Azerbaijan, Baku, 13 February / corr Trend K.Ramazanova / The European Union (EU), which may recognize the independence of Kosovo unilaterally, considers that the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict cannot be mentioned in this context.
"It is good that in unlike Abkhazia and South Osetia, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is not mentioned in the context of recognition of Kosovo," Peter Semneby, the EU special representative for South Caucasus, said in an interview with the Russian newspaper Kommersant on 13 February.
A declaration on independence of the Serb Province of Kosovo is likely to be signed at the end of this week, Jakup Krasnichi, the Speaker of the Kosovo Parliament stated on 12 February.
No politician from Kosovo spoke about the date of the meeting of local parliament where the relevant decision will be made. However, the Kosovo media mentioned 17 February as the possible day for issuing autonomy for the region and even the sum of money to be spent for celebrations - approximately €1mln.
Leaders of the South Serb Province with the support of the United States, the UK and most US countries have been reaching for an independent status over several years. Russia is against the unilateral issue of independence for Kosovo.
Semneby voiced his disappointment that despite extensive dialogue no solution has been found to the Karabakh problem. "However, definite tranquility reigns there and that is encouraging," the special representative said.
Semneby said that the negotiation process held within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group, restrains Armenia and Azerbaijan from taking any dramatic actions.
The conflict between the two countries of the South Caucasus began in 1988 due to Armenian territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Since 1992, Armenian Armed Forces have occupied 20% of Azerbaijan including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and its seven surrounding districts. In 1994, Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a ceasefire agreement at which time active hostilities ended. The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group ( Russia, France, and the US) are currently holding peaceful negotiations.
The special representative said that after relaxation of tension around Kosovo, talks over Abkhazia and South Osetia can be restored.
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