Skopje missions of the OSCE, EU and U.S. Embassy issue statement on anniversary of Ohrid Framework Agreement

SKOPJE, 13 August 2009 - The Skopje missions of the OSCE, the European Union and the U.S. Embassy issued the following statement today to mark the eighth anniversary of the signing of the Ohrid Framework Agreement.

"We note with appreciation the eighth anniversary of the signing of the Ohrid Framework Agreement. The country has made positive progress in the implementation of the Agreement and in improving interethnic relations during this time.

The Missions of the European Union, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and the Embassy of the United States of America urge the full implementation of the Framework Agreement, not just in letter but in spirit.

We encourage all the relevant authorities to intensify their efforts toward this goal. The Framework Agreement remains the right and proper vehicle for ensuring security, political stability and promoting interethnic relations, and we reaffirm our firm commitment to these values."