Serbia has strongly condemned Kenya for recognising Kosovo, a breakaway state it considers its territory.
Through a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, Serbia said the move constitutes a blatant violation of international law.
It added that the recognition of Kosovo statehood is a direct breach of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244, “which unequivocally guarantees the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Serbia”.
“This decision comes in the very year that marks the 80th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Charter, which the Kenyan authorities have disregarded with this move. This decision also undermines efforts to foster constructive dialogue, regional stability, and respect for the international legal order,” it said.
It added that the move is a regrettable precedent in the traditionally friendly relations between Serbia and Kenya—relations that have been built over decades on the principles of mutual respect and cooperation, including within the Non-Aligned Movement.
“The Republic of Serbia will take all necessary diplomatic and political measures in response to this unacceptable and unfriendly act. We also highlight that over the past eight years, twenty-eight countries have withdrawn or suspended their recognition of the unilaterally declared independence of so-called Kosovo, while only two new states have granted recognition,” it said.
“The clear majority of the international community, along with law and justice, remain on Serbia’s side. Serbia will continue its efforts with even greater determination. The Republic of Serbia remains firmly committed to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity through all available diplomatic and legal means”.
Serbia added that any reference to the 2010 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice as justification is unfounded.
In recognising Kosovo’s statehood, Kenya’s Foreign Ministry said its declaration of independence on February 17, 2008, received the endorsement of the International Court of Justice in 2010.
“Kenya has recognised Kosovo in the interest of international peace and security, territorial integrity and in furtherance of strengthening relations with countries in the Balkans. In this regard, President William Ruto today met Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani’s special envoy Behgjet Pacoli at State House Nairobi,” it said in a statement.
Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani thanked President Ruto for the recognition, saying it will strengthen the friendship between the two countries and enhance bilateral cooperation.
“As stated in the Proclamation, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has confirmed that Kosovo’s independence fully aligns with international law. We urge all nations, in Africa and beyond, to stand on the right side of history and recognize Kosovo,” Osmani said
She added that recognising Kosovo contributes to strengthening peace and stability in the region and across the broader European continent.
