PRC/KOSOVO: BEIJING WILLING TO ACCEPT INDEPENDENCE

C O N F I D E N T I A L BEIJING 004956 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 03/16/2016 TAGS: PREL PGOV SR CH SUBJECT: PRC/KOSOVO: BEIJING WILLING TO ACCEPT INDEPENDENCE PROVIDED SERBS AGREE Classified By: Political External Unit Chief Edgard Kagan. Reasons 1.4 (b/d). (C) The PRC is not opposed to independence for Kosovo as long as all interested parties agree, according to MFA International Organization Department UN Division Director Yang Tao. In a March 15 meeting, Yang said that the Kosovo issue is very sensitive because of its unique history. Noting that the PRC supports final status talks, Yang said Beijing believes some countries are prejudging the resolution of the question of Kosovo's sovereignty and even trying to influence the outcome by calling for independence. He said the PRC would look favorably at an agreement that was reached through the final status talks and is acceptable to all the parties. Expressing he personal view, Yang commented that China accepts the possibility of a referendum to determine Kosovo's future status and would support the results of such a referendum provided it reflects the will of the people in Serbia and Montenegro and not just the residents of Kosovo. Noting strong Russian views on this matter, Yang stated that Kosovo is a very complicated issue that is particularly sensitive for China and could also set precedents that could have a negative impact on a number of Soviet bloc countries. RANDT