The cabinet of Italy's outgoing Premier Romano Prodi on Thursday gave its green light to the recognition of Kosovo as an independent state, according to Italian News Agency ANSA.
Speaking to the press after the decision, Prodi said all ministers voted in favor with the exception of Welfare Minister Paolo Ferrero of Communist Refoundation.
In announcing the decision, Prodi stressed that "the recognition of Kosovo's independence is not against Serbia, with which Italy has and will continue to have a relationship based on friendship and affection."
"Italy has always been on the side of those who want Serbia to join the European Union as quickly as possible because Serbia is a great nation," the premier added.
According to Italian Foreign Minister Massimo D'Alema, Italy's recognition of Kosovo's independence "was not a decision motivated by hostility."
Turning his attention to Italy's presence in a new European Union mission in Kosovo, D'Alema observed "Italy's presence in the Balkan is an element of moderation and a guarantee for all."
Italy is a lead player in the EU mission in Kosovo which is aimed at maintaining civil law and order in the breakaway province after it declared independence.
The mission replaces a similar one which has been run by the United Nations over the past nine years.
Serbia's Ambassador to Italy has been recalled and a letter of protest has been sent to Rome over its decision to recognize the independence of the breakaway province of Kosovo, Serbian Foreign Minister Vuk Yeremic confirmed on Thursday.
Kosovo unilaterally declared its independence on Sunday.
Source:Xinhua
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