August 3, 2007 - 17:48 AMT
Formations in Abkhazia and South Ossetia have more right to self-determination than Kosovo
Russia's stance, according to which Moscow more and more often compares the conflicts in the post-Soviet territory with the situation in Kosovo is correct, Russian politician and member of the RF Public Chamber Sergey Markov stated. He said these conflicting regions have in common almost 90%. There exist similarities in the character of conflicts, historical development, ethnic peculiarities and so on. Besides, the matter is about unrecognized formations, which enjoy limited foreign support. So, there are many common things here. "In my opinion, formations in Abkhazia and South Ossetia have more right to self-determination than Kosovo. Recognition of the Serbian province's independence will lead to destabilization of the situation in the region. Russia's efforts aim at closing down the situation to prevent escalation. That's why wise politicians realize that by making a comparison with Kosovo Russia first of all is trying not to destabilize the situation, since all these may result in outbreak of several regional conflicts. Those who do not accept Russia's stance just do not understand the huge peacekeeping potential of this balanced position. In addition, today many countries are joining Russia's stance," Sergey Markov stated, Baku based "Echo" newspaper reports.