Politicians, PM, express hope relations witt Serbia will not suffer

In related news, Prime Minister Mirek Topolánek and other Czech politicians expressed the hope on Friday that the government’s decision to recognise Kosovo would not hamper traditionally good relations between the Czech Republic and Serbia. Mr Topolánek said that Belgrade's decision to withdraw its ambassador from Prague was understandable. But he stressed he firmly believed in the continuation of "very good relations" between the two countries.

The opposition Social Democrats and the Communists have been critical of the move, saying that the recognition of Kosovo's independence would have negative consequences. A spokesman for President Václav Klaus, meanwhile, said the president was surprised by the government's decision concerning Kosovo. Later on Friday the president received Ambassador Vladimír Vereš at Prague Castle on Friday - a surprise move. Diplomatic circles reportedly see the meeting as a gesture of reassurance of how highly Prague values continued good relations with Serbia.