The search for a diplomatic solution New envoy President Ahtisaari is mediating between the US and Russia By Diplomatic Correspondent Barnaby Mason Diplomatic efforts to find a political solution to the Kosovo conflict have been intensifying. Germany and Italy have backed a central role for the United Nations Security Council. German Chancellor Gerhard Schr der, after talks in Bari with the Italian Prime Minister, Massimo D'Alema, said a new Security Council resolution could pave the way to a suspension of Nato's bombing campaign.
British officials say various options for a pause in the air strikes are being discussed.
Kosovo But efforts are being stepped up to draw up a Security Council resolution fleshing out principles for a Kosovo settlement. Senior officials of the G8 big power grouping, including Russia, will meet in Germany on Wednesday to continue work on a draft text and on what British officials call a road map - that is, a schedule of the next steps to be taken. Prime Minister D'Alema was more definite - there would be a temporary halt if the resolution was passed. He emphasised the importance of giving back a central role to the Security Council. British officials said there were various options and views being considered.