He was presenting the latest UN Security Council report on the situation in the UN-administered province in the second half of 2005.
Speaking of eight goals which include establishment of democratic institutions, protection of minorities and creation of a functioning market economy, Annan called on Kosovo leaders to renew efforts so as to provide for real, accelerated and sustainable development in the implementation of standards.
The secretary-general pointed to an increasing number of serious incidents, including those in which the targets were Kosovo Serbs, and called on the province's leaders to cooperate with the UN Mission in Kosovo so that perpetrators could be brought to justice.
Annan also called on Serbia's authorities to urge Kosovo Serb leaders to participate in the work of Kosovo institutions. Noting that the return of Serb refugees to Kosovo was very low, he asked for supporting those wishing to return.
In the report Annan welcomed the Security Council's decision on the start of negotiations on Kosovo's final status but cautioned that much more needed to be done in this respect. He also underlined the need for strong political engagement on the part of the international community.