Kosovo's historic declaration of independence
At 15.35 local time, Kosovo's Prime Minister Hashim Thaci formally proposed his declaration of independence to MPs in parliament.
He asked members to approve the creation of "a democratic, secular and multi-ethnic republic, conforming to the principles of non-discrimination and equality for all."
He added:
"We are committed to respecting the plan of Marti Ahtisaari, by adopting his text as a basis for the future of Kosovo. Our culture and our history are linked to Europe. And for the future of Kosovo we will unite our efforts so that one day we will find our place within the grand family of Europe. We deeply hope to create good, friendly relations with all our neighbours, including Serbia."
His proposal was greeted with applause by the 109 members present in parliament.
Then, at 15.49, they voted with a show of hands.
Not one arm was raised when the speaker asked if anyone opposed the declaration.
Kosovo had once already made a unilateral declaration of independence in the early 1990s.
Albania was the only country to recognise it.
This time however, Kosovo can count on the support of the West.
