Eighteen years ago, the United States of America recognized the independence of Kosovo, which it supported until its declaration and even after.
The most important recognition of Kosovo came from the USA, and the then American president, George W. Bush, announced this from Tanzania, where he had gone for a meeting with the then president of that country, Jakaya Kikwete.
"Good morning. On Sunday, the people of Kosovo declared their independence. They have asked the United States for diplomatic recognition. And yesterday, the United States officially recognized Kosovo as a sovereign and independent state," stated Bush.
Speaking to reporters, he said that the newly declared independent Kosovo would commit to the highest standards of freedom and would be fully recognized by the US.
"In its declaration of independence, Kosovo committed itself to the highest standards of democracy, including freedom, tolerance, and justice for citizens of all ethnic groups. These are principles that honor human dignity. They are values that America seeks in a friend. And soon, we will establish full diplomatic relations with the new state of Kosovo," the American president said.
Asked if this was a "provocation" to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Bush responded that history will prove that this was the right move to bring peace to the Balkans.
"In fact, we have worked very closely with the Russians, as we have with the Europeans and other nations on Kosovo's independence, because we believe it is the right thing to do. There is disagreement, but we believe, as do many other countries, that history will prove this to be the right move to bring peace to the Balkans. This strategy has been in the works for a long time," Bush said.
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