OSCE Chairman-in-Office concerned about fragile situation in Albania

WARSAW, 24 February 1998 - The Chairman-in-Office of the OSCE, Polish Foreign Minister Bronislaw Geremek, is deeply concerned by the unrest and senseless violence in the Albanian city of Shkodra. Such lawless destruction of public and private property goes against the basic European standards.

The Chairman-in-Office appeals to all parties to refrain from inflammatory action and language, which fuel a climate of distrust, civil disobedience and insecurity in which crime thrives. The priority of Albania's leadership and opposition, first and foremost, should be the security and well being of the Albanian people.

Mr. Geremek calls on all Albanian citizens to support government efforts to combat criminal activity. Law enforcement action should not be exploited for partisan political purposes.

The Chairman-in-Office recalls that Albania has only recently emerged from a state of virtual collapse of public order and remains fragile. He therefore urges the international community to step up implementation of quick impact assistance projects that would bring early, visible and tangible benefits to the population, especially in deprived areas.

The OSCE, for its part, is continuing its active engagement in Albania.