Head of OSCE Mission to Serbia welcomes Parliament's adoption of new law on national minority councils

BELGRADE, 2 September 2009 - Ambassador Hans Ola Urstad, the Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, welcomed today the Serbian Assembly's adoption of the new Law on National Councils of National Minorities.

"We welcome Serbia's efforts to continue supporting and promoting the rights of national minorities. This long-awaited law will regulate the competencies and elections of national minority councils in line with international standards. The new legislation represents a significant contribution to strengthening the vibrant and thriving multi-ethnic society of Serbia," said Urstad.

"I am certain that national minorities and the country will benefit from the adoption and proper implementation of this important law."

Urstad added that the OSCE Mission looked forward to supporting the effective implementation of the law both at the central and local level in co-operation with the relevant ministries and national minority councils.