Li Ming: Unilateral actions can lead to an escalation of tensions, the Kosovo issue should be resolved within Resolution 1244

Chinese Ambassador to Serbia, Li Ming, commenting on recent events in Kosovo, such as the decision of the Central Bank to ban the dinar, stated that China believed that any unilateral action could lead to panic and escalation of tensions, adding that all ethnic groups must have their legitimate rights guaranteed, including Serbs in Kosovo.

Li Ming said for RTS that they had been observing the recent events in Kosovo and were concerned about them.

"We believe that any unilateral action can lead to panic and tension escalation, which is not in the interest of any party involved in the dispute nor in the interest of peace and stability in the region. We believe that all ethnic groups and their legitimate rights and security should be respected and guaranteed, including the Serbian community, and therefore we hope that the Brussels Agreement of 2013 and the establishment of the CSM will be implemented," he said.

Li Ming emphasizes that the issue of Kosovo should be resolved through dialogue and consultations within Resolution 1244 of the United Nations Security Council and that in this process, Serbia's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity must be fully respected.

He states that they hope, in principle, that the Kosovo issue will be resolved based on international law and within relevant UN resolutions.

"We respect and appreciate Serbia's political efforts to resolve this issue, and we hope that we can maintain close relations on this important issue," he adds.

Commenting on yesterday's meeting with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Li Ming says that he had an excellent meeting with Vucic where they exchanged views and ideas on bilateral relations, as well as on issues of common interests and major concerns of the two countries.

"China and Serbia are very good friends because we have similar historical experiences, we fight for our sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. We have established deep political trust. China and Serbia understand each other and mutually support each other," he said.

He emphasizes that China appreciates and respects Serbia's adherence to and respect for the principle of one China, and when it comes to the Kosovo issue, China's position is clear and consistent and has been so for a long time.

He reminds that two days ago, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs already issued a statement that China fully supports the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Serbia.