Mr Xavier Bout de Marnhac of France, was today appointed Head of Mission of the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo, EULEX Kosovo.

The decision was taken by the European Union Political and Security Committee on a recommendation by the EU High Representative of the Union for the Foreign and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton.

Mr Bout de Marnhac, who will succeed Mr Yves de Kermabon, will take up his duties on 15 October 2010. The appointment is for one year renewable.

On this occasion the EU High Representative of the Union for the Foreign and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, made the following statement;

"Mr Xavier Bout de Marnhac has the leadership needed to conduct a large rule of law operation in a complex environment. His experience in crisis management and his knowledge about the situation on the ground constitutes the appropriate background to lead EULEX through the next period in which the mission will be facing considerable challenges while continuing to deliver on the core of its mandate throughout Kosovo. I look forward to working with Mr Bout de Marnhac and in the accomplishment of his tasks he will have my full support".