MINSK, 7 June (Minsk) - Martin Sajdik, the OSCE's special representative in the trilateral contact group on Ukraine called upon the sides of the Ukrainian conflict to protect civilians, BelTA has learned.
«Security should become a top priority. Apparently, it is associated with a complex approach combining the observance of the ceasefire, the withdrawal of heavy weapons and forces, and mine clearance,” Martin Sajdik added.
The working group on security issues continued discussions on defining new disengagement areas and setting up heavy weapons free buffer zones.
Martin Sajdik noted that humanitarian cooperation has gained positive momentum. A project on the reconstruction of a pedestrian bridge in Stanitsa Luganskaya was presented on 7 June. “This means that there is certain technical background to start the reconstruction. Now formal consent from the Ukrainian side in particular districts of Lugansk Oblast is required to carry out this crucial project,” the special representative emphasized. He called upon the sides to promptly reaffirm their support for the project and provide the necessary conditions to implement it.
There is some positive progress in the economic dimension. Water supply in some areas of Lugansk Oblast was restored thanks to the payment made at the end of May. There is an agreement on the next payment.
The working group on economic issues discussed the need to repair the water system infrastructure in Donetsk Oblast and ensure security accordingly.
