英闻天下——245 Serbia, Kosovo to Improve Strained Ties

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　　It follows the highest level talks held between the sides since Kosovo declared independence from Belgrade in 2008.

 

　　Although a sign of progress, the meeting showed no sign of a breakthrough in relations.

 

　　Serbian President Tomislav Nikolic insists Kosovo give up its claim to independence:

 

　　"For the start it was good, we have opened the talks, how long it will last, it is not so important in the end, its better to talk longer and to somehow come to a solution but, if Pristina's position stays firm and unchanged that they are an independent state, which, let's say, is not recognized by UN, then we will hardly reach an agreement," he said.

 

　　Kosovon leader Atifete Jahjaga says she's disappointed that Serbia appears to stick to old and entrenched³ positions and urged Belgrade to move on.

 

　　"Unfortunately he remained in the options of the old radical⁴ nationalist options that have caused a lot of damages and a lot of consequences, not only to my country but into the entire region⁵. And I expect from the Serbian people to enjoy the positive changes and the spirit of the cooperation and the spirit of the good neighborhood relation."

 

　　EU officials say they are pleased both sides met, saying the talks affirm⁶ a dialogue process at the top level.

 

　　The main talks, chaired by European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, involve the prime⁷ ministers of Serbia and Kosovo, who will meet again later in February.

 

　　Serbia lost control over Kosovo in 1999 after NATO-mounted air war against the Serbian military.

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