OSCE Chairperson-in-Office deeply concerned about terrorist activities in Central Asia

VIENNA, 16 August 2000 - The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Austrian Foreign Minister Benita Ferrero-Waldner, is deeply concerned about reports that since early August groups using terror and intimidation have again been active in some countries of Central Asia. Militants, allegedly linked with the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, are reported to have intruded into the Sukhandarynski Province in the South of Uzbekistan, and the Batken Province in the South of Kyrgyzstan.

The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office strongly condemns all manifestations of international terrorism and extremism and supports all appropriate actions to counter such activities. The OSCE has repeatedly warned against threats to the stability and security in Central Asia caused, inter alia, by terrorism, organized crime and drug trafficking as well as those stemming from the unresolved situation in Afghanistan, most recently in the Statement of the OSCE Ministerial Troika Meeting of early July.

The exchange of information by the affected States and other forms of their co-operation to counter the current threat, such as the creation of a joint headquarters in Khujand/Tajikistan by the authorities of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, are welcomed and encouraged by the OSCE. At the same time, measures aimed at repelling the terrorists should be carried out in a manner that avoids harm to the civilian population.

The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office expresses her hope that the States of the region, while taking necessary measures to counter terrorism, will also take determined action to implement democratic political and economic reforms as key factors for long-term stability. Continuous progress in the reform process, as well as respect for human rights and the democratic rule of law contribute to the creation of conditions where terrorism and extremism cannot find support.

For further information contact the Press and Public Information Section of the OSCE Secretariat, tel.: (+ 43-1) 514 36 180 or e-mail: info@osce.org