Press Release (2001)032 2 March 2001

Statement by the Secretary General on the Situation in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (1) I strongly condemn the violent incidents occurring in the border area of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (1). As reiterated by NATO's Ministers of Foreign Affairs earlier this week, I want to emphasise that NATO is fully committed to supporting the security, stability and territorial integrity of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (1). This nation stands out as a successful example of a well-functioning, multi-ethnic society in a region which has for too long suffered from conflicts among different ethnic groups. I remain in close contact with the Skopje government and spoke with President Trajkovski on the telephone again today. We discussed the current situation in the north of the country, as well as the visit of the team of senior NATO and SHAPE representatives who have been meeting with government representatives over the past few days. Major General Dierker and Ambassador Speckhard have held a series of meetings in Skopje and will report back to me and to General Ralston, the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, upon their return. KFOR is taking robust measures to increase security on the Kosovo side of the border, in co-ordination with the government of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (1). I commend the government of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (1) for its measured response to the situation so far, and its efforts to resolve the problems through peaceful means. I welcome the common response of ethnic Macedonians and Albanians in condemning the attempts to destabilise their country. NATO will continue to work with the government of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (1) to support the enhanced security of the country's borders. Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.