Recognition of Kosovo’s Independence by Macedonia, Montenegro

10 October 2008

(U.S. also welcomes Portugal’s recognition of Kosovo as a sovereign country)
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U.S. Department of State
Office of the Spokesman
October 9, 2008

Statement By Sean McCormack, Spokesman

Macedonia, Montenegro and Portugal:  Recognition of Kosovo Independence

The United States welcomes and commends the decisions today by Macedonia and Montenegro to recognize their neighbor Kosovo as a sovereign country.  This recognition will help deepen regional cooperation to the benefit of all of southeast Europe and also help move the region towards greater integration with Euro-Atlantic institutions.

We also welcome Portugal’s recognition of Kosovo earlier this week.  To date, fifty countries have recognized Kosovo's independence.  The growing number of recognitions is an affirmation of Kosovo’s progress in establishing a stable, multiethnic, democratic society that seeks normal political and trade relations with its neighbors and the greater international community.  We look forward to additional recognitions in the coming months.

We continue to support Macedonia, Montenegro, and the rest of our partners in southeast Europe in their efforts to promote peace, development, and cooperation in the Balkans.  This regional cooperation is key to achieving our shared vision of a Europe whole, free, and at peace.