EU delivers strong message to Yugoslav authorities
EU delivers strong message to Yugoslav authorities
The EU Troika of Ambassadors in Belgrade today delivered a strong message on behalf of the European Union to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia authorities in relation to the ongoing crisis surrounding the municipal elections there. The message reiterated the concerns expressed by the Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Spring, in his statement of 27 December 1996..
The demarche, which was received on behalf of Serbian President Milosevic by Yugoslav Deputy Foreign Minister Cicanovic, was conveyed by the Dutch Charge d'affaires in Belgrade, acting on behalf of the Irish EU Presidency.
The EU told the Belgrade authorities that it welcomed the report of the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office of the OSCE on the dispute surrounding the 17 November municipal elections. The EU called upon the authorities to act upon the conclusions of the report and in particular to respect the results of the 17 November local elections.
The EU also expressed concern about the tense situation in the streets of Belgrade and in a number of other towns and once again called upon the authorities to exercise maximum restraint and cease obstructing peaceful protests. All concerned should refrain from acts of provocation and violence.
Concern was also expressed about certain aspects of the current situation related to the media and the EU called upon the authorities to promote free and objective media coverage of developments. It reminded the authorities particularly of the importance which the EU attaches to safeguarding the rights of independent media. The EU was dismayed at reports of attacks on journalists covering events in Belgrade. It condemned any such actions and called on the authorities to ensure that such incidents do not recur.
The EU reiterated its position that observance by the authorities in Belgrade of democratic norms and respect for human rights are important factors influencing the relationship between the FRY and the EU and also the FRY's integration into the international community generally.
