Czech Republic supports UN proposal for Kosovo

The Czech Republic has expressed support for a UN proposal which would give the multi-ethnic Serb province of Kosovo quasi-independence. The proposal tabled by Finnish Prime Minister Martti Ahtisaari avoids the word "independence" but offers Kosovo self-governance, a constitution, anthem and flag. A spokesman for the Czech Foreign Ministry said that resolving Kosovo's status would pave the way for the states of the region to be able to join European structures.