He thus confirmed the position of foreign ministry political directors of Contact Group countries that Kosovo's independence was not ruled out as a possibility for the solution to the province's status.
Gowan said major effort was being invested in determining Kosovo's final status, but added this called for greater commitment on the part of Kosovo politicians.
He was speaking to the press after talks with Kosovo Prime Minister Bajram Kosumi about current developments in the UN-administered province and its efforts to meet standards. A positive evaluation of the latter will enable the opening of talks on the final status.
Gowan said Great Britain was still considering the possibility of taking the leading part in the talks on the final status of Kosovo.