Murat Zyazikov supports voluntary return of refugees

06.10.2004 - The return of displaced persons from Chechnya and North Ossetia currently living in Ingushetia should be encouraged, while respecting the principle of voluntary return, the President of Ingushetia, Murat Zyazikov, told a press conference.

Chechen refugees must be able to resettle in their republic in total security and be offered not just financial compensation for the loss of their dwellings and other property but also social and medical assistance. Mr Zyazikov also stressed the need to continue co-operation with the Council of Europe to ensure closer co-ordination of activities in the northern Caucasus region.