BELGRADE, 5 April 2012 – Speaking today ahead of International Roma Day on 8 April, the Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, Ambassador Dimitrios Kypreos, offered his congratulations to the Roma community in Serbia and said that the Mission will continue to assist the Serbian Government’s efforts to implement policies in support of Roma integration.

“This day provides an opportunity to reflect on the many contributions the Roma community has made in Serbia, as well as the chance to discuss ways to ensure the active participation of members of the Roma community in all sectors of public life,” he said.

The Ambassador highlighted the efforts made by State authorities to adopt the 2012-1014 national action plans for the Strategy for the Improvement of the Position of Roma in Serbia, and expressed the hope that they will be finalized soon.

“The OSCE Mission remains committed to supporting the efforts of both state institutions and Roma organizations in working towards full Roma inclusion in Serbian society,” he added.