Japan recognizes Kosovo`s independence

Tokyo (ANTARA News/Kyodo) - Japan recognized Kosovo`s independence Tuesday, with Foreign Minister Masahiko Komura expressing hope that it contributes to long-term stability in the Balkan region.

Speaking to reporters after the Cabinet endorsed the decision, Komura said

Japan hopes to continue its friendly relations with Serbia, which has

"traditionally been a good friend of Japan."

The announcement came a month after Kosovo`s parliament declared the province`s

independence from Serbia Feb. 17 with the support of the United States and many

European Union members despite staunch opposition from Serbia and Russia.

Japanese government sources said earlier that Japan did not want to immediately

recognize Kosovo because Tokyo wants to avoid angering Serbia and Russia.

With about 90 percent of its population ethnic Albanians, Kosovo had been under

the control of the United Nations and North Atlantic Treaty Organization since

1999. (*)