Kosovo’s political leaders say they have a list of dozens of countries ready to recognise the province’s independence from Serbia.

Latest media reports in Kosovo suggest a declaration of unilateral independence is expected on February 17.

“Fear and threats in Kosovo and upon Kosovo’s people ended 10 years ago,” said Prime Minister Hashim Thaci. “I can only confirm that today we have the confirmation from some 100 countries that say they are ready to recognise Kosovo’s independence.”

Thaci has made it clear the timing of the announcement is being carefully coordinated with the US and European nations that back independence.

NATO forces and an EU police and judicial mission would operate in an independent Kosovo, amid fears of possible unrest between minority Serbs and ethnic Albanians.

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