Mbasogo: We do not recognise gov't of "Kosovo" because it is enemy of Belgrade

BELGRADE - Equatorial Guinea's President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo says his country supports the territorial integrity of Serbia, retaining a firm stance of non-recognition of the unilaterally declared independence of the so-called Kosovo.

"We do not recognise the government of 'Kosovo' because they are enemies of Belgrade who want to divide the country, and our stance is firm in that regard. We have demonstrated that in all international forums, especially in the UN," Mbasogo told Politika in an interview during a visit to Serbia.

Asked if his country had been under pressure to change its position, Mbasogo responded that it had not, but that, without prior consultations with the government, an Equatoguinean delegation had once inconsiderately come into contact with Pristina's representatives in San Salvador.

"We then reacted immediately and stripped those individuals of authorisations to confirm our unwavering stance to Serbia," he said.

Mbasogo also said four agreements on cooperation signed by Malabo and Belgrade would further help a decades-long friendship and cooperation materialise in the future.