Press Release Regarding the NATO Air Operations Against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia March 24, 1999

Given that the intensive diplomatic efforts made so far to reach a settlement of the Kosovo issue have failed, NATO Secretary General Mr. Solana, in accordance with the authority delegated to him by the NATO Council, has ordered SACEUR to implement the first phase of the air operations against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

Turkey, due to both the importance she attaches to the maintenance of peace and stability in the Balkans and her historical, human and cultural ties with the region, has exerted intensive efforts for the peaceful settlement of the problem. However, it is observed that the Belgrade Government had not adopted a cooperative attitude towards meeting the expectations of the international community as well as those of the entire Kosovar people. Besides, the increasing violence in Kosovo and as a result the augmented number of displaced persons and refugees have added to the issue a serious dimension of a humanitarian tragedy.

Turkey, regrets that this issue has reached such dimensions and is profoundly concerned about the likely developments in the near future. The stance of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia has made it inevitable for NATO to resort to air operations. Turkey, being a NATO ally, supports the NATO Council's decision regarding the phased military options. Even at this critical period, it is our most sincere wish that the Belgrade Government, acting with common sense and wisdom, will respond positively to the expectations of the international community.