Press Release (2002) 033 8 March 2002

Statement by the Secretary General of NATO Last night, the Parliament of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia(1) adopted by a significant majority an amnesty law for criminal acts related to the 2001 conflict in FYROM. This law is another critical step in the implementation of the Framework Agreement signed in Ohrid in August 2001 by all political parties in FYROM. I congratulate the government and the parliamentarians for their vision and courage in voting for this law. Their vote demonstrates their unwavering commitment to peace and stability in FYROM and lays the ground for reconciliation of all ethnic groups in the country. The future of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia rests on respect for the rule of law and tolerance. After the crisis of last year, all communities deserve a return to normality. NATO has supported the efforts of the government of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia at every step in the search for a lasting peace and will continue to do so. 1. Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name

Tel: Fax: +32 (0)2 707 50 41 +32 (0)2 707 50 57 B-1110 Brussels/Bruxelles http://www.nato.int press@hq.nato.int