Pristina - Kosovo President Fatmir Sejdiu signed on Wednesday a decree to open nine embassies around the world, the latest bid to lock in symbols of statehood.

Missions in the capitals of the United States, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland and Albania will be established at the embassy level, Sejdiu said in a statement.

The decision was based on Kosovo's new constitution, which was formally put into effect Sunday.

Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in February and was recognized by more than 40 countries, including United States and most European countries. Serbia, backed notably by Russia, says the declaration of independence is illegal. (dpa)