Ahtisaari later told a press conference that talks on technical issues, which had up to now been discussed at direct negotiations between Belgrade and Pristina in Vienna, would precede negotiations on the final status of the UN-administered province.
Ahtisaari highlighted the issue of decentralisation of Kosovo, saying that it would create better living conditions in the province.
The UN official called on the Serb minority to join in the work of Kosovo institutions, stressing that it was the best way for them to exercise their rights.
Ahtisaari was due to visit Mitrovica on Sunday and hold a press conference at the end of his three-day visit.