January 29, 2008 - 14:40 AMT
Solana: Western Balkans including Kosovo to be accessed to EU
"The EU Troika failed to reach an agreement on the final status of Kosovo. Neither of the sides was willing to compromise. Of course, this is regrettable, as a negotiated settlement remains in the best interest of both parties," said Javier Solana, the EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy.

"The EU has repeatedly stated that the status quo is unsustainable and stressed the need to move toward a solution, which is vital for European and regional stability. Such a solution should ensure a democratic, multi-ethnic Kosovo's commitment to the rule of law and to protection of minorities and cultural and religious heritage. We understand that Kosovo is mainly a European responsibility as we believe that Western Balkans, including Kosovo, have their future in the European Union" he said.

As to the conflicts in the South Caucasus, the EU Commissioner said, "We will continue supporting international efforts to resolve these conflicts, including the one in Nagorno Karabakh. We are also ready to support confidence building measures, as we are already doing in Georgia. And last but not least, we encourage the countries in the region to find constructive ways to improve their relations with their neighbors. Here again, we are ready to help," Trend reports.