By Country / Montenegro

Rugova Makes Rare Public Appearance

December 23, 2005

The president is thought to be critically ill (file photo) (CTK)

23 December 2005 -- Kosovar President Ibrahim Rugova, who is battling lung cancer, made a rare public appearance today appearance today after meeting with Prime Minister Bajram Kosumi.

The 61-year-old Rugova recently underwent a series of tests that sparked rumors that he is in critical condition.

Rugova told reporters that Kosovo's independence from Serbia is the main objective in 2006. UN-mediated talks on Kosovo's future status are expected to begin formally in January.

Kosovo is a Serb province under UN administration. Most Kosovo Albanians want independence for the province, while Belgrade says it must remain part of Serbia.

(AFP)