Russia, EU talks on Kosovo independence failed

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Source: CCTV.com | 02-14-2008 08:40

The European Union and Russia have failed to narrow differences over Kosovo's independence drive after talks in Slovenia.

The European Union and Russia have failed to narrow differences over Kosovo's independence drive after  talks in Slovenia.(CCTV.com)

Russia's Foreign Minister stresses Moscow's opposition to the independence of the Serbian province. He also warns unilateral recognition of its independence will violate the UN and international laws.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has met with his EU counterparts, as ethnic Albanians in Kosovo plan to declare independence in days.

Lavrov repeats Moscow's view that Kosovo's secession will be a mistake, although Moscow will not seek punishment.

Sergei Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister, said, "Suggesting that Russia plans to introduce any punishment measures against anyone sounds wild. But we are sure that if there will be a unilateral declaration of independence, recognition of that would be a mistake."

Lavrov says Russia will support Serbia's request for an emergency UN Security Council meeting.

Sergei Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister.(CCTV.com)

Sergei Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister, said, "Russia will support Serbia's request for a Security Council session. The session should enable everyone to fairly come forward with their views so we can try to understand what may happen and to see how we can prevent it."

Kosovo is a Serbian province with an ethnic Albanian majority. It is expected to unilaterally declare independence after multiple rounds of talks failed to resolve its future status.

The troika of the EU, Russia and the US have mediated the talks.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei