Bush recognizes Kosovo as sovereign state

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania, Feb. 18 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush, in a letter Monday to Kosovar President Fatmir Sejdiu, recognized Kosovo as an independent and sovereign state.

Bush said he was pleased that the country embraced multi-ethnicity "as a principle of good government" and committed to develop "accountable institutions in which all citizens are equal under the law."

He also noted Kosovo, which Sunday unilaterally declared independence from Serbia, said it was willing to assume responsibilities under the Ahtisaari Plan governance model.

"The United States welcomes this unconditional commitment to carry out these responsibilities and Kosovo's willingness to cooperate fully with the international community during the period of international supervision to which you have agreed," Bush said in the letter released while he was on his African visit. "I am convinced that full and prompt adoption of the measures proposed by U.N. Special Envoy (Martti) Ahtisaari will bring Kosovo closer to fulfilling its Euro-Atlantic aspirations."

Based on assurances from the Kosovar government, "I am pleased to accept your request that our two countries establish diplomatic relations," Bush said. "The United States would welcome the establishment by Kosovo of diplomatic representation in the United States and plans to do likewise in Kosovo."