OSCE Chairman condemns use of force in Armenia, again appeals for
post-election dialogue

2008-03-01 16:00:00

ArmInfo. The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Finnish Foreign Minister Ilkka
Kanerva, condemned the use of force against peaceful demonstrators in
Yerevan today.

The press service of the OSCE quotes Kanerva as saying: "I urge the
authorities to use maximum restraint. I am troubled that there are reports
of casualties. I urge the authorities to release those detained, and I again
call on the government and the opposition to engage in dialogue."

In meetings with Armenian officials in Yerevan on 26 February, the Minister
had said the OSCE was ready to continue helping the country as it attempts
to consolidate its democracy and address shortcomings noted by OSCE and
other observers during the 19 February presidential election process.

"The OSCE considers dialogue central to stability. At this important stage
in Armenia’s development, everything should be done to avoid any escalation
of tension," said Minister Kanerva, who also visited Azerbaijan and Georgia
during his visit to the South Caucasus this week.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress