MALDIVES: FOREIGN MINISTER EAGER TO CONVINCE

UNCLAS COLOMBO 000031 SIPDIS DEPARTMENT FOR EUR/SCE E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL UN UNGA KV MV SUBJECT: MALDIVES: FOREIGN MINISTER EAGER TO CONVINCE COALITION PARTNERS TO SUPPORT GORM RECOGNITION OF KOSOVO REF: A. 08 STATE 91908 ¶B. 08 COLOMBO 867 ¶1. (SBU)In a January 8 exchange with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives Dr. Ahmed Shaheed, Ambassador urged Maldives to join the 52 nations across the world that have recognized Kosovo. Ambassador emphasized Kosovo's successful and stable development as one of the most important priorities of the United States and its European partners. Ambassador also stressed the steady stream of support Kosovo has received from the international community since declaring independence on February 17, 2008 and Kosovo's progress since that time in establishing institutions of democratic governance. He mentioned the unique factors that make recognizing Kosovo a special case, not a precedent for secessionist demands, including the history of ethnic cleansing and crimes against civilians in Kosovo, the extended period of international administration, and a UN-led process designed to determine final status. ¶2. (SBU) Foreign Minister Shaheed conveyed his eagerness to recognize Kosovo's independence, which he views as irrevocable, and stated that he had called on the government to recognize Kosovo during the presidential campaign. He noted however, that he first needed to persuade coalition partners in the Government to support his position. He requested Ambassador's assistance in making the case. Ambassador agreed and awaits Shaheed's suggestions on whom to contact. Post will continue to push for recognition and report further developments septel. Blake