American Ambassador Jeff Hovenier, at the ceremony marking the 34th anniversary of the visit by American senators led by Bob Dole in Pristina, today recalled his contributions and efforts for Kosovo in 1999, when Slobodan Milošević’s regime was carrying out ethnic cleansing in Kosovo.
Hovenier stated that Dole wanted not only words but also action.
“He demanded actions from the American government, from the government’s partners, and especially from himself.”
He mentioned that Dole came to Kosovo 34 years ago for “the issue of the denial of basic human rights by Milosevic’s regime, which was not well known or understood by the international community.”
“Senator Dole knew that something was wrong here, and he wanted to know more.”
Hovenier said that Dole organized the senators’ visit to see the situation firsthand.
“He [Dole] wanted everyone on this planet to enjoy these rights, including the people of Kosovo. His commitment was unwavering for democracy, human dignity, and his willingness to stand up for everyone whose rights were being denied.”
Hovenier added that Dole worked to ensure that the voices of the people of Kosovo were heard and that their rights were respected.
“His efforts were absolutely essential in garnering international support to respond directly to the brutal regime of Milošević and the ethnic cleansing campaign.”
