Athens News Agency: News in English, 05-10-31

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From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Kosovo solution must be result of substantive negotiations, PM Karamanlis says after talks with Serb counterpart Kostunica

[01] Kosovo solution must be result of substantive negotiations, PM Karamanlis says after talks with Serb counterpart Kostunica

"The solution that will be given must emanate from negotiations of substance and not be the product of imposition," Karamanlis said after his meeting with Kostunica, adding that the procedures for determining the future status of Kosovo have already been set out.

Karamanlis stressed that the relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council, and particularly Resolution 1244, must be taken into consideration, adding that the solution must also be compatible with the EU values and also take into consideration Serbia's European prospects.

Greece, he said, placed particular importance on the implementation of the criteria for Kosovo's future status, stressing that all the inhabitants of Kosovo must have the same rights. He further underlined that respect of human rights and minority rights was a fundamental factor for stability in the region, as well as respect and protection of cultural heritage.

Karamanlis also said that Greece was working within the international organisations it participated in for observance of all the conditions.

Kostunica, in turn, said he had met with "great understanding" for his positions from the Greek prime minister, noting that a resolution of the issue must be founded on the implementation and respect of the rules of International Law and the rights of the Serbs, the Albanians and other minority populations, as well as respect of the region's sovereignty.

The Serb leader further stressed that all preceding Security Council resolutions must be taken into consideration, as well as the Dayton agreement, in seeking a solution, adding: "There is no solution that can be imposed. A solution can be found through substantive dialogue, and that is where there will be compromises and mutual give and take between the two sides."

Karamanlis said they further discussed matters of economic and political cooperation between the two countries, as well as the issue of state unification of Serbia and Montenegro.

Kostunica said he looked forward to Greece's support for his country's European course, noting that there existed "delicate matters" that had their roots in the Kosovo issue.

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