NATO and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (ª) hold special consultation

The Foreign Minister of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (ª), Dr. Srgjan Kerim, met with NATO's 19 Ambassadors on 9 March to discuss co-ordinated approaches regarding the series of violent incidents occurring along the country's border area.

His meeting with the North Atlantic Council - NATO's top decision-making body- comes just one day after the Council adopted a set of measures for southern Serbia and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

At a press conference, Dr. Kerim stated that: "NATO has issued a very clear message, condemning the violence and provocation along our border". He stressed the importance of the Alliance's continued support for his government, which was confirmed once more by NATO Ambassadors and by Deputy Secretary General, Ambassador Balanzino, who stated that measures had been taken "to strengthen the integrity of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and support their armed forces in pushing back the threats."

Dr. Kerim concluded by saying: "We do not insist on forms, we insist on effective measures. And there we have a common position with NATO"