HRH CROWN PRINCE ALEXANDER II FIRMLY CONDEMNS THE ATTACK ON THE SERBIAN MONASTERY OF DECANI

Belgrade, 31 March, 2007 - At the time when the greatest Christian holiday Easter is approaching, the Monastery of Decani in the heart of Kosovo and Metohija was attacked.

The widely reported plans for the protection of Serbs and their property are not giving any results. I appeal to all countries that are fighting against terrorism to take these terrorist attacks seriously. The international community must firmly impress upon the authorities in Kosovo that this kind of behaviour is very uncivilised, and that they must prove that they are capable of respecting, not only the Serbs but everyone who is living in Kosovo. Democratic principles and human rights must be fully adhered to and such attacks must not be tolerated.

In Serbia, many ethnic minorities live in equality, and we ask for our people in Kosovo and Metohija to have the same equal status as anyone else living there.

The damage and pain that can be caused by such extremist attacks will not contribute to any future within Europe. I strongly condemn this act of terrorism on one of the most important Serbian Holy places which is a UNESCO World Heritage monument.

In light of this kind of barbaric behaviour, one should seriously consider whether Mr. Ahtisaari’s plan and the guarantees it offers are being taken in context. I demand much more guarantees for safety and protection from the authorities.