Japan recognized Kosovo as an independent state March 18, amid reports of the worst violent clashes in the region since it declared independence from Serbia a month ago.

"Japan hopes that Kosovo's independence will contribute to the stability of the region in the long term," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement, adding that Tokyo wished to continue friendly ties with Serbia.

Japan joins 25 other countries, including Britain and the United States, in recognizing an independent Kosovo, according to the ministry.