Date: March 6, 1999

Statement by the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Foreign Minister Knut Vollebæk of Norway

Oslo 6 March 1999

The Chairman-in-Office takes note of the Brcko Arbitration’s final award issued by presiding arbitrator Roberts Owen on 5 March 1999. Mr. Vollebæk commends the decision as balanced, fair and supportive of the interests of all parties involved. The award will allow the people of Brcko to move forward together to build a democratic, multi-ethnic and prosperous future.

The Chairman-in-Office recalls the commitments by the Dayton signatories to implement the decision when made and he calls upon them to fulfil those commitments fully and peacefully.

The Chairman-in-Office understands the importance of the decision to peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The OSCE is therefore firmly committed to working closely with the Supervisor, the relevant authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina and its entities, and with citizens of the Brcko District to ensure full implementation of the award.