Headlines
- Announced evictions in Bocinja were not carried out
- The Federal Parliament postponed the deadline for purchase of flats
- 60 people died in a plane crash in India
- Croatia became a member of WTO
Maglaj
Two announced evictions of refugees in Bocinja were not carried out today. According to information from the Maglaj Municipality, about 70 foreigners live in Bocinja. Citizens of Bokutici protested because of the announced evictions of refugees in Bocinja, and because of the current situation of all returnees. Reported by Mirna Sadikovic.
Sarajevo
The Federal Prime Minister, Edhem Bicakcic agreed with delegations from Maglaj and Zenica-Doboj Canton on methods of implementation of Federal regulations in the Maglaj Municipality. They agreed that the Government participates in implementation of property laws and refugee return. According to Maglaj officials, evictions should be completed in 10-15 days. Anes Alic produced the report.
Bocinja
According to the RS Association for Return, more than 50% of Serb refugees from Bocinja want to return to their homes, Biljana Arsic confirmed.
The High Representative, Wolfgang Petritsch sent an open letter to the people of B&H, regarding the property laws, calling on them to report on any abuses by their leaders or authorities. Mr. Petritsch appealed on B&H citizens to respect these laws.
Pale
The High Representative, Mr. Wolfgang Petritsch met officials from the Sarajevo Canton and representatives of the Srpsko Sarajevo Municipality. They formalised a joint initiative for creation of a strong region. Mr. Petritsch described Pale as a depressing environment. “Here, I am guaranteeing security to all returnees in the RS”, said the Mayor of Srpsko Sarajevo, Predrag Lasica. OBN reporter Damir Kaletovic produced the report.
Sarajevo
The Federal Parliament adopted a proposal for changes in the law on flat purchase for lease owners. The Federal Parliament postponed the deadline for purchase of flats. The new deadline is 6th September. A draft law on electric power led to violent debate. The draft was adopted in the end of the discussion. Reported by Sevko Bajic.
Tuzla
NATO forces started their operation “Fast Response II” in the area of the Multi-National Division “North”. “NATO soldiers can deploy in the Balkans in less than 24 hours, and this exercise confirms it”, said the Commander of the Operation, General Robert Wagner. Vedran Persic produced the report.
World
The trial of the RS Army General, Radislav Krstic continued before the ICTY. He was accused of genocide against Bosniacs in Srebrenica in 1992.
Croatia and Albania became members of WTO, after 7 years of negotiations.
The NATO Secretary General, George Robertson met the Croatian President, Stipe Mesic. Mr. Robertson said that Croatia was becoming a member of the Euro-Atlantic family, and that it was a good example for other countries in the region.
At least 60 people died in a plane crash in the east part of India.
The US President Bill Clinton said that minor progress was made in negotiations in Camp David.
An Orthodox Church in a village near Pristina was destroyed in a bomb explosion last night. Adis Saranovic produced the piece on world events.
Banja Luka
The Special US Envoy for the Balkans, Robert Frowick met the RS Prime Minister, Milorad Dodik. They discussed preparations for the forthcoming elections. Mr. Frowick also met representatives of PDP, SNS and DSP. Reported by Milorad Milojevic.
Banja Luka
The RS Striking Board and the Minister Pavic signed a protocol. Employees of the RS Post Office started the strike because of numerous problems. Tatjana Lajsic produced the report.
Tuzla
The 5th Summer University was opened in Tuzla today. About 800 students gathered there. The aim of the gathering is an exchange of knowledge and development of communications with the world. Reported by Dragana Krstanovic.
Sport
Reports on international football and local tennis were presented.