OSCE Troika Ministers condemn fighting in Croatia

VIENNA, 5 May 1995 - The Ministers of the OSCE Troika, Foreign Minister Susanna Agnelli of Italy, Foreign Minister Lászlo Kovács of Hungary and Foreign Minister Flavio Cotti of Switzerland, issued the following statement today:

It is with deep concern that the OSCE has been following over the past days the latest upsurge in fighting in Croatia. The danger of a new violent phase of the war and the further spread of the armed conflict seems to have increased.

We unequivocally condemn the violation of the cease-fire agreement of 29 March 1994, the deliberate, retaliatory shelling of the civilian population and the hostage-taking of UN personnel. We call on the parties to show restraint and cease immediately all hostilities.

The OSCE reaffirms its attachment to a negotiated solution which would preserve the sovereignty of Croatia over the whole of its territory within its internationally recognized borders. It is our strong view that, in conformity with the basic norms of the OSCE and international law, political objectives can only be achieved by peaceful means through full respect for human rights, including minority rights and unconditional adherence to all OSCE principles, in particular those regarding respect for territorial integrity of states, the obligation to refrain from the threat or use of force and the non-recognition of acquisition of territory by force. We, therefore, urge the parties to resume without delay negotiations under the auspices of the international community aimed at finding a political solution and at avoiding any further escalation or extension of the conflict that may lead to tragic consequences. In particular, we call upon the parties to consolidate the existing cease-fire and refrain from any step that could result in the resumption of hostilities.

The OSCE continues to firmly support the on-going international efforts to bring peace to the region. We will consult actively in order to determine how the OSCE, drawing upon its expertise and availability instruments, could contribute to these efforts to defuse tensions, restore confidence and bring about a lasting and peaceful solution to the conflict.