Press Release (2001)114 21 Aug. 2001

Statement by the Secretary General following the Destruction of the Lesok Monastery The destruction of the Lesok Orthodox monastery last night is deplorable. Attacks on places of worship are totally unacceptable and undermine the efforts of all those who are striving to restore peace and stability. I strongly urge the population to resist any calls for retaliation. We are at a crucial moment, with the destiny of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (1) being played out and a peaceful solution in prospect. The long-term stability of the country depends on tolerance and I appeal for restraint from all those who seek to ensure the country's future security and prosperity. Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.

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