OSCE mediated talks continue today in Grozny

VIENNA, 21 June 1995 - Talks aimed at finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Chechnya continue today at the headquarters of the OSCE Assistance Group in Grozny.

The talks yesterday concluded with all sides in agreement on the group of military issues to be further discussed and finalized. These include:

* the cessation of military activities;* mutual liberation of all persons detained by force;* the cessation of terrorist action and sabotage;* disarmament, stage by stage departure of troops.

The delegations agreed to a mutual cessation of military activities for 21, 22 and 23 June, the period during which the delegations hope to finish their work.

The OSCE Assistance Group to Chechnya considers that the work accomplished so far should be construed as a positive step towards a conclusion of an agreement.

The resumption of negotiations, which began on 25 May, was facilitated by a decree of Russian Federation Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin dated 18 June. Participating in the talks on the Federal side were Mr. V.A. Mikhaylov, Mr. A.I. Vol'skiy, Mr. N.I. Semonov, and General-Colonel A.S. Kulikov. The Dudayev side was represented by Mr. Usman Imayev and Mr. Amat Zakayev. The meeting was chaired by the Head of the OSCE Assistance Group, Mr. Szándor Mészáros.