Brussels, 04/05/2001 (Agence Europe) - On 3 May, the Swedish Presidency adopted the following declaration on behalf of the EU: "The EU strongly condemns the renewed acts of violence by ethnic Albanian extremists in the northern region of the FYROM, including the killing of two soldiers, the occupation of several villages and the taking of hostages. The EU calls upon the extremists to stop the violence, to release hostages and withdraw immediately. The EU emphasis its' continuing strong support for the process of inter-ethnic dialogue that was recently launched by the FYROM authorities. The latest provocations underline the need for the FYROM government to continue to show restraint and for the leaders of all political parties to support the process of peaceful dialogue, to isolate extremists, to condemn the violence and to urge their supporters to remain calm. The EU condemns the vicious circle of violence and counter-violence from whatever quarter. The Union urges the ethnic Albanian leaders in Kosovo and political leaders in Albania to condemn unambiguously these acts of terrorism and to use their influence to prevent the violence which threatens the stability of the whole region".
Javier Solana will be on 6 May in Skopje, with the NATO Secretary General Lord Robertson, he will notably discuss developments in terms of security. On 7 May, the EU High Representative will meet, in Pristina, the KFOR Commander, General Skiaker, Mr Hakkerup and the local leaders.