Constitutional officials in Czechia oust president's idea of attracting Kosovo recognition

The Czech president said on 11 September in Belgrade he would discuss with his country's constitutional experts, the possibility of attracting recognition of Kosovo's independence -- a move that does not coincide with his mainly ceremonial post.

He put the issue at a meeting of the highest constitutional officials among whom are the president, prime minister, parliament's chamber speaker, foreign minister, interior and defence.

Czech Foreign Minister Tomákh Petíček said it was the end of the meeting that the Czech Republic's stance towards Kosovo has not changed.

Statements made in Belgrade by the 74-year-old president, who is known for controversial attitudes, had prompted reactions in Czechia, where such ideas were nominated unrealistic.

Chechia has recognised Kosovo in May 2008. The independence of Kosovo, proclaimed in February of that year, continues to be rejected by Serbia, which is involved in efforts to boost the withdrawal of recognitions for Kosovo.

The aspirations of both countries for membership in the European Union are conditional on a normal relations agreement between them, and recently the US administration is committed to renewing the process of talks between the two countries. / VoA