Chairman-in-Office reviews progress in Croatia

ZAGREB, 19 February 2001 - The Chairman-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, Romanian Foreign Minister Mircea Geoana, has noted progress in areas covered by the OSCE mandate in Croatia. During his visit to Zagreb today, Minister Geoana specifically mentioned progress in police reform and the improvement of police protection.

Minister Geoana welcomed the readiness of the Croatian Government to work with the OSCE Mission to Croatia in bringing about significant reform, particularly in areas such as the restitution of property, the return of refugees and displaced persons and the rights of persons belonging to national minorities.

"The fulfilment of Croatia's international commitments would contribute to the security and stability of the whole region. The scope of the activities of the OSCE Mission to Croatia will be assessed with reference to the progress achieved by the Government in the areas covered by the OSCE mandate," said the Chairman-in-Office.

For further information contact the Press and Public Information Section of the OSCE Secretariat, tel.: (+ 43-1) 514 36 180 or e-mail: [email protected]