AGREEMENT SIGNED ON RECONSTRUCTION OF 90 PERCENT OF DESTROYED HOUSES IN MOSTAR

MOSTAR, Bosnia (November 1,2007) - Agreement on joint financing of reconstruction of destroyed and devastated housing structures in Mostar region in the amount of 12 million Bosnian Marks has been signed yesterday by representatives of all levels of the Bosnian government.

The Bosnian Human Rights and Refugees Minister Safet Halilovic , pointed out that Agreement will be subsequently signed by the Bosnian Council of Ministers after the project has been found on the agenda of their session.

According to the Mayor of Mostar Ljubo Bešlić, it is expected that 12 million Bosian Marks, with support of the European Commission and UNDP, will be sufficient for reconstruction of 90 % of the destroyed houses in the Mostar City, while according to some estimations about 4,500 people should return to their homes.

Signatories of the Agreement will pay financial funds into a special account of Mostar City by December 31 this year at the latest for 2007, and for 2008 and 2009 by April 30, 2008 and 2009.

Project documentation and adequate construction permits will be provided by the Mostar City, while selection of buildings for reconstruction will be made by a team composed by representatives appointed by each of signatories of the Agreement.