The status talks adjourned today with what the news called a "positive first step". Instead of talking outright about independence or autonomy in which it was thought both parties would have walked out, the negotiations are reported to have focused on smaller issues like health care, decentralization, culture, and police & justice. The next round of talks will start on the 17th of March. It is hoped that the talks will wrap-up by the end of the year. You can read more from the International Herald Tribune.
There is great discussion about whether or not Kosovo will set a precedent in other areas of conflict around the world. Russia has been arguing that it will set a precedent while other republics like Moldova an Georgia argue that it is a special situation that cannot be applied elsewhere.
