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U.S. Department of State 93/05/06 Statement on Situation in Bosnia-Herzegovina Office of the Spokesman State by Secretary of State Warren Christopher Brussels, Belgium May 6, 1993. Reaction to Bosnian Referendum Secretary Christopher: The decision of the so-called parliament last night really makes a mockery of the signatures in Athens. It's a grave disservice to all the people of Bosnia. It makes all the more urgent my consultations, which I intend to continue. I think there will be a new focus on those consultations today. With respect to the proposed referendum, I would not be inclined to invest it with any legitimacy. It looks to me like another cynical ploy to accomplish delay while they are rolling up additional territory in Bosnia. I find the conduct really very unusual, and I must say that I'm going to remain on the track that I started on at President Clinton's direction last Saturday, consulting with our allies about new, stronger, tougher measures. I've had a good conversation with the Secretary General about these matters this morning. I must say he shares my view of the seriousness of the overnight developments, but he certainly is able to speak for himself. I thank him for his hospitality and friendship, as always. Mr. Secretary General? Secretary General Woerner: Thank you, Mr. Secretary of State. We had a very in-depth discussion, exchange of views on the situation, which is considered to be very serious, and on possible options. Our member nations will have to consult here in NATO about further steps. Of course, we will stay in close contact with the United Nations, and I hope the international community will now consider additional measures to come to a solution which stops this terrible war in former Yugoslavia. And, as the Secretary of State, I am very disappointed by the vote, and I think it is a blow--a severe blow--to the efforts to reach a peaceful settlement. We have to continue our efforts. Thank you very much.