Kosovo president resigns over breach of constitution

Mr Sejdiu said he respected the constitutional court's ruling

Kosovo's President Fatmir Sejdiu has resigned after a court ruled he was in breach of the constitution by also being leader of a political party.

He is the head of the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), the junior partner in Kosovo's government. The presidency is a largely ceremonial role.

His resignation comes ahead of talks between the territory and Serbia.

Kosovo's declaration of independence from Serbia in 2008 has not been recognised by that country.

In July this year, the International Court of Justice ruled that Kosovo's declaration of independence was not illegal under international law.

Mr Sejdiu said he had thought he was not in breach of the constitution but respected last week's ruling by the constitutional court.

"I presented my resignation for the post of Kosovo president today," Mr Sejdiu said.

"I was convinced that keeping the function of the president of the Democratic League of Kosovo without exercising it did not violate the constitution, the court had a different opinion and I respect the ruling."