CONCERN BECAUSE OF THE VIOLENCE ESCALATION

Belgrade, 17 March 2004 – HRH Crown Prince Alexander II has issued a statement regarding the wave of violence that has spread from Kosovo and Metohia to Serbia:

“It was with outrage and anxiety that I learned about the spreading of violence from Kosovo and Metohia to the cities in Serbia. Although I understand the protests because of the difficult situation of our people, I most strongly condemn all forms of violence, particularly the one instigated by ethnic and religious hatred.

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

I am particularly concerned because of the burning down the mosques in Belgrade, Nis and other towns in Serbia. Events like these do not contribute to reducing the tensions and they further intensify the clashes. That is why I appeal to all our state institutions, and all citizens of Serbia to stop the violence and prevent any further spreading of ethnic, religious or political intolerance.”