"Nobody asked, and we won't recognize it" - PM on Kosovo

"Nobody asked, and we won't recognize it" - PM on Kosovo

Ethnic Albanians in Kosovo, Serbia's southern province, in 2008 unilaterally declared independence, which Serbia said violated its territorial integrity and Constitution.

Vucic, who was this week on an official visit to the U.S., recalled that "five EU member states have not recognized Kosovo's independence."

The prime minister added that "much has been achieved in the dialogue with Pristina so far," and that representatives of the two sides are discussing "all the issues," while "economic ties between Belgrade and Pristina have been enhanced."

"We support the creation of better relations between the two, I would say, different societies. We have enhanced also the economic ties between Belgrade and Pristina," said Vucic.

Asked about the progress made in solving the murder of the Bytyqi brothers, Vucic said that "Serbia will solve this case because that is its obligation and its job, quickly, or much faster than expected."

"Unlike others who have avoided resolving this question, I can tell you that we will do our job and protect justice," said Vucic.

He added that the case of the Bytyqis was a terrible crime and that Serbia will do its job, "not because it is a big bilateral issue between Serbia and the U.S. and a big obstacle, but because it would be a very fair solution."