HRH CROWN PRINCE ALEXANDER’S SPEECH AT EMERGENCY PRESS CONFERENCE REGARDING THE TRAGIC EVENT HELD AT THE ROYAL PALACE ON 12 MARCH 2003 AT 9:00 P.M.

My entire family joins me in expressing my deepest sympathy to Mrs. Ruzica Djindjic, her children and family. My wife and I visited her in their home today. I was deeply shocked by this criminal act today that I regard as one against our state and all our people.

I had the pleasure to meet Dr. Zoran Djindjic in June 1992. I will always remember the friendship we had and the warm exchange of views that have taken place over the decade. The objective was always to have a democratic state and to give every single citizen the chance to survive in this competitive world. Dr. Zoran Djindjic worked hard for reforms, progress and prosperity of our country. We will always remember his hard work and contribution.

It is very important that at this moment of tragedy we unite, stay calm and continue the work for a better future for all the people of Serbia. This criminal act took place at a very delicate moment in our history when we have just created a new Union of Serbia and Montenegro. I appeal to all our politicians, to all our Government representatives and to all persons of responsibility not to let this moment be used to create situations that would not enhance the conditions in our country.

Our country is a great country, and our people deserve a stabile future. My thoughts at this moment are once again with Mrs. Ruzica Djindjic and her family.