Thank you, again, Madame Chairperson.

We join with the EU in calling on the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia authorities to consider procedures to result in the speedy release of Mr. Kastrati, and all other political prisoners in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. We recall that President Kostunica has affirmed it is a priority to his government to gain parliamentary approval for an amnesty for political prisoners.

We welcome the Chair's ongoing efforts in this regard, including the letter Chairman-in-Office Ferrero-Waldner provided two weeks ago to President Kostunica specifically on the fate of Mr. Kastrati. We also welcome efforts of the Secretariat and delegations around this table to help gain his freedom. This will remain an issue of close attention to the United States until Mr. Kastrati is returned to his family.

Thank you.