Romanian Foreign Minister Teodor Baconschi stated on Aug. 13 that his country is under no pressure to recognize Kosovo's independence, but that it is getting "warm recommendations" to do so.

We are under no pressure at all, it is only warm recommendations we are receiving, said Baconschi to the Aug. 13 issue of Vecernje Novosti daily, adding that the recommendations are coming from those partners of Romania who have already recognized Kosovo's independence.

However, he denied the possibility that Romania would accept the "recommendations," adding that his country is "reacting as an independent country."

"It's a matter of principle. Our Serbian friends are well familiar with Romania's stand. From our point of view, we appreciate rationality in the official reactions of the Serbian authorities after the International Court of Justice announced its advisory opinion," Baconschi said.

He added that, if it is asked to do so, Romania wants to facilitate a direct dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, as it is clear that the best future for the entire Balkan region is within the EU.