OSCE Permanent Council issues statement on Kosovo

VIENNA, 1 February 1999 - The OSCE Permanent Council remains deeply concerned about the escalating violence in Kosovo. It expresses its full support for the efforts of the international community to achieve a political settlement to the conflict in Kosovo, Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The decisions of the Contact Group which include a framework and timetable for such a settlement must be implemented and its demands be met. The OSCE urges the parties to shoulder their responsibility towards their people, put down their arms and reach agreement on a political settlement within the specified timeframe.

Since it was established, the OSCE Mission (KVM) has, in difficult circumstances, demonstrated that it contributes to stability and the alleviation of human suffering. The OSCE is determined to continue and to strengthen its work in Kosovo in order to facilitate a political settlement. The KVM will stay as long as the behaviour of the parties - on the ground and at the negotiating table - permits. The security of OSCE verifiers remains of paramount importance, and the parties must refrain from any action which could endanger the security of its Mission members. The OSCE demands that the FRY fully implement the October Agreement between Foreign Ministers Geremek and Jovanovic, and that the parties implement fully all relevant UN Security Council resolutions and abstain from the use of force.

The OSCE stands ready to facilitate the implementation of a political settlement; to supervise free and fair elections, to help develop democratic institutions and processes, and to help protect respect for human rights of all inhabitants and communities in Kosovo. The OSCE will be directly engaged in the efforts to agree on a political settlement.

The OSCE will maintain a constant review of all matters related to its role in Kosovo.