Prime Minister Costas Simitis, in his address to summit leaders, called for the avoidance of impasses in discussions over the Kosovo crisis. The ministerial meeting in Istanbul last June proved to be a frustrating experience. We should not forget that our countries, Yugoslavia's immediate neighbours, are most affected both by the crisis in Kosovo and by any punitive measures of the international community. Mr. Simitis also stressed the importance of promoting stability, prosperity and good neighbourliness in the wider region.
Regional cooperation is essential for the modernisation of countries in our area.
At the same time, however, during our meetings, we, the leaders of countries of Southeast Europe, must discuss the dangerous issues affecting our region. While it is highly encouraging to meet and agree on further action in all fields, our efforts can only prove successful in the long run if we also tackle difficult problems which affect all of us. I am referring specifically to the dangerous situation in Kosovo, which threatens stability in the region and can destroy the fragile peace there. The humanitarian crisis would have disastrous consequences for all our countries and put an abrupt end to economic development. We should not forget that our countries, Yugoslavia's immediate neighbours, are most affected both by the crisis in Kosovo and by any punitive measures of the international community.