OSCE to play an active role in the Stability Pact

SARAJEVO, 30 July 1999 - The Chairman-in-Office of the OSCE, Foreign Minister Knut Vollebæk of Norway, today committed the OSCE to play an active role in the development and implementation of the Stability Pact for Southeastern Europe.

Speaking at the Sarajevo Summit Meeting, Foreign Minister Vollebæk underlined that the OSCE has placed the Stability Pact under its auspices and that full use of the Organizatio's institutions and field missions will be made in order to facilitate close cooperation with the countries of the region.

He stressed that the Pact represents a partnership between the countries of the region and the international community. The countries of the region deserve the support of the international community, but ultimate responsibility for building peace and stability in Southeastern Europe remains with the countries themselves, said Vollebaek.

In close co-ordination with the Special Coordinator of the Stability Pact, the OSCE will give active support to the proceedings of the Southeast Europe Regional Table as well as the Working Tables. Foreign Minister Vollebaek declared that the OSCE is preparing for a particularly responsible role concerning the Working Table on Democratization and Human Rights. The OSCE is also ready to use its expertise in support of activities under the Working Table on Security Issues.

The Chairman-in-Office emphasised that the commitment of support that is being reaffirmed today by the international community must be translated into practical action over the coming weeks and months. The OSCE Summit in Istanbul in November will provide us with an opportunity to take stock of the progress of the Stability Pact, said Foreign Minister Vollebaek, adding that the OSCE is determined to do its very best to ensure that tangible results are achieved by that time.