New Kosova Report

Finland to Recognise Kosovar State

Wednesday, 13 February 2008

Prime Minister Vanhanen

Prime Minister Vanhanen says Finland intends to recognise Kosovo's independence together with other EU countries soon after it is announced. Vanhanen however points out that Finland should not rush to announce its recognition of a Kosovar state, regardless of Finland's special status at the moment as OSCE Chairman. Vanhanen underlined the importance of not setting a precedent with Kosovo -- whereby statehood becomes a cure-all for remedying difficult political situations.

"In all probability Kosovo will declare independence -- in this situation Finland's interest is for the EU to maintain a unified front on the issue of Kosovo recognition, and not become a race among states to separately recognise Kosovo" said Vanhanen.

Kosovo, a province of Serbia, is expected to declare independence on Sunday despite Serbian objections.

YLE