82. EU, 2111th Council Meeting, General Affairs, PRES/98/227, Luxembourg, 29 June 1998

[Parts not referring to the FRY have been omitted.]

[…]

Western Balkans - Conclusions

FRY / KOSOVO

The Council expressed profound concern about the heightened tension on the ground in Kosovo and underlined the urgent need for progress towards a negotiated settlement.

The Council called for full and immediate implementation of the undertakings given by President Milosevic in his meeting with President Yeltsin on 16 June. In this connection, the Council deeply regretted Belgrade's refusal to accept an increase in the size of the ECMM presence in Kosovo. The Council reaffirmed its determination to provide an increased monitoring presence in Kosovo. It reiterated the need for a comprehensive approach to the refugee issue and its intention to work with other international organisations to promote the early return of refugees and displaced people to their homes. Unhindered access for international humanitarian organisations is an essential requirement.

The Council voiced its strong disappointment that the commitments made by President Milosevic in Moscow did not cover all the requirements set out in the European Council's Cardiff Declaration, in particular the withdrawal of security units used for civilian repression; and that the conditions had not been created for rapid progress in the political dialogue with the Kosovar Albanian leadership, with international involvement.