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The Government of the Republic of Serbia

In the service of citizens

Redoubling all activities to end cooperation with The Hague

Belgrade, 4 May 2006

The Serbian government examined at its session today the decision made yesterday by the European Union to call off the next round of talks scheduled for May 11 and unanimously adopted the Information submitted by Serbian Prime Minister Vojislav Kostunica. The government members concluded that all government bodies must double all their activities in order to successfully complete cooperation with The Hague Tribunal as soon as possible.

Kostunica briefed the government of the work of competent government services so far on tracking down and handing over Ratko Mladic to The Hague. He said that Mladic's entire support network has been discovered and that the court has already ruled detention for several of his closest helpers.

The Prime Minister said that calling off the negotiations has done great harm to Serbia and that it is necessary to step up efforts to surrender Ratko Mladic to The Hague as soon as possible. The government unanimously agreed that Ratko Mladic's hiding is unworthy of patriotic and officer's tradition and that it directly harms the existential interest of the people and the state.

Kostunica notified the government about the Deputy Prime Minister's resignation and their meeting at which he stated all the reasons why Labus should keep his position in the government. Unfortunately, Labus told him his decision is final.

The Prime Minister and all government members voiced their regret at Labus's decision, adding that by joint efforts, in which Labus had a prominent role, the government did a great job in Serbia's interest. At today's session, the government voiced gratitude to Deputy Prime Minister Labus for his considerable contribution to the government's work.

Kostunica told the government that in his talks with international officials he has never made any deadlines for fulfilling the obligations towards the Hague Tribunal. He said that it was only mentioned that it would be in Serbia's best interest if these obligations were fulfilled "yesterday". The government is doing all it can to conclude the cooperation with the Tribunal as soon as possible.