Nicolas Sarkozy on Kosovo
TL;DR
Nicolas Sarkozy strongly supported Kosovo's independence, urging for its recognition by the international community at the appropriate time.
Key Points
As President, Nicolas Sarkozy announced France's intention to recognize Kosovo's independence shortly after its declaration in February 2008.
He sent a letter in October 2009 acknowledging Kosovo's progress and its contribution to international recognition.
He maintained that France would assist Kosovo's accession to the European Union as it progressed.
Summary
Nicolas Sarkozy, as French President, took a clear stance in favor of Kosovo's independence from Serbia, which he actively promoted during his term. He stated that France intended to recognize the breakaway province, a position announced shortly after its declaration of independence in February 2008. He also maintained that the progress made by Kosovo contributed to its recognition by a significant number of international actors. Furthermore, he expressed a forward-looking view, stating that France would help Kosovo join the European Union, conditional on continued reforms and positive regional developments.
His support was framed as recognizing the unique circumstances following the 1999 NATO intervention and the subsequent UN administration, though he cautioned against a hasty declaration. He later used the Kosovo precedent to draw a controversial comparison with the 2014 events in Crimea, arguing that if Kosovo had the right to secede from Serbia, a similar argument could not be entirely dismissed for Crimea leaving Ukraine. However, his earlier policy focused on supporting Kosovo’s path toward international integration and recognizing its self-determination.
Key Quotes
“Kosovo has gone come a long way since the declaration of its independence. I congratulate you on the significant progress that you have made before and in the current process of decentralization, which aims at offering each community an ample room in public life. I know that I can count on you and on your efforts to keep up with your current engagement in this regard”
“...France will support independence for Serbia's breakaway Kosovo province, adding he hopes it will happen at the right moment.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Nicolas Sarkozy was a strong proponent of Kosovo's independence from Serbia. As French President, he made clear that France supported the move and would recognize the new state. He urged that the declaration should happen at an opportune moment, when no one felt humiliated.
While his core support for the 2008 independence declaration appears consistent, a later statement drew controversy by comparing the Kosovo precedent to the situation in Crimea. In this later context, he argued that if Kosovo had the right to secede, a similar argument could not be entirely dismissed for Crimea leaving Ukraine.
Nicolas Sarkozy expressed a commitment to Kosovo's European path. He stated that France would help Kosovo join the European Union in the future. This support was linked to the continuation of reforms and decentralization efforts within Kosovo.