SECRETARY-GENERAL DISMAYED AT DEATH OF EIGHT SECURITY FORCE MEMBERS IN FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

SECRETARY-GENERAL DISMAYED AT DEATH OF EIGHT SECURITY FORCE MEMBERS

IN FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General expresses his dismay at the death of eight members of the security forces of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, and wishes to convey his condolences to their families.

He deplores this unprovoked act of wanton violence that further threatens the stability in the region.  He calls for a complete stop to the use of violence.

The Secretary-General reiterates the importance of continuing the dialogue among the political leaders of the country aimed at strengthening multi-ethnic relations and democratic norms and restoring stability.

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