EP calls on all EU member states to recognise Kosovo

BRUSSELS, Feb 4 (KUNA) -- The European Parliament (EP) adopted a resolution Thursday welcoming the progress made in normalising relations between Serbia and Kosovo.
The resolution passed by 403 votes to 130, and stressed that these relations would be helped if all EU member states were to recognise Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbian rule in 2008.
It noted that that five EU member states - Cyprus, Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain - have yet to formally recognise Kosovo, adding that if all EU member states were to do so, this would bring more stability to the region and help to normalise relations between Kosovo and Serbia.
It added that EU-Kosovo Association Agreement, ratified by the EP on January 21, provides a powerful incentive for reform and paves the way for Kosovo's integration into the EU.
In a separate resolution, the EP also welcomed the start of EU accession negotiations with Serbia. (end) nk.hb