Presentation of Letter of Credence to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)
Minister Plenipotentiary Mr. Guðni Bragason, Permanent Representative of Iceland in Vienna presented his Letter of Credence to Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), H.E. Ambassador Dr. Thomas Greminger on 9 May 2018, at the OSCE Headquarters in Vienna.
Mr. Bragason and Dr. Greminger discussed in a bilateral meeting general OSCE issues, such as security, disarmament and defense, in particular the Structured Dialogue, initiated one year ago. Discussed were also economic and environmental issues. OSCE's work on these matters is of considerable significance for countries in the Eastern part of the OSCE area. Iceland could contribute to this dimension of OSCE through knowledge of resource utilization, such as the use of geothermal power. OSCE's work on human rights, democracy and equality were also discussed.
The OSCE is the largest regional organization of its kind, working towards security, peace and human rights in its 57 Participating States - from Vancouver to Vladivostok. OSCE is an important forum for cooperation, consultation and treaties relating to disarmament, the peaceful settlement of disputes, conflict prevention and establishing confidence between Participating States. The Organization has its roots in the Helsinki Process of the 1970s where, for the first time, Cold War rivals met to discuss formally issues of human rights and disarmament.