Serbia's neighbours announce official recognition of Kosovo
Serbia's neighbours have recognised Kosovo
Also In The News
|
Parlophone, March 24th . |  |
Wednesday, 19, Mar 2008 12:36
Serbia's neighbours Bulgaria, Croatia and Hungary have announced their official recognition of Kosovo's independence.
In a joint statement issued today, the three countries declared their recognition of Kosovo.
"The decision on the recognition of Kosovo is based on thorough consideration," the statement said.
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia on February 17th.
The move received a mixed global reaction with the US, the UK and most of Europe backing the move, while Russia and Serbia strongly rejected it.
Serbian foreign minister Vuk Jeremic described Kosovo as an "illegal state" and claimed that those nations who supported it "cannot count on good relations with us".
Budapest and Zagreb are expected to formalise their recognition of the Kosovar state at cabinet meetings today, while Sofia will follow with an announcement on Thursday.
The three countries also declared that, while backing Kosovo, they wanted to continue ties with Serbia.
"The three countries express their interest in developing ties with a Serbia that maintains good relations with its neighbours, enjoys economic growth and keeps its European orientation," their statement said.