Military

DATE=10/31/00

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=U-N / YUGOSLAVIA (L ONLY)

NUMBER=2-268691

BYLINE=BRECK ARDERY

DATELINE=UNITED NATIONS

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: The United Nations Security Council has endorsed Yugoslavia's request for full membership in the world organization. V-O-A Correspondent Breck Ardery reports from the United Nations.

TEXT: The request for U-N membership came from Yugoslavia's new president, Vojislav Kostunica, who told the Council in a letter that "fundamental democratic changes" have occurred in his nation. The Council endorsed the application and passed it along to the U-N General Assembly where it is expected to be approved within a few days.

U-S Ambassador Richard Holbrooke told reporters the action in the Security Council was a "great day for democracy" and ends eight years of argument over Yugoslavia's status at the United Nations.

/// HOLBROOKE ACT ///

Eight years of sterile, stupid argument over Yugoslav membership in the United Nations is over. Yugoslavia joins the United Nations in accordance with U-N resolutions and they accept the obligations of membership and they will come in on an equal basis with the other republics of the former Socialist Republic of Yugoslavia.

/// END ACT ///

Bosnia's ambassador, Muhamed Sacirbey, said his nation will co-sponsor Yugoslavia's membership when the matter is considered by the General Assembly. However, Mr. Sacirbey said U-N membership means Yugoslavia must cooperate with the International War Crimes Tribunal.

Since 1992, when the old Yugoslavia broke up, the country has not been a full member of the United Nations. Although still allowed to use U-N facilities, Yugoslavia's representatives were denied the right to vote in the General Assembly or serve on committees. The Assembly decided Yugoslavia could have full U-N membership only if it re-applied as a new nation, something that was never done until now. (Signed)

NEB/UN/BA/LSF/JWH