OSCE Chairman-in-Office discussed fight against terrorism with UN and US representatives

WASHINGTON, 7 February 2002 - The fight against terrorism and the role of the Organization for Security and Co-operation topped the agenda of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office's visit to New York and Washington D.C.

The Chairman-in-Office (CiO), Portuguese Foreign Minister Jaime Gama, discussed international security issues with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and US Secretary of State Colin Powell.

Mr. Gama said he highlighted the priorities of the Portuguese Chairmanship during his contacts, with an emphasis on the fight against terrorism.

"The implementation of the Bucharest Action Plan and the Bishkek Action Programme are crucial for the OSCE's role in supporting the efforts of the UN and the international coalition", Foreign Minister Gama said.

The UN and US officials welcomed the initiatives of the CiO to appoint a Personal Representative on Preventing and Combatting Terrorism, to organize a high-profile meeting on the issue among international organizations in Lisbon next June, and to prepare an OSCE Charter to Prevent Terrorism.

OSCE-UN co-operation in conflict prevention, as well as issues related to the human and economic and environmental dimensions were also discussed when Mr. Gama met UN Secretary General Kofi Annan in New York on 5 February.

Jaime Gama emphasized the co-operation on regional issues, particularly regarding Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia (Abkhazia) and Central Asia, both during his meetings with UN officials, Colin Powell, US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, White House National Security Advisor, and members of the US Congress, on 6 February.

In Washington D.C., Foreign Minister Gama also met the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, who briefed him on their views regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh negotiations.