Gates tours Kosovo post

[unhappycamper]

Gates tours Kosovo post
By Jeff Schogol, Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Wednesday, October 8, 2008

PRISTINA, Kosovo — Defense Secretary Robert Gates made an unannounced visit to Kosovo on Tuesday to assure U.S. troops there that they are "neither forgotten nor unappreciated."

Tuesday’s visit marked the first time a defense secretary has visited the region in seven years. He is also the first Cabinet official to visit the country since it declared its independence earlier this year.

About 1,500 U.S. troops, mostly from the National Guard, are on a peacekeeping mission to Kosovo as part of the NATO Kosovo Force, or KFOR.

"Because of the dedication and professionalism of our troops, KFOR remains the most respected and trusted institution in Kosovo, and it has helped transform a once troubled region into a peaceful place where all citizens have the opportunity to live in freedom," Gates told reporters at a news conference.

While U.S. troops’ mission in Kosovo is "vital," the country also needs more economic development and assistance, Gates said.


Rest of article at: http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=57948