OSLO, Norway: The Norwegian government on Friday announced its official recognition of Kosovo as an independent nation, and said it will take steps to establish diplomatic relations.
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia on Feb. 17, and Norway announced its intention to recognize it as a new country on Feb. 20. Friday's Cabinet decision formalizes that recognition of the predominantly ethnic Albania territory.
A brief statement said Norway considers an independent Kosovo to be legally bound to guarantee the human rights of its minority Serb population, and to protect religious and cultural heritage, especially that of the Serbian Orthodox church.
Serbia has strongly protested Kosovo's declaration of independence, which it claims is invalid under international law.
The United States and major European Union powers have recognized Kosovo's independence. (IHT)
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