Kosovo is a unique case and as such it cannot trigger a chain secessionist effect, Bulgarian Foreign Minister Ivailo Kalfin was quoted as saying by Focus news agency. The inability to find a solution to the situation was running the risk of igniting a Middle Eastern type conflict which could only exacerbate with time, he added.

When we speak about national interest, we do not choose between Kosovo and Serbia, the minister said. Instead, we choose between the option to make a commitment with the international community and the other option to ignite a conflict fraught with violence.

“Our position is completely understandable and predictable, and was taken independently,” Kalfin said.

Speaking of the outbreaks of violence in Mitrovica, Kalfin said the EU policing force and the UN had to assume their peacekeeping duties as soon as possible. “What happens in Kosovska Mitrovica serves as no reason to delay Kosovo's recognition,” the minister said.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Sergei Stanishev agreed, saying the uncertainty veiling Kosovo's status and prospects only generated pressure.