URGENT STATEMENT OF HRH CROWN PRINCE ALEXANDER II REGARDING VIOLENCE ESCALATION IN KOSOVO AND METOHIA

Belgrade, 17 March 2004 – HRH Crown Prince Alexander II has issued a statement regarding the escalation of violence on the citizens of Kosovo and Metohia:

“It was with outrage and anxiety that I received the news of the escalation of inter-ethnic violence in Kosovo and Metohia. I most strongly condemn any form of violence, particularly those inspired by ethnic and religious intolerance.

I appeal to the representatives of the international community to do everything in their power to stop this wave of violence as soon as possible, and bring back peace to the citizens of Kosovo and Metohia, providing them conditions for life in safety. Ethnic clashes and violence can only make the difficult situation in Kosovo and Metohia even worse. It is the duty of all citizens to try to find the solutions in a peaceful way.

My deepest condolences go to the families of the dead and injured, and my hope is that these are the last victims in Kosovo and Metohia” – emphasized the Crown Prince in his statement.