Rugova, who returned from Germany on Saturday, said he was diagnosed with localised lung cancer and prescribed intensive therapy. He added the physicians concluded his condition was improving and that they were optimistic about a quick treatment.
"With God's help I will win this battle too and continue working... on the recognition of Kosovo," he said.
Reports that Rugova's condition is grave have caused concern regarding his possible successor given that negotiations on the future status of the UN-administered province in southern Serbia are expected to start in a few weeks.