Chairman-in-Office meets with Personal Representative Frowick

BUCHAREST, 26 May 2001 (OSCE) - The Chairman-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Romanian Foreign Minister Mircea Geoana, met yesterday with Ambassador Robert Frowick, the Personal Representative of the Chairman-in-Office for the situation in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

Ambassador Frowick briefed the Chairman-in-Office on the latest developments in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. He described his meetings with Albanian political leaders in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo, as well as with Macedonian leaders in Skopje, directed at ending the armed conflict. Ambassador Frowick noted that at no time had he had direct contacts with UCK representatives.

Mr. Geoana renewed his call for the immediate cessation of all violent acts in the area. He reiterated his strong support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and urged the Macedonian government to use only such force that is necessary and proportionate to respond to armed extremists and to take steps to avoid more civilian casualties.

"The political dialogue is the only feasible solution to the Macedonian situation", stated Mr. Geoana.

The Chairman-in-Office expressed his commitment to enhanced co-ordination among the OSCE, EU and NATO.

Following the meeting with the Chairman-in-Office, Ambassador Frowick shall continue his consultations in Vienna and Washington.