Foreign ministers agree to back new force in Macedonia

GENVAL, Belgium - European Union foreign ministers agreed yesterday to back a new multinational force to replace the current NATO disarmament mission in Macedonia, saying it is needed to prevent a resumption of fighting that could lead to another Balkan war.

A German plan endorsed by the ministers at an informal session in Genval, Belgium calls for a force led by NATO, only smaller and including non-NATO nations.

NATO has so far resisted staying in Macedonia past Sept. 26, but since 11 EU members are also members of NATO, yesterday's decision could signal a change in the alliance's position.

Some of the 15 EU ministers were adamant that any new force in Macedonia must have a U.N. Security Council mandate. Britain opposed this idea, and others said there simply isn't enough time to push a mandate through the United Nations.