Malta has yet to take a decision on whether to recognise the breakaway republic of Kosovo, a decision which would reinforce Malta’s pro-west foreign policy orientation following its decision to reactivate the application to join NATO’s Partnership for Peace.
“The matter is being considered in line with developments which are happening,” a spokesperson for Foreign Minister Tonio Borg told MaltaToday when asked whether the new government intends to recognise the newly proclaimed republic of Kosovo.
The United States is one of the foremost supporters of Kosovo’s independence from Serbia.
Malta had originally opposed the recognition of an independent Kosovo in the absence of a resolution in the United Nation’s Security Council. Russia and China, both of which have veto powers in the Security Council, oppose Kosovar independence.
Opponents of Kosovo independence argue that this would open a Pandora’s box with separatists in other countries claiming independence.
Only last week Croatia, Bulgaria and Hungary, all neighbours of Serbia have announced in a joint statement that they would also recognise Kosovo’s independence.
But countries like Cyprus and Spain remain steadfast in their opposition to Kosovar independence.
Speaking to MaltaToday in February, former Minister Michael Frendo told this newspaper that Malta will be “examining all international developments” before taking a decision on whether to recognise the breakaway republic of Kosovo.
According to diplomatic sources, Malta is closely watching the position adopted by Greece, a pro-West nation with strong cultural ties to Orthodox Serbia. Although opposed to Kosovar independence, the Greek conservative government has not categorically excluded recognising the new state.

jdebono@mediatoday.com.mt