AKASHI CONCERNED OVER NEW FIGHTINGS IN SARAJEVO

ZAGREB, May 16 (Hina) - UN Secretary General's special envoy Yasushi Akashi issued a press-release in Zagreb today expressing concern over new fightings in Sarajevo, and fearing that "the casualty rate among civilians might rise." "The violence of today's fighting in Sarajevo sets back the clock in the search for a peaceful settlement in Bosnia and Herzegovina," Akashi said. "I appeal to the leaders of the parties to the conflict not to squander what chances remain for peaceful dialogue. UNPROFOR is, as always, at their disposal for this purpose, and I urge them to immediately begin the dialogue under our auspices," Akashi said. (Hina) jn bk 162108 MET may 95