The New Nation - Internet Edition

THE declaration of independence by Kosovo is noted to be one of the few positive political developments in the international scene in recent years. The robust support to the same coming from the United States and the European Union (EU) countries are welcome developments. Serbia, the former occupiers of Kosovo, is making noises blaming the Western countries for violating international law in extending their diplomatic support to Kosovo's independence. Russia has joined in the chorus.

This is not unexpected because the Slavic people who are dominant in Serbia are racially, linguistically and culturally akin to the Russians. Serbia had long ruled Kosovo using brute force only and would loathe to see the territory slipping out of its hand. Russia is believed to see in the independence of Kosovo a signal for Chechnya, a Muslim majority area under occupation against the will of its people. The people of Kosovo have been fully within their rights and in adherence to international law while asserting their right to self-determination. International law upholds the sovereignty and indivisibility of states and also accepts the sovereign right of a people. Thus, there is nothing unlawful and ambiguous about Kosovo's independence.

Serbia lost any moral claim over Kosovo long ago after committing the worst genocide of Muslims there. The Western powers saved Kosovo's Muslims and they are now ready to give full diplomatic recognition to it and also to protect its independence in every way. Muslim countries should have been more in the forefront in recognising independent Kosovo. Bangladesh as one of the largest Muslim countries should be prompt in recognising its independence. Bangladesh would be only keeping in line with the international mainstream and upholding universally accepted principles both in terms of law and morality by quickly recognising Kosovo's independent existence.