OSCE Chairperson-in-Office dismayed by further detention of British and Canadian citizens in FRY

VIENNA, 30 September 2000 - The OSCE Chairperson in Office, Austrian Foreign Minister Benita Ferrero-Waldner has expressed her dismay that the authorities in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia have once again extended the detention of two British police trainers from the OSCE Mission to Kosovo and their two Canadian friends. The men have already been held for two months, and now face a further 30 days in prison. The OSCE Permanent Council has made clear its view that the previous prolongation of the detention was motivated by political purposes. This latest development makes it still more obvious. The Chairperson-in-Office underlines that there is no legitimate reason for the men to be detained.

The Chairperson in Office reiterates her call for the authorities of the FRY to accelerate legal proceedings and to release the men as quickly as possible. She reminds the authorities in Belgrade that the two British policemen were seconded to the OSCE as part of the United Nations Mission in Kosovo, helping to build a peaceful and multiethnic Kosovo. Their detention is thus of concern to the whole of the OSCE. The Chairperson-in-Office will continue diplomatic efforts to secure the four men's freedom.

For further information contact Melissa Fleming, Spokesperson Tel (+43-1-) 514 36 150, Mobile (+43 - 664) 325 3698 or Måns Nyberg, Press Officer, Tel (+43-1-) 514 36 533, Mobile (43-664) 133 7699