Press Release (2002)131 29 Nov. 2002

NATO to Continue Supporting the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 1 In response to a request from President Trajkovski, the North Atlantic Council has agreed to continue supporting the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia with a new mission from 16 December 2002. While acknowledging that Operation Amber Fox can now be successfully finalised, the North Atlantic Council agrees that there is a requirement for a follow-on international military presence in the country, so that risks of destabilisation are minimised. NATO's continued presence after 15 December will be two-fold; its operational elements will provide support for the international monitors; its advisory elements will assist the government in taking ownership of security throughout the country. The new mission will be significantly smaller in numbers and will be called Allied Harmony. The mission will assist the government of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in taking ownership of security throughout the country. It will have the capability to liaise with local authorities in the former crisis areas and will contribute to support the international monitors, while acknowledging that the local authorities have the primary responsibility in this regard. The North Atlantic Council has agreed to review the modalities of this continued presence in February 2003. Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.

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