New Kosova Report

Kosovo independence was inevitable

Wednesday, 20 February 2008

Kosovo independence was inevitable

ROME - Kosovo's independence was "inevitable" after eight years under U.N. administration, Italian Foreign Minister Massimo D'Alema said Wednesday as Italy prepared to announce its formal recognition of the breakaway Serbian province.

"Kosovo's independence is an inevitable outcome," D'Alema said over Italian radio. "Kosovo has not been part of Serbia since 1999 when it became a U.N. protectorate.
"Kosovo cannot remain under international administration forever, and the Kosovars don't want to be under the domination of Serbia anymore," he said.

The outgoing foreign minister announced Rome's intention to recognize Pristina in Brussels Monday.

D'Alema was to consult Wednesday afternoon on the issue with the foreign affairs committees of the two chambers of parliament ahead of an extraordinary cabinet meeting on Thursday morning.

The official announcement is expected after the cabinet meeting.

Among the big powers of the European Union, Germany, France and the U.K. have already recognized Kosovo.

Italy has among the largest contingents taking part in a 2,000-strong European Union mission to support the civil administration of Kosovo and help ease the transition to independence.

Prime Minister Romano Prodi warned Monday against allowing Serbia to feel " abandoned" by Europe.