Lavrov: Russia's position on Kosovo unchanging

The attempt of those who orchestrated the separation of Kosovo without a referendum to doubt the expression of the will of the citizens of Crimea is "absurd."
Source: Beta, Tanjug Friday, May 15, 2015 | 09:14

(Tanjug)

"Russia's position on the Kosovo issue is absolutely clear and unchanging: it is only possible to regulate this problem on the basis of international law and within the framework set out in UN Security Council Resolution 1244."

"As for Belgrade's efforts in this direction - we find those decisions that will satisfy Serbia acceptable. For our part, we are ready to continue to provide the necessary support to our Serbian partners," Lavrov was quoted as saying.

The minister also said he was satisfied with the development of Russo-Serbian trade and economic ties.

"Trade exchange is rising, its infrastructure is improving," said Lavrov, adding that among the examples of successful investment and modernization are the company Serbian Petroleum Industry (NIS) and the repair works on Serbian railways.

He pointed out that Russia is "counting on the dialogue between the two countries on energy to be consistently expanded, including the delivery of Russian gas."

Lavrov arrived late on Thursday and was welcomed at the airport by his Serbian counterpart Ivica Dacic.

Addressing reporters at Belgrade's Nikola Tesla International, he "expressed support for Serbia's OSCE chairmanship and welcomed the way Serbian officials marked the 70th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany in World War II."

"We highly value the participation of Serbian President Nikolic at the ceremony in Moscow and that of Serbia's military unit at the Victory Parade. We know that this anniversary was celebrated solemnly and emotionally in Belgrade, with Prime Minister Vucic taking part. In light of these events, I believe we will quickly achieve certain agreements concerning support for Serbia's OSCE presidency," Lavrov told journalists at the Belgrade airport on Thursday evening.

"One of the main tasks is to promote a document that confirms our commitment to peace, cooperation and prosperity on the whole European continent," Lavrov stressed.

"I am confident that, in what is not an easy situation on our continent, the (OSCE) chairmanship of Serbia and of Ivica Dacic personally is a guarantee for reaching balanced and well assessed decisions," he said.