OSCE Chairman-in-Office condemns Kosovo violence

WARSAW, 15 December 1998 - The Chairman-in-Office of the OSCE, Polish Foreign Minister Bronislaw Geremek, strongly condemns the recent violence in Kosovo which comes at a critical juncture in the efforts of the international community to relax tensions and support the peace process.

Yesterday's violence cost the lives of over 30 people. Mr. Geremek offers his condolences to the family members of those who were killed.

Mr. Geremek warns that continued violence could reverse the progress made over the past couple of months towards a peaceful settlement of the conflict. While the OSCE remains steadfast in its commitment to carry out its mandate, it can't do it alone. The Federal Yugoslav authorities and the people of Kosovo must commit themselves to negotiations, and not resort to further violence. Fighting will not lead to peace and prosperity, but to a future of instability.

The OSCE renews its full support to the negotiations led by US envoy Christopher Hill and supported by the EU representative Wolfgang Petritch as the only way to come to a peaceful settlement.

The OSCE continues to build - with the Kosovo Verification Mission - a strong international presence on the ground. As our numbers grow, so too will our efforts to deter violence and promote stability.