Constructive spirit at 22nd OSCE Ministerial Council laid solid foundations for continuing dialogue on Europe’s security challenges, says Chairperson Dačić

BELGRADE, 5 December 2015 – The 22^nd OSCE Ministerial Council took place in a good, constructive and frank atmosphere, laying solid foundations for continuing dialogue on addressing Europe’s security challenges, said OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Serbia’s Foreign Minister Ivica Dačić earlier today after the two-day meeting drew to a close.

Dačić said that in the present atmosphere of mistrust and divisions, it was essential that dialogue continues in order to bring views closer on many issues.

He noted with satisfaction that there was broad agreement on how to address the key security challenges, adding that this could serve as a platform for much needed trust and confidence building.

“Deep concern was expressed about the crisis in and around Ukraine, which was one of the central elements of discussion. There is a shared interest in responding as a community to the challenge of terrorism and violent extremism, which is having a profound impact on all of Europe and beyond. Recognition was given to the urgency of addressing the migration and refugee crisis and its significant impact on a number of participating States and Partners for Co-operation, since the OSCE can play a valuable role in responding to the crisis,” said Dačić, summarizing the discussions.

States agreed to pursue a multi-dimensional approach to preventing and countering Violent Extremism and Radicalization that Leads to Terrorism, and to recognize that youth and children require particular attention and that their needs, concerns and interests should be addressed in a comprehensive manner.

Declarations were also adopted on reinforcing OSCE efforts to counter terrorism in the wake of recent terrorist attacks, on the OSCE activities in support of global efforts in tackling the world drug problem, and a statement on advancing negotiations on the Transdniestrian Settlement Process in the “5+2” format.

OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier said: “In the current atmosphere it is important to keep the channels for dialogue open in spite of our differences. This is where the 22^nd OSCE Ministerial Council has served its purpose. Throughout the year, the Serbian Chairmanship has served as an effective mediator in their efforts to bridge divides amid turbulent times in European security, highlighting the OSCE’s role as a key platform for rebuilding trust and confidence.”