Press Statement Philip T. Reeker, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC April 1, 2002
Deferring a Decision on Certification of the Federal Republic of YugoslaviaThe Secretary of State, Colin L. Powell, has decided to defer a decision on whether the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia has met the criteria of Section 584 of the Foreign Operations, Export Financing and Related Programs Appropriations Act 2002. This section provides for restrictions on assistance to Serbia after March 31 unless the Secretary certifies that the Government of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia is taking certain actions with respect to the International Criminal tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, the Dayton Accords, minority rights and rule of law.
Although Yugoslavia made significant progress with respect to the certification criteria, the Secretary has determined that it would be premature to certify at this point.
We have communicated our decision to Belgrade authorities, and have reiterated to them our desire to see further progress on certification issues.
Released on April 1, 2002
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