Russia has "firm solidarity" with Serbia on Kosovo

MOSCOW, Jun 6 (Reuters) Russia has ''firm solidarity'' with Serbia over the question of Kosovo, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters in Moscow today.

''We maintain firm solidarity with you on the question of Kosovo,'' Lavrov said before a meeting with Serbian Foreign Minister Vuk Jeremic.

Kosovo Albanians demand full independence. Serbia says broad autonomy is the most it can offer.

President Vladimir Putin will meet Serbian Prime Minister Vojislav Kostunica this weekend at an economic forum in St Petersburg, Lavrov said.

Russia, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has hinted it could veto a resolution that supports a plan clearing the way for Kosovo's independence.

Moscow has called for more talks between Belgrade and the Kosovo Albanians.

REUTERS HK SSC1403