Kosovska Mitrovica, where, in the suburb of Brdjani, tensions are high between local Serbs and Albanians over the reconstruction of houses and the return of displaced persons to their homes.

Local Serbs are protesting at the reconstruction of Albanian houses, claiming that no reciprocal measures have been permitted for the reconstruction of Serb houses in southern Kosovska Mitrovica.

The UNMIK chief, who met with southern Kosovska Mitrovica Municipal President Bajram Rexhepi, said that he would be discussing security with EULEX officials in order to prevent possible provocations and incidents.

"From the UN's point of view, the right of displaced persons to return to their property is key. This is the right of all communities and we want that right to be respected. But, certain elements must be taken into account. One of these is security. We're concerned for the security of people who want to return to their homes, so we have to speak with all the relevant partners to ensure that they return to conditions that aren't a threat to security," he stressed.

Rexhepi said that there was no need to seek a permit to clear debris around houses owned by Albanians in the immediate vicinity of the first Serb houses in Brdjani. He would not say how work would continue.

"I can't give any time frames. Like for the clearance, work will only be able to continue if EULEX and KFOR resolve security issues. Zannier will speak with EULEX and KFOR representatives to enable the owners to return to their properties as soon as possible," said the municipal president.