New Yugoslav parliament begins sitting

BELGRADE, OCT. 7. Yugoslavia's parliament began a meeting today that will formally end 13 years of rule by Mr. Slobodan Milosevic and usher in what has been hailed as a new era of hope under the new President, Mr. Vojislav Kostunica.

The 178 newly-elected members of the two houses began separate sessions, mostly to take care of formal protocol. They will then gather for a joint session to witness the swearing in of Mr. Kostunica.

Mr. Milosevic, who after days of protests finally admitted defeat yesterday in September 24 elections, was not present despite having said he wanted to retain a political role. His wife, Ms. Mira Markovic, who has a seat in the Parliament, was also absent.

However, many members of Mr. Milosevic's old entourage were there, including the Serbian President, Mr. Milan MilutiNovic, who along with Mr. Milosevic has been accused of war crimes by The Hague Tribunal.

- Reuters

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