55 States condemn renewed violence in former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia

VIENNA, 11 May 2001 - The Permanent Council of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), consisting of Representatives of all 55 participating States, has today adopted the following statement:

The Permanent Council condemns in the strongest terms the renewed violent attacks, including terrorist activities by ethnic Albanian extremist groups in the northern parts of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. They constitute a threat to the security and stability of the state and of the wider region. These acts could seriously threaten democratic processes and undermine inter-ethnic relations in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

The participating States express their strong support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

The Permanent Council supports the Government in its efforts to end the violence in a proportionate manner, consistent with the rule of law. It calls on the political leaders in the country and in the region, who have yet not done so, to condemn unambiguously the violent acts and terrorist activities, to isolate those committing them and to use their influence to secure peace. Extremists who are engaged in violent acts must cease all such actions immediately, release the hostages and lay down their weapons.

The Council welcomes the establishment of the mechanism for enhanced political dialogue under the leadership of President Trajkovski with the view to ensuring that all citizens, irrespective of their ethnic origin, have a stake in the development of their country.

The Council encourages the speedy formation of a broad coalition government consisting of all relevant political parties and reflecting the need for national unity and the continuation of the successful reform processes in the country. It urges all relevant political leaders to take their responsibility for the stability of the country and join the coalition. Furthermore, the Council considers that the inter-ethnic dialogue should continue and that all those involved should do their best to produce concrete results as soon as possible.

For further information contact the Press and Public Information Section of the OSCE Secretariat, tel.: (+ 43-1) 514 36 180 or e-mail: info@osce.org