OSCE Chairman-in-Office deeply concerned over armed clashes in Kosovo

WARSAW, 2 March 1998 - The Chairman-in-Office of the OSCE, Polish Foreign Minister Bronislaw Geremek, is deeply shocked and disturbed by the most recent unrest in Kosovo, and strongly condemns the violence that has led to so many causalities. Such violence, whether it be the result of repression or terrorism is equally unacceptable and goes against basic, commonly accepted standards of prevention and solution of conflicts. Continued lack of dialogue and understanding can only lead to a further deterioration of the situation.

Therefore, the OSCE Chairman-in-Office urges all sides to refrain from any further acts of violence and to start a meaningful dialogue. The OSCE is ready to assist in this process. It will also continue its active involvement related to the full and unrestricted observance of all OSCE principles and commitments.

Consequently, the Chairman-in-Office has instructed his Personal Representative for Kosovo, Mr. Max van der Stoel, to further increase his efforts. He has also drawn the attention of the Permanent Council to the gravity of the present situation.

The Chairman-in-Office remains convinced that the solution of the Kosovo problem constitutes a crucial element in normalising the relations of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia with the international community. In this connection, the willingness on the part of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia's authorities to accept the re-establishment of the OSCE Mission of long duration to Kosovo would be a positive step.